Despite a cold start to the week, the weather is expected to clear up a bit just in time for another exciting weekend in Joburg. Take your pick from a timeless ballet to indoor and outdoor markets, music awards, health and wellness events, live jazz and classical music sessions, movie premieres and more.
Wines of Elgin Tasting Event
Wines of Elgin is bringing their signature ‘cool climate’ wine farms from the Cape Winelands to the North for a pop-up wine tasting this week.
This tasting session takes place at Proud Mary in the hub of Rosebank, and ticketholders can look forward to meeting Elgin’s top winemakers and sommeliers, tasting a variety of well-respected offerings and discovering what makes their wines so exceptional.
The tastings are complemented with carefully crafted canapés to pair and enhance your wine experience perfectly. Booking is essential as space is limited.
Cost: R475pp, book via Quicket
When: Wednesday, 12 August from 7pm to 9pm
Where: Proud Mary, 29 Tyrwhitt Ave, Rosebank
JPO’s Early Spring Symphony Season opening concert
Kicking off the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s (JPO) Early Spring Symphony Season this 2026 is conductor Barbara Dragan with piano soloist Zlata Chochieva.
Barbara Dragan is an accomplished conductor, recognised for her intellectual curiosity and rigorous approach to musical architecture.
Pianist Zlata Chochieva is celebrated worldwide by critics and audiences alike as one of the most extraordinary artists of her generation. She made her first stage appearance at the age of four and gave her orchestral debut just three years later, performing a Mozart concerto at the Grand Hall of the Moscow State Conservatory.
The concert showcases Zlata’s techniques, Barbara’s masterful conduction and the JPO’s versatility with Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings, Op. 4 in C Major, and Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 83 in B-flat Major.
Cost: From R190pp, book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 13 August at 7.30pm. Pre-concert talks start at 6.30pm and last about 45-minurs si6
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
Check out the full season schedule
The Only Whisky Show
The Only Whisky Show is bringing over 100 premium whiskies to whisky connoisseurs and appreciators alike this weekend in Sandton.
Up to 1000 guests (500 on each night) get the opportunity to taste up to 150 premium whiskies. The range of whiskies up for tasting include a wide variety of peated and unpeated, single malt and grain, cask strength and small batch samples from across the globe.
For those who want to go beyond just tastings, The Only Whisky Show has organised three major 75-minute masterclass experiences (limited to 25 people each) which can each be booked at an extra R200 per person.
Cost: R690pp (entry and tastings); R200pp (per masterclass). Book online
When: Thursday and Friday, 13 and 14 August. From 6pm to 10pm each evening
Where: The Galleria, 10 Eastern Service Rd, Eastgate, Sandton
Get the details on the whiskies making an appearance + the masterclasses
Clearwater Mall’s Made in India Market
For a third time, Clearwater Mall transforms the Upper Mall Parking Area into a lively explosion of colour, flavour and style with the Made in India Market.
The Made in India Market blends street food, fashion, footwear and accessories into a shopping event that’s lively, inclusive and rich in personality.
The market will feature vendors hailing from India, presenting an eclectic mix of stalls offering bold bites, handmade fashion, statement accessories and unique finds, all rooted in Indian heritage.
Cost: R10pp. Pay at entrance
When: Running from 8 to 23 August. Open daily from 10am to 8pm
Where: Clearwater Mall Upper Mall Parking Area, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort
Sankayi Jazz Series presents Titi Luzipo
Week two of the August Sankayi Jazz Series sees powerful vocalist and captivating performer Titi Luzipo take to the stage.
Titi is regarded as one of South Africa’s most celebrated jazz and Afro-soul vocalists, renowned for blending jazz, African traditions and contemporary influences into deeply expressive and soulful performances that have captivated audiences both locally and internationally.
Whether performing original compositions or reimagining beloved songs, she brings warmth, depth and extraordinary musicianship to every performance. Prepare for an unforgettable evening with one of South Africa’s finest vocal talents.
Cost: From R400pp. It is recommended that you arrive early to have dinner (at an additional cost) before the concert. Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 14 August. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
See who else is taking the Sankayi stage this August
The Wedge Road Race
The Wedge Road Race returns with another 5km and 10km running event this weekend in Morningside.
The road routes lead you through the scenic and suburban parts of Morningside and feature refreshment stations every 3km. There are also a range of exciting activities at the race, including food and drink to keep everyone entertained, so bring the family and friends along.
