The scene is set for a spectacular celebration at these very popular music festivals in Johannesburg. Performed by local and international creatives and talent, these festivals have an awe-inspiring lineup of musical icons and DJs.
There’s a heart-pumping setting for all music lovers, from EDM and trance to jazz, and from Hip Hop to the chart-topping tracks performed by the superstars. Come and enjoy a night out with some of the top stars of the music scene and make it a night – or a weekend – to remember.
JANUARY 2025
Milk + Cookies Festival
Milk + Cookies Festival is an international music festival that brings a dynamic fusion of music, culture, style and tech experiences to South Africa for the first time! Both Joburg and Cape Town events will be headlined by the hottest name in music right now, DJ KAYTRANADA.
“We’re incredibly honoured to host the Milk + Cookies Festival in South Africa. This isn’t just about putting on a show; it’s about immersing ourselves in the culture, learning from it, and contributing to it,” said the team at Milk & Cookies. “South Africa’s influence on music, culture and art is profound, and we wanted to pay homage to that by making it the home of our first international festival. Our goal is to celebrate the local culture while blending it with global sounds to create something truly special.”
Cost: Main Festival – From R2200pp, book via Howler | After Party at Truth Night Club – R500pp to R800pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 11 January 2025 from 2pm till late
Where: Main Festival – Huddle Park, Club Street, Linksfield, Johannesburg | After Party – Truth Night Club, Old Pretoria Road, Midrand, Johannesburg
Calabash South Africa
Despite British pop icon Robbie Williams having to, unfortunately, pull out of Calabash this year, American rock band Green Day made a historic debut in South Africa to headline the concert. They perform alongside punk rock legends, The Offspring, and local favourites, Fokofpolisiekar. Witness the Grammy-winning trio with a three-decade legacy live as they set to captivate audiences with their anthemic hits like ‘Basket Case’, ‘American Idiot’, and more.
Cost: R575pp to R6 250pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Sunday, 19 January 2025 from 5pm
Where: FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg
FEBRUARY 2025
Let’s Rock Festival
‘Let’s Rock’, the UK’s most iconic retro festival, is making its highly anticipated debut in South Africa in 2025. Headlining both shows are 80s music icons, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey and Midge Ure, who will perform their timeless hits that shaped a generation. Thompson Twins songs such as ‘Hold Me Now’, ‘Doctor Doctor’, ‘You Take Me Up’ and ‘Love On Your Side’ provided the soundtrack for many people’s lives in the mid-eighties.
Supporting local icons include Steve Louw’s Big Sky, Just Jinjer, PJ Powers, Cindy Alter (from Clout), John Ellis (from Tree63), James Stewart (from The Usual), and Brent Harris and Thee Jam. Those looking for more than just nostalgia, ‘Let’s Rock’ is also renowned for its fun, family-friendly atmosphere, offering something for every generation to enjoy.
Cost: From R695pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 15 February 2025 from 12pm to 8pm
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
On the Lawn
On the Lawn is planning a phenomenal day out with not one but two amazing international artists. The concept park festival will be headlined by Hollow Coves and Amistat, both from Australia. They’re joined by local favourite Matthew Mole with more local announcements to come.
The festival is family-friendly, and kids under 5 enter free. Guests are welcome to take their own food along – rinks must be ordered at the park’s bar stalls.
Cost: From R495pp, book via Howler
When: Sunday, 16 February 2025 from 11am to 6pm
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Mahindra Fusion Fest
The very first Mahindra Fusion Fest is happening at SunBet Arena this February. Automotive heavyweight Mahindra South Africa is celebrating 20 years in South Africa with a 1-night lineup of music, fashion and art.
Expect four unique music fusions where South Africa’s biggest artists from different genres will come together in once-in-a-lifetime performances.
Fusion 1: Kamo Mphela (Amapiano) X Sipho Hot Stix X Mabuse (Afro-jazz) X Aymos (Amapiano)
Fusion 2: Sjava (Afro Pop) X Mathew Mole (Indie Pop) X Tarryn Lamb (Afrikaans Pop)
Fusion 3: Mi Casa (Dance House) X Young Stunna (Amapiano) X K.O. (Hip Hop)
Fusion 4: Cassper Nyovest (Hip Hop) X Zandile Mzazi (Opera) X Radio Kalahari Orkes (Afrikaans Country)
The event will also feature the debut of a new, bold collection by renowned designer, Thula Sindi and upcoming local designers, along with installations of vibrant interactive art exhibitions.
Cost: From R240pp to R1333pp, book via Ticketpro
When: Saturday, 22 February 2025 from 7pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Times Square,
MARCH 2025
Bacardi Holiday Club Oasis (in Mpumalanga)
Bacardi Holiday Club returns for a smashing weekend of music, cocktails and good vibes this March 2025. The all-inclusive package promises a drenched oasis where crystal-clear water meets golden sands, drinks are delicious, and the grooves are never-ending. Tent and accommodation packages are also on offer.
Cost: SOLD OUT! See here
When: 7 to 9 March 2025
Where: Welgelegen Manor, Balfour Road, Balfour, Mpumalanga
KUNYE
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of sound, where mind-expanding and soul-stirring sonic experiences await. The multi-day Twilight Festival is a camping music event that’s set against the tranquil bacKUNYE Festival is an exciting and vibrant music showcase that celebrates Afro-house and electronic music, and one of its standout performers is DJ Shimza.
At KUNYE Festival, DJ Shimza brings his high-energy performances, often characterized by his smooth mixes and seamless transitions. His sets are a journey through Afro-tech, deep house, and tribal rhythms, and his ability to connect with the crowd and keep the energy up throughout his performance is a key highlight of the festival. Shimza is celebrated for his ability to make each set feel unique and tailor-made for the moment, creating an unforgettable experience for festival-goers.
Cost: From R450pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 8 March 2025 from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Venue to be confirmed
Mieliepop Festival (in Mpumalanga)
Mieliepop Festival features an impressive and diverse lineup, encompassing a mix of genres such as psytrance, house, electronic, rock, indie, and folk music. The festival is known for booking a variety of both local and international artists, spanning from underground and up-and-coming acts to well-established headliners.
The music is typically divided into several stages, offering festival-goers a wide range of sounds to choose from, whether they are looking to get lost in deep beats, groove to live bands or dance to psychedelic trance. Glamping and accommodation packages are also on offer.
Cost: From R800pp to R10,000, book via Plankton
When: 13 to 15 March 2025
Where: Tolderia Resort, Lothair, Ermelo, Mpumalanga
Twilight Festival
Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of sound, where mind-expanding and soul-stirring sonic experiences await. The multi-day Twilight Festival is a camping music event that’s set against the tranquil backdrop of Pecan Bush Lodge, just a stone’s throw from the Cradle of Humankind. Expect local and international trance music acts, wellness classes, and food stalls.
Cost: R800pp to R1050pp, book via Webtickets
When: 28 to 30 March 2025
Where: Hornbill Lodge, Magaliesburg
Jazz in the Lights at Joburg Zoo
The Jazz in the Lights Music Festival at Johannesburg Zoo is a 1-day celebration where jazz aficionados will be able to delight in local and international performances. On the cards is a fun-filled day for the entire family. Younger guests can interact with the zoo animals, while jazz and music lovers take in vibrant live performances.
Confirmed artists include Khaya Mahlangu, Amanda Black, Litsomo, Carlo Mombelli and The Prisoners of Strange, Gabi Motuba, Sisonke Xonti and many more.
Cost: R350pp for adults, R200pp for students, R100pp for kids under 12. Book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 29 March from 10am
Where: Joburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Johannesburg
APRIL 2025
Cotton Fest
The 2025 instalment of Cotton Fest will once again bring the best of youth culture alive on Saturday, 26 April 2025. The gig will give a platform to both well-known and upcoming South African talent, who will perform across 3 stages, this sonic and visual festival experience returns to The Station in Newtown. Cotton Fest not only showcases the diversities in music, it also celebrates various lifestyle elements within the culture including art, fashion and sport.
Cost: From R250pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 26 April 2025 from 12pm
Where: Old Park Station, 140 Carr St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Brutal Fruit Spritzer Saturday Brunch
The Brutal Fruit Spritzer Saturday Brunch will bring another stylish edition and all-out feminine energy to Johannesburg for summer. Besties can once again indulge in spritzer cocktails, gorgeous brunching, and pampering treatments.
A firm highlight on Joburg’s social calendar since its launch last year, the event promises to elevate the experience to new heights. A full-day lineup featuring some of the country’s leading DJs and artists keeps the guests engaged from start to end.
