First Thursdays in Johannesburg bring the city to life with a monthly roundup of art, culture, food and creativity. From vibrant gallery openings and immersive workshops to unique dining experiences and live music, the evening invites you to explore Johannesburg’s neighbourhoods in a whole new way.

Whether you’re looking for a stroll, a creative spark, or a night out with friends, First Thursdays offer something for everyone. Grab a map, hop on a TukTuk, and let the city surprise and inspire you. Here’s what’s in store.

What’s On at the Wits Art Museum and Origins Centre

NOW IS NOT FOREVER by Theresa-Anne Mackintosh at the Wits Art Museum

Theresa-Anne Mackintosh displays a collection of original works at the Wits Art Museum in an exhibition show titled NOW IS NOT FOREVER, bringing together sculpture, painting, and selected archival and studio materials spanning works created over three decades.

The exhibition traces various materials Mackintosh has used throughout her expansive career and foregrounds her long-standing engagement with the human figure and how she translates psychological, emotional, and relational states through form.

While she has made use of various mediums in her artistic practice, Mackintosh remains committed to painting as the core of her practice, and this exhibition situates Mackintosh’s painterly practice alongside her sculptural works.

Cost: Free entry

When: Opens on Thursday, 9 April at 6pm for 6.30pm. Thereafter, the exhibition runs during the Art Museum’s opening hours, which are: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm
Where: Wits Art Museum, University of the Witwatersrand, Cnr Jorissen and Bertha St, Johannesburg

Atlas of Uncertainty at the Wits Origins Centre

Featuring 30 artists from Accra, Johannesburg, and Nairobi, this travelling exhibition changes how we see African cities. Atlas of Uncertainty is an interdisciplinary collaboration remapping migration and urban spaces across the continent and showing what that means for the world’s future cities.

Atlas of Uncertainty is a project of the Oxford/Wits Mobility Governance Lab and the African Centre for Migration and Society. Featured artists include Adlan Yousif, Alice Raymond, Amy-Leigh Braaf, Anastasia Pather, Angelina Kusi Hori, ASK, Austine Adika, Billie McTernan, Boitumelo Motau, Bongiwe Phakathi, Candice Kramer, Caroline Wanjiku Kihato, Clare Loveday, Clifford Assiama Bright-Abu, Daniel Muchina, Dela Anyah, DEVOLUTIONERY, Dorcas Omwenga, Jamey Ponte, Kibera Arts District, Lebo Thoka, Manjahi Njoroge, Mareli Stolp and Nana Danso Awuah-Asante.

More artists include Neo Muyanga, Onyis Martin, Peterson Kamwathi, Savior Omondi, Sean Kweifio-Okai, Sebawali Mwakai Sio, Sedinam Awo Tsegah, The Herd, Tracy Akinyi, Wallace Juma, Wezile Harmans Atlas Scholars + Writers Adeline Chum, Afra Foli, Barbara Bompani, Brett Pyper, Brian Murahwa, Carina Kanbi, Caroline Wanjiku Kihato, Danchen Xu, Dare Brawley, Elizabeth Iams Wellman, Heather Mason, Helidah Ogude-Chambert, Huda Tayob, Jeffrey Paller, Kabiri Bule, Kuukuwa Manful, Laura Kurgan, Loren B Landau, Margarida Waco, Mwangi Mwaura, Isaac Mburu, Neo Muyanga, Nicole Stremlau, Olasumbo Olaniyi, Ragi Bashonga, Shongile Myeza, Stacy Hardy, Tau Tavengwa, Thorsten Deckler, Tracy Haggai and Wangui Kimari.

Cost: R70 per adult, R40 per student. Book via Webtickets

When: Running from 18 April to 3 July 2026.
Where: Origins Centre, Wits University Braamfontein Campus East, Yale Road & 1 Enoch Sontonga Ave, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Experiences and events this First Thursday

Mzansi Comedy Club Launch

The launch of the Mzansi Comedy Club features some of South Africa’s funniest rising and established comedians.

The evening is hosted by South African stand-up comedian Thabiso Mhlongo and YFM radio jockey Tulz Madala, and guests can expect a night filled with fresh jokes, big personalities, unexpected moments, and non-stop laughter. There’s also a stylish ambience, great music and a vibrant after-hours atmosphere.

The event takes place in a sophisticated setting alongside people who appreciate both humour and experience, and more than just another comedy show, it is the beginning of something special for South African comedy.

Cost: From R199pp, book via Howler

When: Thursday, 2 July from 6pm to midnight
Where: Maracana, 58 Wierda Rd, Wierda Valley, Sandown, Sandton

Disney’s The Lion King JR

National Children’s Theatre’s production of Disney’s The Lion King JR. brings the magic of one of the world’s best-loved stories to the stage, with iconic songs and breathtaking choreography. The production is brought to life with the raw, joyful talent of 51 extraordinary young performers aged 7 to 13.

The story follows Young Simba after the loss of his father, Mufasa. He flees the Pride Lands, haunted by guilt and pursued by his scheming uncle Scar. Yet, with the help of the irrepressible Timon and Pumbaa, and guided by the wisdom of those he loves, Simba discovers his true destiny.

The production is now in its third season, but is newly directed, choreographed, and entirely reimagined. It is led by Artistic Director Ivor Jones, directed by Game Bovana, and choreographed by Oscar Buthelezi, bringing fresh movement, energy, and vision to every scene, alongside vocal coaching by Ntambo Rapatla. Alongside the young cast, the choir of Donaldson Primary School adds a dimension of beauty and community that makes this production truly special.

Cost: From R150pp to R200pp, book via Quicket

When: Running from 2 July to 19 July, shows at 10.30am and 2.30pm
Where: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown, Johannesburg

More of the top stage shows in Joburg

The Melville Art Mile

The Melville Art Mile is back for its monthly celebration of Johannesburg’s bohemian heartland. This Thursday, the suburb opens its doors for a safe, walkable evening of colour, culture, and community.

The Art Mile have curated the best offerings across the precinct, from galleries and studios to heritage sites and night markets, creating a vibrant circuit of art and dining.

How to navigate the art

Follow the Lew Geffen Sotheby’s wayfinding arrows to discover hidden studios and live performances.

• White arrows: lead north to bamboo.
• Green arrows: lead west to mudroom.
• Pink arrows: lead south to die pienk kerk.

The entire route is secured by the Melville Security Initiative (MSI). Prefer a ride? Jump on one of the official tuk-tuks to zip between venues:

• Ticket holders (vip/explorer): unlimited free rides.
• General public: pay-as-you-go (R25 per trip).

Cost: R450pp for a premium guided tour including drinks, activities and a souvenir. R150pp for a self-guided tour with unlimited tuk-tuks. Free to explore on your own and pay-as-you-go. Book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 4pm to 9pm
Where: 27 Boxes, 76a 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg

Unlimited Wine Festival at Le Vin Wine Bar

First Thursdays takes on a global twist as Le Vin Wine Bar transforms into an immersive wine experience like no other. Explore new varietals from bold reds to smooth whites and refreshing rosés, and enjoy a beautifully relaxed evening surrounded by great company.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply looking for a vibrant night out in Rosebank, this is your invitation to sip, explore, and celebrate. Enjoy an unlimited festival tasting experience, giving you the freedom to journey through each wine at your own pace.

Live music sets the perfect atmosphere for sipping, mingling, and unwinding. From 9pm, the energy rises into an unforgettable after-party filled with music, dancing, and the signature First Thursdays vibe.

Cost: R350pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 6pm to midnight
Where: Le Vin Rosebank, Rosebank Quarter, 9 Walters St, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Abathwebuli Trio at Hugh’s Jazz Club

Hugh’s Jazz Bar is a new space created in deep tribute to the life and legacy of Hugh Masekela, where his spirit lives on in every note played, every conversation shared, and every memory made within its walls.

The bar opens on Thursday nights only, offering an intimate setting for exceptional live jazz. This evening features Abathwebuli, a trio consisting of sideman saxophonist and flautist Mthunzi Mvubu, third-generation percussionist Gontse Makhene and South African bassist Dalisu Ndlazi.

Abathwebuli was established by some of South Africa’s most sought-after musicians and together embody a potent energy, weaving a sonic tapestry of African rhythms and ancestral chants.

Cost: R300pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 6pm to 11pm
Where: 13th Floor, 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Keyes Art Night at Keyes Art Mile

This Keyes Art Night begins with a city still being imagined.

In the Atrium, the Makers Table, in collaboration with Johannesburg In Your Pocket and Open Window, invites you to work directly with archival photographs from Marc Latilla’s Johannesburg Then and Now. Hand-colour, collage, draw, and reimagine the city through your own lens, from impossible futures to deeply personal interventions.

In Gallery 1, Groundwork enters its final weeks. Spend time with an exhibition shaped by stone, dust, carbon, and clay, and the questions they leave behind about construction, memory, and time.

And just around the corner at CIRCA Gallery, Bag Factory Art marks 35 years with When We Gather…the ordinary becomes extraordinary – a fundraising group exhibition bringing together alumni and current artists from three and a half decades of studio practice.

At Lizamore & Associates, A Small Kind of Magic brings together Rosemary Marriott, Moloko Mabotja and Jenny Nijenhuis in a quiet exploration of identity, memory and the things we absorb before we have language for them.

At BKhz, Stephen Tebogo Langa opens Until Love Makes Sense – paintings that hold love in uncertain, shifting moments, somewhere between thought and feeling.

Cost: Free entry, food and drink for your own account

When: Thursday, 2 July from 6pm
Where: Keyes Art Mile, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Travelling Date Night at Indaba Hotel

Warm evenings call for romance, adventure, and a little indulgence. Join Indaba Hotel on the First Thursday of every month for an unforgettable 4-stop dining journey across the Hotel property:

• Sundowner cocktail and canapés at the Gin School
• Do dinner and a glass of wine at Epsom Restaurant
• Dessert and bubbly at the Indaba Tasting Room
• End with fire-side s’mores and a nightcap in the Courtyard

Cost: R785 per couple, book via email at [email protected]

When: First Thursday of every month
Where: Indaba Hotel, cnr. Winnie Mandela Drive & Pieter Wenning Rd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Boots & Yeehaw Ladies Night

The Milk Bar hosts a lively evening of line dancing, laughter, wood fires, cowboy hats, and great company, exclusively for women.

Ladies, it’s time to let your hair down and dance the night away! Join us at

Line dancing coach Riaan leads the evening by teaching a brand-new line dancing routine, a popular international dance, and the latest trending YouTube dance move.

The ticket includes a welcome drink and a line dancing session, with food and drink specials available all night.

Cost: R150pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Where: Milk Bar Parkmore, 11 Holt St, East, Sandton

Venturo Game Night at Shooters in Fourways

Venturo Game Night is back, and this time they’ve found a new playground: Shooters in Fourways. Swing by after work with friends or colleagues, or go solo and make new ones. Entry is free, the vibe is easy, and Shooters has a solid food menu ready for when the hunger hits. Expect a mix of classic favourites, fast-paced party games and plenty of laughs across the tables.

Cost: Free entry

When: First Thursday of every month, from 6pm to 11pm
Where: Shop F13, Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Fourways, Sandton

Stained Glass Paint Night

The Pisces Glass Studio hosts a creative and relaxing glass painting evening where guests transform an ordinary glass bottle into a beautiful, hand-painted keepsake.

The event provides all materials and creates a vibrant atmosphere where beginners and seasoned creatives can order delicious food and drinks, have fun, socialise, and stay inspired. fun, social, and inspiring.

Cost: R480pp, book via Quicket

When: First Thursday of every month, from 6pm to 9pm
Where: The Noble Experiment, Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Johannesburg

Let’s Talk & Rave: Womxn Building Culture

Raving in Johannesburg are a creative agency that curates safe, diverse, and welcoming environments, routinely hosting panel talks and art exhibitions.

This edition brings together four incredible creatives whose work spans architecture, music, education, sound art, event production, and community building. They include qualified architect and international DJ, Thelma Ndebele, anti-disciplinary artist, producer and DJ, Loving Parents, events coordinator and founder of Love Infinity Media, DJ Teedo Love, and influential figure, DJ Illing.

The evening explores what it means to build culture in Johannesburg, sharing honest stories about creativity, collaboration, leadership, and the realities of making a life in the arts.

Cost: Free entry before 8pm and R80pp onwards. Book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 7pm to 2am
Where: Smoking Kills, 78a Avenue, 4th Ave, Melville

Brushes & Beats: RnB Paint & Sip

This curated social experience blends music and creativity, featuring smooth RnB tunes throughout the evening as guests explore their creativity through guided painting.

There’s also great food and refreshing drinks in a room full of good energy.

Cost: R225pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 2 July from 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: Byblos Hubbly Lounge, Corner 9th Ave &, Rivonia Blvd, Rivonia, Sandton