In addition to the race, The Wedge is launching a shoe drive. Attendees are encouraged to donate any pre-loved shoes they no longer need at the Exhibitions Parking Lot, located near the Samsung store, after the race.
Online entries close on Tuesday, 11 August. Late entries are only done in-person at the race venue on Friday, 14 August from 3pm to 6pm and Saturday, 15 August from 6am to 6.45am.
Cost: R60pp for 5km run; R130pp for 10km run (R100 per entrant aged 60 to 79); R60 for a temporary running license. Entrants aged 80 and up can enter either race for free. Enter online
When: The race takes place on Saturday, 15 August. 10km starts at 7am; 5km starts at 5km
Where: Meet at The Wedge Shopping Centre, 255 Rivonia Rd, Morningside, Sandton
Find out more important race information
Sankayi Saturday Sessions – Afrikan Rekord: DJ Bob with special guest Zviko Dryad
Week two of the August edition of the Sankayi Saturday Sessions features DJ Bob and fellow vinyl DJ, Zviko Dryad. A seamless blender of genres, she is set to offer a sonic journey through a variety of sounds alongside veteran, DJ Bob.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday, 15 August from 6pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
See the full Saturday sessions schedule this August
Award-winning ‘Sunny Dancer’ releases in cinemas
Sunny Dancer follows a 17-year-old named Ivy (Bella Ramsey, Game of Thrones and The Last of Us), who after beating cancer, is sent by her well-intentioned parents to a summer camp for kids affected by cancer, where she has a hard time adjusting to the rules.
The film is a must-watch by rising directorial talent George Jaques (Black Dog). Sunny Dancer has already earned the Emden Film Award for Best Film as well as the Wolfgang Peterson Prize for Best Film along with more nominations.
When: The film opens in cinemas on Friday, 14 August
Where: Sunny Dancer will be available to watch in Nu Metro and Ster Kinekor cinemas nationwide
Find out more about this coming-of-age film
Storytelling circle/gathering: Food as Memory
This circle creates a shared space where participants come together to exchange personal experiences and stories rooted in indigenous food and communal traditions around food.
Through storytelling and dialogue, unpack the cross-generational impact of knowledge sharing, the preservation of food traditions, stories, and land, and how to create access in spaces that are not always accessible.
Ntombekhaya Tisani holds the space and guides you through the session. The conversation is sparked with Vho-Mphatheleni Makaulule’s voice, who is an environmental activist, defender of sacred sites and researcher in the transfer of indigenous knowledge to future generations.
The gathering invites everyone to join the Family Table with a selection of indigenous food creations by Chef Noni. The invited DJ, Zviko, contributes a sonic vinyl experience, weaving together sounds and memories to awaken nostalgia and inspire conversation.
Guests are also invited to bring and share a dish that best encapsulates and sparks their memory (not a must).
Cost: Free entry. RSVP at [email protected]
When: Saturday, 15 August from 2pm to 6pm
Where: The Forge, Ground Floor, 87 De Korte St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
The Almond Blossom Festival at Field Berry Farm
The Almond Blossom Festival is built around the highlight of the season: a 1.5km self-guided blossom trail winding through the almond trees.
Along the way, visitors discover stations featuring Japanese poetry and art, with the chance to fold their own origami masterpiece step by step, ending with a completed piece to take home.
The walk takes about half an hour and requires no special fitness level, though comfortable shoes are advised for uneven ground. For those wishing to explore further, a brand-new 5km farm trail offers birdwatching and scenic views at a leisurely pace.
Cost: R60pp for adults and R50pp for kids. Book online. Entry will be limited to guests with confirmed bookings only.
When: Friday and Saturday, 15 and 16 August. From 9am to 3pm
Where: The Field Berry Farm, De Deur, 1876 Walkerville
Everybody Loves Sundays: Kabza de Small
Everybody Loves Sundays is a music series that blends deep, soulful house with a relaxed outdoor vibe, where guests socialise and listen to sets by prominent South African DJs.
This edition of the series features a special Afro-house set from Kabza De Small. The SAMA-award-winning DJ is known for his deep, soulful sound and strong connection with the crowd, and guests can expect a set packed with rich melodies and the energy that has made one half of the Scorpion Kings one of South Africa’s most celebrated performers.
Cost: R119pp to R349pp (general access); R3000 to R8000 (VIP tables). Book via Quicket.
When: Sunday, 16 August from 1pm and 10pm
Where: Maracanà, 58 Wierda Rd E, Wierda Valley, Sandton
Last shows of the season! The Rocky Horror Show
The legendary cult musical The Rocky Horror Show, is set to light up the Joburg stage for a few more shows this winter.
From the moment sweethearts Brad and Janet experience a stormy night, a flat tyre and a detour to a mysterious castle, audiences are swept into a world where nothing is quite what it seems and everything is possible.
Inside the castle, they encounter the charismatic, corset-clad “sweet transvestite” Dr Frank-N-Furter, his eccentric household and the muscle-bound creation Rocky, brought to life in a riot of glitter, glam and guitar riffs.
What unfolds is a deliciously subversive journey of transformation, temptation and self-realisation fuelled by rock anthems including ‘Time Warp’, ‘Sweet Transvestite’ and ‘Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul’.
Cost: R200pp to R495pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 12 June to 16 August | Wednesday to Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 3pm and 8pm; Sunday at 2pm and 6pm
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Wikipedia Meetup
Wikipedia meetups are community gatherings where Wikipedians and other Wikimedians come together to socialise, collaborate, and work toward the shared goal of improving free knowledge.
At the Goethe-Institut edition of the meetup, participants focus on discussions around:
- Wikimedia South Africa, its work, programmes, and current projects within the chapter and the larger Wikimedia movement.
- Activities and developments happening locally, across Africa, and internationally within Wikimedia.
- Open conversations and Q&A about Wikipedia and its sister projects.
Cost: Free entry. Email [email protected] for more information
When: Saturday, 15 August from 10.30am to 12.30pm
Where: Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg
Discover the rest of the Goethe-Institut’s August events
An Idiot’s Guide To Wine
An Idiot’s Guide to Wine is an Australian 70-minute sensation that blends comedy with wine tasting.
The event features a professional stand-up comedy show paired with a curated tasting of six completely different wines from around the globe. The show is written by Merrick Watts, who holds a WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) Level 3 qualification, so guests receive real knowledge about wine while enjoying the comedy.
The ticket provides access to the stand-up show and to all six distinct wine samples. Non-alcoholic alternatives are available for an additional fee.
Cost: R610pp to R810pp, book online
When: Friday, 14 August from 6pm and 8.30pm
Where: Hard Rock Cafe, 10 & 10A, Mandela Square, 8 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Check out more wonderful wine events
Phenomenal Women Winter Harvest Picnic
Phenomenal Women is an annual cultural and artistic event celebrating Women’s Day, inspired by Maya Angelou’s famous poem “Phenomenal Woman”.
In this year’s edition, the Nirox Lawn Pavilion Lounge hosts a harvest-style picnic on the lawns. The event includes a self-constructed picnic-inspired set menu built from an abundant harvest table where guests are able to pick and choose from, offered in two sizes, throughout the day.
The entertainment lineup features DJs Deniece Marz and Nelee, with AusTebza on bass, as well as spoken word by Noxolo Desire, in tribute to Maya Angelou.
The beverage choices include Whispering Angel, the world’s leading premium Provence rosé, produced by Château d’Esclans in the South of France, and Bernie’s Bar, who joins the day with spirits, wine, and everything in between.
Cost: R350pp; R80 per child u/12. Book via Howler
When: Sunday, 16 August from 10am to 5.30pm
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, R540 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
Comedy in the Park
Each third Saturday of the month, Comedy in the Park invites audiences to experience an uplifting and hilarious comedy show to combat the mid-month blues.
This Saturday features sets by comedians Dave Levinsohn, Mbali Gudazi, Hannes Brummer and Joey Rasdien. From 5pm, the pop-up restaurant opens for a delicious pre-show meal as well as drinks on sale.
No u/16s are allowed.
Cost: R180pp; R120pp (pensioners)
When: Saturday, 15 August from 5pm to 9pm. Show starts at 7pm
Where: The Whirlwind Theatre, Delta Park, Intersection of Rd No. 3 &, Rd No 5, Victory Park, Randburg
Mzansi Chamber Collective presents Odeion String Quartet
The all-female Odeion String Quartet has performed to critical acclaim and will perform music by Beethoven, Feder and Päge this weekend.
Beethoven’s 2nd quartet of the “Razumovsky” set is named after the Russian Count of the same name and has set a new standard for the future of string quartet writing.