Cost: To be confirmed. Your ticket includes entry to the event and a complimentary glass of Brutal Fruit Spritzer
When: Previously in April, new date to be confirmed
Where: To be confirmed
MAY 2025
Ultra South Africa
Attendees have the opportunity to experience one of the largest and most well-known EDM festivals globally, known for its massive lineups featuring some of the biggest names in the electronic music industry. Ultra showcases a diverse range of sub-genres within EDM, including house, techno, trance, dubstep, and more.
Cost: From R1150pp, book via Howler
When: Annually in March
Where: Nasrec Expo Centre, Nasrec Rd corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg
Bassline Fest
The annual Bassline Fest has become an institution in Joburg for their celebration at Constitution Hill. Each year a lineup of top-notch talent from across the continent grace the stage for special live performances. And kids are welcome to join too!
“Bassline Fest is welcoming everyone in the city to come celebrate with song, dance, food and fun,” says Paige Holmes from Bassline Fest. “There will be an African artisanal market selling all manner of exquisitely created African food, arts and craft, as well as bars and other food and drink stalls to choose from.”
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Last held in May, date to be confirmed
Where: Constitution Hill, 11 Kotze St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
JUNE 2025
Capital Craft Beer Festival
The 11th annual Capital Craft Beer Festival taking place at the beautiful green surrounds of the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens. On offer are South African beers, and big-name bands, coupled with great food and entertainment.
And to beat the hunger pangs, food stalls and street food will keep the crowds well-fed and energised throughout the event. Get your fill of a large range of cuisine including freshly made paella, gourmet paninis, good old Boerewors rolls, burgers from Capital Craft and much more.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Last held in June, date to be confirmed
Where: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, 2 Cussonia Street, Brummeria, Pretoria
Basha Uhuru’s Sounds of Freedom Music Festival
Johannesburg’s most anticipated creative festival, Constitution Hill’s Basha Uhuru Freedom Festival, offers a jam-packed line-up of creative immersions and experiences, culminating in the Sounds of Freedom Music Festival to end things off.
The music festival in 2024 was headlined by local megastars including Murda Bongz, Sjava with Amagugu Ezwe, Alaska, FKA Mash, Nadia Nakai, Solo Nsizwa KaMthimkhulu, Kujenga, Holly Rey, ByLwansta, Castro, Doda, Boisanza and many more.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Last held in June, date to be confirmed
Where: Constitution Hill, 11 Kotze St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
AUGUST 2025
Hey Neighbour
Hey Neighbour is a 3-day global music fest taking place on African soil, uniting international & local artists. The festival’s latest line-up usually includes a global hip-hop and pop sensation as headliner, along with a dynamic line-up of local and international talent. There are various ticket options, accommodation offerings, and travel arrangements options available.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: 29 to 31 August 2025
Where: Legends Adventure Farm, R515 Rhino Park, Pretoria
Parklive Festival
The massively popular annual Parklive Festival is set to pull out all the stops for its 2025 edition. Last year’s festival featured an all-star line-up that included Jeremy Loops, Myles Smith (from the UK), Mi Casa, Prime Circle, Craig Lucas, Veranda Panda, Droomsindroom and Pixie Whip. Parklive Festival has become a beacon for music lovers, attracting thousands of attendees who share a deep passion for live performances, sensational vibes, and a celebration of artistic expression in a family-friendly setting.
A regular fixture is their immersive and all-encompassing experience. Festival-goers can beat the hunger pangs with street food, beer on tap, and other drinks from the village area.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: August 2025, to be confirmed
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
SEPTEMBER 2025
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
The Standard Bank Joy of Festival is one of Africa’s premier jazz festivals in Johannesburg. Jazz lovers will be reintroduced to the music, while novices discover the magic of jazz.
You can also look forward to multi-award-winners from Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz award alumnus, which is another highlight of the annual show. Artist lineup TBA.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: 26 to 28 September 2025
Where: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandton, Gauteng
DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival
The annual DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival is ringing in its 11th year with a spectacular celebration of exciting performances, good food, and a great vibe. This music festival in Johannesburg is all about uniting people of all cultures and backgrounds through their mutual enjoyment of music and food. Some of the country’s top bands and artists will take the stage for vibey performances throughout the weekend.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: September 2025, dates TBC
Where: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Cnr R55 &, Allandale Rd, Kyalami Estate, Midrand
Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival
In celebration of Heritage Month, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Symphonic Jazz Festival invites you to this year’s vibrant world of South African jazz. The festival takes place at the Linder Auditorium and serves a rich tapestry of jazz music that honours the country’s beautiful musical heritage.
The 2024 edition featured a performance of the ‘SA Symphonic Jazz Songbook,’ conducted by the acclaimed Marcus Wyatt. The JPO and ZAR Orchestra presented a grand selection of South African jazz classics, including works by Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, and Abdullah Ibrahim, alongside contemporary artists like Feya Faku and Benjamin Jephta.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: September 2025 – dates to be confirmed
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
Galaxy 947 Joburg Day
The Galaxy 947 Joburg Day is an annual music festival attended by over 10,000 people celebrating South Africa’s finest artists under a Spring sky.
The festival offers attendees good times with friends and family at Crocodile Cree and is known for attracting a large audience and providing a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists to showcase their talent. It’s a day-long event filled with live music performances, entertainment, food stalls, and various other activities.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Anually in September, date to be confirmed
Where: Crocodile Creek, Lanseria
Folklore Festival
The 4th annual Folklore Festival is a celebration of African culture and music that takes place at the National School of Arts.
Previous headliners included The Soil as well as SAMA Award-winner Pilani Bubu with her Folklore Ensemble and Kenyan musician Papillion Musa. Alongside the musical lineup, this festival hosts a range of kid’s activities such as a book fair featuring young African authors and workshops on indigenous instruments. There are also a number of stalls selling African food and crafts as part of the diverse Pan-African creative offering.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Usually held in September, date to be confirmed
Where: The National School of Arts, 17 Hoofd St, Braampark, Johannesburg
OCTOBER 2025
Spring Fiesta
The annual Spring Fiesta usually takes place in Ekurhuleni sometime in October. With over a decade in the making, this is one of the most iconic day and night music festivals in Johannesburg offering a celebration of all things local, music, culture and togetherness.
The festival showcases top-tier South African talent with a diverse range of artists and DJs across different music genres. From House, Hip Hop, Piano, and Deep House to AfroTech – all performing live across the 6 themed stages. Attendees had the opportunity to watch performances from six different stages including the main stage, hip-hop stage, soul candy stage and more.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: To be confirmed
Where: Wild Waters Complex, Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, Boksburg
Back to the City Festival
The annual Hennessy Back To The City Festival returns for its 19th edition. It features artists from South Africa and abroad who are representing the pinnacle of artistic expression.
This unique annual youth event has grown into the largest public display of both commercial and underground Hip Hop in Africa. Presenting a day of live music, street art, break-dancing, art installation, skateboarding, film, street fashion, gaming, speakers and panel discussions. Line up to be announced soon.
When: Annually in October
Where: Mary FitzGerald Square, 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
NOVEMBER 2025
Festival of Lights
The annual Johannesburg Festival of Lights features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters and classical, harmonious entertainment, food and craft night market for visitors at the Johannesburg Zoo. Top local artists such as Tamara Dey and Daliwonga perform live on selected evenings. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk in the zoo on a designated lit route away from the animals under trees decorated in enchanting lights.
Cost: R175pp (adults) | R75pp (kids aged 3 to 12) | R100pp (pensioners) | Free entry for kids u/3 | Book via Webtickets
When: From 28 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview, Randburg
Motherland Festival
Motherland Festival is more than an annual music event; it’s a cultural pilgrimage, aiming to create transformative experiences and amplify African art on a global scale. With plans to expand into a bi-annual, bi-city event, the festival continues to elevate South African music and culture.
Big name headliners such as Kabza De Small, Kelvin Momo, Mahwoo and Lelowhatsgood among others led the 2024 edition.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: To be confirmed
Where: To be confirmed
DECEMBER 2025
Good Morning
Good Morning is one of the more chilled daytime music festivals in Johannesburg that beams with good vibes, music and food. The fest plays host to some of South Africa’s most popular DJs and international guest artists.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: Anually in August and December, from 10am to 6pm
Where: To be confirmed
Revolution NYE
Revolution NYE is planning a massive party for the latest edition of their Revolution NYE Festival this year. Join a community of chilled folks for an exclusive, intimate gathering to celebrate the evolution of 2025 and begin the next Revolution around the sun. Welcome 2026 while dancing alongside your crew.
Cost: To be confirmed
When: 30 December 2025 to 1 January 2026
Where: Hornbill Lodge, Magaliesburg
See more live music events in Joburg
