Whether its outdoor adventure, or indoor entertainment you seek, the 2024 selection of April events offers something for everybody. From thrilling theme parks to melodic live music acts, intimate and enchanting dining and drinking experiences, exciting sports lineups and more, there is no shortage of fun to be had as we usher in the Autumn season.
Rand Show: Music, rollercoasters, crafts, and fun for all ages
The Rand Show has been a staple annual tradition in South Africa, inviting thousands to celebrate the Easter Weekend together at the show. The event is great for the entire family, with something for everyone to enjoy.
For the kids, there will be a Kids Hall, with its Candy Land theme and exciting activities. The adults can also have their share of fun at the Craft Area, where they can indulge in locally crafted drinks. They will also get to listen to local musical acts as they enjoy their expertly crafted drinks.
More music can be enjoyed by children, teenagers and adults alike at the events Main Stage, where more South African acts can be caught moving people to their feet.
Cost: Free – R320pp, book via Ticketpro
When: 28 Mar – 1 Apr, 9am to 7pm daily
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, (NASREC), Corner Nasrec Road & Randshow Road, Johannesburg
Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic
This unforgettable night of rock music showcases the greatest hits and biggest rock anthems performed by the ‘Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic’ ensemble, along with the Rock Symphony Orchestra. The audience gets to be immersed in the spectacle, grandeur and energy of one of the world’s greatest rock bands as though they were witnessing the real thing.
Showtime Australia’s Warren Vernon-Driscoll performs the lead vocals, guitar and piano live on stage in Freddie’s original key, and with all the wit, charm and bravado of the legend himself. South African, Rusty Red takes on the famous guitar riffs of Brian May, Michael Dickens conjures Roger Taylor on drums and Andre van der Merwe is John Deacon on bass guitar.
Cost: R180pp – R390pp, book via Webtickets
When: 5 to 7 Apr | 12 to 14 Apr | Various shows at 2pm, 3pm and/or 8pm
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels: Reggae, afro-pop and soul from one of SA’s top bands
The Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace welcomes the iconic South African music group, Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels, for an electrifying performance. This dynamic group is renowned for their infectious and signature blend of reggae, afro-pop and soul, and this concert promises an unforgettable night of music, dance and joy.
From their chart-topping hits to their dynamic live performances, the band continues to captivate audiences of all ages with their irresistible rhythms and charisma. In addition to their classic hits including “Pretty Belinda”, “If You Want To Be Happy” and “I Love to Truck”, fans can expect to hear many other album hits.
Cost: R150pp – R250pp, book via Ticketpro
When: 6 Apr, 8pm to midnight
Where: Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg
Irene Festival of Running: A running festival featuring four competitive categories
Irene’s annual Running Festival returns with four competitive categories, entertainment and prizes. The festival features a 48km ultra marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km road run and a 5km fun run. Athletes of various capabilities can participate in one of these races over the two-day festival.
The first day is dedicated to the 5km, 10km and 21.1km runs, whilst the second day is reserved entirely for the ultra marathon. Participants can purchase event t-shirts online, and all athletes earn a medal upon completion of their races. Three prize givings are held over both days, awarding the top finishers for the 10km, 21.1km, and 48km races with cash prizes.
Cost: R60pp – R480pp, enter via Entry Ninja
When: 6 to 7 Apr | 6 Apr, start time 6am (half marathon, 10km) & 6.15am (5km) | 7 Apr, start time 6am (ultra marathon)
Where: Irene Athletics Club Race Venue, Doringkloof, Centurion
House Of Suntory Masterclasses & Tasting: Celebrate and be immersed in Japanese culture
House of Suntory warmly invites attendees to immerse themselves in a delightful sensory journey, capturing the essence of Japanese culture during the cherry blossom season. This is a unique opportunity to revel in the splendour of cherry blossoms in local land through an exclusive pop-up tasting installation.