Arthur Feder is an eminent, young South African composer, who was recently commissioned by the Odeion String Quartet (OSQ) to write his 3rd string quartet, “The Tides Of…”; to be performed on the Quartet of Peace Instruments, of which the OSQ are custodians.
This brilliant, evocative new work represents and tells the story of the four Nobel Peace Prize Laureates of South Africa. The Quartet of Peace instruments, each of which represents one of these four important South African figures.
The programme also includes the world premiére of a work by Motshane Pege, specially commissioned for the Odeion String Quartet by the Mzansi Chamber Music Collective.
Cost: R275pp; R225pp for pensioners and students. Book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 16 August from 3pm to 5pm
Where: Northwards House, 21 Rockridge Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg
Saturday Night Fitness
Saturday Night Fitness is helping South Africans take their fitness journey to the next level with a night designed to celebrate empowerment, community, and strength in all its forms.
Expect high-energy strength workouts to build power and endurance, game-changing stability training to boost core control and prevent injury, balance drills that create a rock-solid foundation, and a body-positive, woman-powered space where all fitness levels are welcome.
Cost: R390pp; R350pp (discounted double ticket). Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 15 August from 2pm to 9pm
Where: Montecasino Outdoor Events Area, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
Cirque du Rave
Step up to the Cirque du Rave for the most electrifying fusion of circus spectacle and rave chaos you’ve ever experienced. This isn’t just a party – it’s a carnival of sound, light and energy.
Guests can expect a night featuring a high-energy carnival where underground music collides with theatrical performances. Throughout the evening, visitors are exposed to immersive production, circus performances and world-class DJs curating high-energy dance music to carry them through the night.
Cost: From R300pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 15 August from 8.30pm to 1.30am
Where: Sognage, 304 Tungsten Rd, Strydompark, Johannesburg
Worlds Away – A Journey to Circusland
Be transported into a realm of mystery, wonder, thrills and fantasy with Worlds Away – an exquisite family-friendly show for all ages to enjoy.
Follow our little star’s courageous journey through fantastical lands, tempestuous oceans and fiery fortresses in order to seek that which will truly make him shine.
This captivating tale of love and friendship provides a feast for the eyes and promises to enthrall in every scene.
Cost: R200pp to R300pp, book online
When: Running from 27 June to 16 August. Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm (Limited Fridays at 7pm)
Where: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre, Weltervreden Road and Beyers Naude, Randburg
The South African Music Awards 2026
Hosted by rapper and multi-SAMA award-winning musician Cassper Nyovest and Zanele Potelwa, the South African Music Awards celebrate the artists, sounds, and stories shaping South African music, honouring excellence while powering music culture.
Cost: From R595pp, book via Ticketpro.
When: Saturday, 15 August from 8pm to 10.30pm
Where: Sun City Superbowl, R556
Vodacom Bulls vs All Blacks
The Pretoria-based Vodacom Bulls clash with the three-time world champion All Blacks during The Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour – an historic eight-match series featuring four provincial matches and four Test matches.
The Bulls are one of the few provincial and club teams in the world to have defeated the All Blacks on two separate occasions.
Park and Ride tickets are available for the match.
Cost: From R250pp to R1350pp, book online
When: Saturday, 15 August. Gates open from 2pm. Kick off is at 7pm
Where: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, 416 Kirkness St, Arcadia, Pretoria
Rachel Kolisi Documentary Screening
Rachel Kolisi’s Falling Forward Documentary Roadshow returns for its second national tour across South Africa.
The event invites guests to experience both a screening of the author’s documentary and a curated marketplace showcasing incredible female-owned businesses, products, and brands. Visitors are encouraged to indulge in special surprises, samples, and experiences from the event’s partners throughout the evening, including Gloot, Pan Macmillan, and Jetour.
Following the market, attendees are shown the Falling Forward documentary – an intimate and deeply personal film following Rachel Kolisi through the defining seasons of her life, including identity, loss, healing, motherhood, courage, faith, and rediscovery.
Following the screening, Rachel takes to the stage for a candid fireside conversation, unpacking the themes of the documentary and sharing insights on resilience, purpose, faith, and moving forward.
Cost: R295pp, book via Webtickets
When: Wednesday, 12 August from 5.30pm, screening begins at 6.45pm
Where: Capital City Church International (3CI), 56 Saal Street, Pretoria