The pop-up is rooted in the three pillars of Suntory – WA (being in harmony with Japanese nature), Omotenashi (experiences of Japanese hospitality and culture) and Monozukuri (Japanese craftsmanship). It creates an immersive experience where visitors physically and digitally step into the essence of Brand Japan. The lineup includes a comprehensive programme of tastings and masterclasses.
Cost: From R1 200pp, book via Quicket
When: Every Saturday of the month, 11am to 1pm
Where: The House of Suntory Installation, Hyde Park Corner, Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg
A Night of Elegant Enchantment: SecretEATS presents a secret evening of culinary delights
A SecretEATS evening isn’t just any ordinary dinner party – it’s a social soiree bringing together the very best in food, drink and fun with friends. The evening begins with a welcome drink on arrival and some canapes to kick things off.
Enjoy course after course of gourmet goodness prepared by Secret Eats’ professional, classically trained Secret chef. All you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your evening. Perfectly paired wines complement each course and help the conversation flow as guests meet, mix and mingle to create an evening of magic.
There are also a few Secrets and surprises lined up to make sure this #SecretDinner is simply sensational.
Cost: R1550pp, book via SecretEATS
When: 12 & 13 Apr, 7pm to 10pm
Where: The secret venue is revealed the morning of the dinner.
The Annual Roller Derby Tournament: Some hard-hitting roller-skating action
Golden City Rollers (GCR) roller derby league takes to the track again for its annual Home Season with some hard-hitting roller-skating action. GCR is proud and excited to once again showcase the best of local roller derby to their home crowd. Its two home teams, Chrome Chaos and Mercury Mayhem, battle it out over three games, the second of which takes place in April.
GCR is the undefeated national champion of the sport in South Africa, having won every National Derby Festival since the inception of this national tournament in 2016. The two competing teams feature both veteran and newer skaters. Games take place once a month in March, April and May in the form of a best-out-of-three battle.
Cost: R80pp – R250pp, book via Golden City Rollers or purchase at the door
When: 13 Apr (game 2), 6pm (doors open at 5pm)
Where: União Portuguesa, 64 Eastwood Street, Turffontein, Johannesburg
Jim Jefferies: Give ‘Em What They Want
Australian comedy legend, Jim Jefferies brings his ‘Give ‘Em What They Want’ tour to South Africa. This Sydney native is one of the most popular and respected comedians of his generation, entertaining audiences across the globe with his provocative, belief-challenging, and thought-provoking comedy.
Jefferies was honoured as Stand-Up Comedian of the Year at the Just for Laughs Festival in summer 2019. His latest show, ‘Give ‘Em What They Want’, started at the end of 2022 with dates all around Asia, Europe and North America. Now, he brings his comedic stylings to Africa.
No U/16s are allowed entry. VIP ticket holders will get the chance for a meet-and-greet with the comedian himself.
Cost: R795pp – R3660pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: 13 Apr, 8pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Times Square, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Abdullah Ibrahim: The South African jazz icon on tour
One of South Africa’s most distinguished pianists and internationally respected master musicians, Abdullah Ibrahim, returns home to South Africa after a five-year absence to give a series of landmark concerts. Throughout his career, Ibrahim has performed with the greatest names to ever emerge from South Africa’s legendary jazz scene including his work with Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, Jonas Gwangwa, Kippie Moeketsi and many more.
The concerts form part of a world tour for him as he performs around the world, visiting cities and cultures that in their time were pivotal in his exiled life. The limited events include a performance in Pretoria.
Cost: R900pp – R2500pp, book via Ticketpro
When: 14 Apr, from 3.30pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark: Synth pioneers on tour
Following the announcement of their forthcoming studio album, English electronic band and synth pioneers, Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD), take their newest set on tour, stopping in South Africa this April. Their new album sees the band’s most explicitly political record.
A broad, electronic, sonic masterpiece that lyrically tackles the topics of the future, the album was predominantly written, recorded, and mixed by OMD frontman Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys. Now, South African fans get to witness their electronic innovation live.
Cost: R675pp – R795pp | R1 195pp (VIP), book via Howler
When: 20 Apr, 1pm to 8pm
Where: Marks Park Sports Fields, Judith Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg
