Romantic Things to Do This Valentine’s Day in Joburg and Surrounds

Treat yourself and your sweetheart to a Valentine’s Day like no other this 2025. From romantic activities to intimate dinners, couple’s massages and picturesque picnics in the park, there are tons of sweet ways to show your love this Valentine’s Day in Johannesburg.

A dog-friendly Valentine’s Day picnic at Syringa Park

If you’re looking for a chilled romantic experience, Syringa Park at Avianto Estate is hosting a Valentine’s Day Picnic to celebrate the month of love. The event includes an unforgettable evening of sunsets, delicious food, and live music.

The experience features a complimentary drink on arrival, a picnic basket which can be pre-ordered and filled with gourmet delights online. Bring along a picnic blanket or purchase one on-site for added comfort and let your four-legged companions tag along.

Cost: Free entry including complimentary welcome drink, tickets required to be registered via Quicket. The cost for an empty picnic basket is R150 and can be purchased in advance on Quicket or on the day on-site. Guests can order food and drink from the food stalls ahead of the event or at the park. See the options here.

When: Friday, 14 February 2025, 4pm to 8pm
Where: Syringa Park, Avianto Estate, Muldersdrift

Try a fun cooking class at this super slick studio in Sandton

Throughout the month, the Vitality HealthyFood Studio hosts a variety of different courses themed according to national cuisines, convenience, or various occasions such as family feasts or date nights.

Each dish is crafted to balance health and flavour, ensuring a satisfying meal and the presiding expert chefs approach their teaching in an interactive way, so prepare to get stuck in the mix in this hands-on programme. Non-alcoholic drinks are included with every ticket.

See the full lineup of February classes here

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Valentine’s Gala Concert

Join the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra for the annual Valentine’s Gala Concert for a mix of classical works and contemporary love-themed songs for both young and old.

Well-known conductor, Eddie Clayton, will guide the orchestra for this special concert. A host of accomplished vocalists include Zita Pretorius, Monde Msuntwana and acclaimed trumpeter, Adam Howard.

Cost: From R180pp

When: Friday, 14 February 2025 from 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg

After dark animal tours at Johannesburg Zoo

Johannesburg Zoo will extend their opening hours on Friday, 14 February for a special Valentine’s experience. On offer is a variety of after-dark experiences that are perfect for couples seeking a unique and memorable outing. These nocturnal adventures provide an intimate glimpse into the lives of animals after sunset.

Tailored specifically for adults, the Night Tour allows participants to explore the zoo’s nocturnal side. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll observe animals as they become active under the cover of darkness. Round out your experience with a food and drink at the onsite restaurant.

Cost: A special buy 1, get 1 free offer applies on tickets for Valentine’s Day only. R126pp for adults, R74pp for kids, book via Webtickets. See the full breakdown of rates here. Tickets can also be booked at the entrance.

When: Friday, 14 February from 8:30am to 8:30pm
Where: Jcorner of Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Parkview, Johannesburg

Let's Rock music festival — PJ Powers and John Ellis

A nostalgic Valentine’s Day with the Let’s Rock retro music festival

Let’s Rock is the UK’s most iconic retro festival, and the music showcase is making its highly anticipated debut in South Africa this year.

The Joburg show is taking place at Marks Park and fans can look forward to a romantic afternoon filled with incredible 80s nostalgia and a mix of international legends and local icons such as Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure, PJ Powers and many more.

Cost: From R695pp (Excl. R35 Fee). Couples or friends heading to the music festival can take advantage of the special ticket offer to celebrate Valentine’s month. Get TWO General Admission tickets for just R497.50 per ticket, with promo code “LETSROCK”. Book here

When: Saturday, 15 February 2025 from 12pm to 8pm
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Randburg

Join Sandton City’s ‘Talking Love’ campaign and stand a chance to win a shopping spree

Love speaks in many ways, and this Valentine’s month, Sandton City is celebrating them all with their Talking Love campaign. For this year’s digital campaign, Sandton City partnered with four celebrity couples who each highlight the beauty of personal expression in relationships.

Shoppers are invited to join the conversation by sharing their love language on social media by following and tagging @sandtoncitymall and using #TalkingLoveSC for a chance to win a R5000 Sandton City shopping spree.

When: The online competition runs from 7 to 28 February 2025

Experience luxury with The Maslow’s Sunday Society Picnic

The Maslow Sandton Hotel welcomes guests to their monthly luxurious picnics in the garden. Sip on the finest Graham Beck bubbly while you indulge in meticulously crafted light meals for two in a picnic basket, from appetizers to decadent desserts. The picnic also features curated live music and engaging activities all set up in a vibrant atmosphere.

A dress code applies for each event, with the February picnic’s dress code being Romantic Vintage Elegance.

Cost: R850pp or R1 700 per couple, including a glass of bubbly, a gourmet picnic basket with tempting treats & complimentary bottle of bubbly, hot food selection, and live music. Book via Quicket

When: Sunday, 16 February from 1pm to 5pm
Where: The Maslow Hotel, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton

Wine tasting under the stars at Maropeng

Maropeng is hosting a stargazing event at Sterkfontein Caves that includes a tour, a wine pairing experience with Spier wines, and an informal talk on astronomy. The astronomers at Hominin House guide a fireside talk that touches on the connection between stars and our origins and journey through the universe that’ll ignite your curiosity and warm your heart.

Cost: Adults, R600pp. Kids 5 to 11yrs, R270pp, Kids 5 and under enter free. Book via Webtickets or email [email protected] or call 014 577 9000

When: Saturday, 15 February from
Where: Sterkfontein Caves, Kromdraai Rd, Johannesburg

Large On The Lawn live music and picnic in the park

Large On The Lawn is bringing an unforgettable day of love, music, and connection to Marks Park, Emmarentia on Sunday, 16 February. Musical acts Hollow Coves, Amistat, Matthew Mole, Desmond and the Tutus, and more will take the stage, setting the vibe for an unforgettable Valentine’s weekend.

With an unbeatable lineup, breathtaking outdoor surroundings, and an atmosphere bursting with love and good vibes, the festival offers the perfect opportunity to eat, drink and dance under the sun, so feel free to bring a picnic blanket or a camping chair and an umbrella and grab a drink and some food from the vendors on site.

Cost: From R295pp (general admission) | From R445pp (VIP)

When: Sunday, 16 February 2025 from 11am to 7pm
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Randburg

See Joburg’s top sights on a sunset bus tour

City Sightseeing’s red bus is hosting a romantic journey through Joburg’s scenic sights this Valentine’s Day with an exclusive sunset bus tour happening on Friday, 15 February and Saturday, 15 February.

This 2-hour tour will cruise past panoramic views before stopping for 45 enchanting minutes at a romantic spot to take in the sunset and toast with a complimentary glass of bubbles and Lindt chocolates. Afterwards, you’ll return on a picturesque drive back to Rosebank, arriving by 7:30pm to enjoy the rest of your evening. No dinner plans yet? See our guide to the best dining experiences on Valentine’s weekend here.

Cost: R390 per couple, no kids allowed on the Valentine’s Sunset tour. Includes a welcoming glass of bubbles and chocolate. Bookings to be made online only – book here

When: Friday, 14 February and Saturday, 15 February from 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Where: Meet at The Zone @Rosebank, 77 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Head to the Valentine’s Expo at Fourways Mall to spoil yourself of a loved one

This year, Fourways Mall is taking the hassle out of gift shopping with their first Valentine’s Expo running from Thursday, 13 February to Sunday, 16 February at the Centre Court. You can look forward to a series of mini ‘pop-up’ shops all showing a range of interesting gift ideas. There will also be a food market, 360-projection dome where you can unwind, and an artistic installation to make the most of the experience.

Cost: Free entry

When: Running from 13 to 16 February 2025
Where: Centre Court at Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Fourways, Sandton

Valentine’s Day at Fairlawns

Take your pick from a variety of romantic activities on offer at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa. They’re offering everything from couple’s spa and picnic retreats to romantic candlelit dinners, a Valentine’s overnight stay, and a Valentine’s dinner dance.

Cost: Prices vary, check out the Valentine’s Day events here. Book the spa experience via email at [email protected], the dinners at [email protected] and the overnight stay at [email protected]. OR call 011 803 7300 to make a booking.

When: Various
Where: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, 1 Alma Rd, Morningside, Sandton

‘True Romance’ at The Bioscope

Every year on Valentine’s Day, The Bioscope has always screened the Tarantino written, Tony Scott cult classic True Romance (1993), starring Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette. Not your typical romance film, this action rampage is something a little different, where a forbidden romance and a crime action story seamlessly meld together.

Your ‘Bioscope Couple’s Ticket’ includes entry for two people, plus any one pizza from their menu to share.

Cost: R350 for the Bioscope Couple’s Ticket | R100 (single ticket with no pizza) | Book online

When: Friday, 14 February at 6pm and 8.30pm
Where: The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg

A Valentine’s spa experience at one of Joburg’s top spas

Celebrate your love story at Vivari Hotel and Spa, where every moment is thoughtfully crafted to leave you and your partner feeling cherished. Feel the love as your spa experience is transformed into an enchanting celebration of love.

We picked all our favourite day spas in Johannesburg and the surrounds to get pampered and rejuvenated and slip away for a touch of zen at heart. Whether you want to make it a whole day of lathering up in blissful relaxation or a quick fix-me-up, we have you sorted.

See all the top spas in Joburg

Lover’s Rock Food and Music Picnic

Spend Valentine’s Day weekend with a special someone at the Lover’s Rock Food and Music Picnic.

Curated by Coco&J (married couple J Something of Mi Casa and Cordelia Fonseca) and powered by 947Joburg, the event is bringing good food, good music and all the feels to Ground the Venue for a romantic day out. Get your groove on with your lover whilst nibbling on some exclusive goodies served in a picnic basket.

Cost: From R400pp

When: Sunday, 15 February from 10am to 10pm
Where: Ground The Venue, Plot 19 Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift

Get the details

Raspberry picking at The Field Berry Farm

Spend a relaxing Valentine’s Day picking fresh raspberries together at The Field Berry Farm’s Raspberry Festival. This small orchard comes alive with thousands of shrubs for you to pick delicious and ripe raspberries with picked berries weighed and priced at R140/kg.

The fruit farm also offers food stalls, a bicycle track and outdoor play space for kids, and live local music performances from time to time.

Cost: R55pp entry fee (adults) | R45pp entry fee (Pensioners & Kids aged 2-11) | Tickets must be booked online via their website to avoid long queues at the venue – the farm does not accept walk-ins.

When: Saturday and Sunday, 15 and 16 February | From 9am to 3pm
Where: The Field Berry Farm, De Deur, 1876 Walkerville

Concert for Love at NIROX Sculpture Park

Celebrate your loved ones and your love for music at NIROX Sculpture Park’s Concert for Love. The event explores the profound relationship between love and music, delving into how the two forces intertwine to shape emotional landscapes.

Love, in its many forms, offers a deep reservoir of inspiration for musical expression, and this sonic experience reflects that complexity through a carefully curated blend of original compositions and cover songs.

In this setting, love is both the subject and the vehicle – its themes are explored in delicate nuances, while the act of musical collaboration itself mirrors the communion inherent in love.

Cost: From R450pp | Free (children u/12) | Book via Howler

When: Sunday, 16 February from 10am
Where: NIROX Sculpture Park, R540 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp

An easy-going ice cream date at Baglios

What better way for you and a special someone to keep cool on a warm Valentine’s Day than with a few tasty scoops of gelato at Baglios?

The Barbaglia family are South African-Italian entrepreneurs who created the Baglios brand in a way that connects with customers and ensures an experience that is truly indulgent. Take it easy this Valentine’s Day with your choice of flavours in ice cream, sorbet, frozen yoghurt and granita including caramel and coffee sorbet and more.

When: Daily, from 9am to 11pm
Where: 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Sandton, Johannesburg

Check out more ice cream parlours in Joburg

Picnic in a Bubble

Picnic in a Bubble is a quirky and fun experience to consider if you’re looking to enjoy an outdoor meal or high tea with a twist. It offers the enjoyment of a picnic set in a bubble for an average duration of an hour and a half.

The idea sprung about during lockdown. Fears of the outdoors were at an all-time high and resulted in an eccentric and fun way to enjoy nature and the outdoors in an intimate setting.

Picnic packages vary according to the needs of each guest and their requirements. Included in the picnic packages are the beautiful décor, platters, and a bottle of sparkling wine or guests can opt to order from the venue.

Cost: From R1450pp to R2450pp, view the options here

When: By arrangement
Where: The Bridge Wedding Venue, Abraham van Wyk Rd, Muldersdrift | Riverstone Lodge, Cnr R114 & N14 Offramp, Muldersdrift, Krugersdorp

A murder mystery date night with On the Case

Who said solving a murder mystery couldn’t be romantic? On the Case is giving you the opportunity to plan the coolest date night this Valentine’s Day.

Order a creatively concocted case file to be delivered right to your door and have fun solving it with your loved one. There are a number of various mysteries to choose from, with titles like Silent Symphony, Deadly Inheritance, The Showgirl, and so much more.

Spend the evening analysing evidence, picking up clues, and solving mysteries for the ultimate bonding session.

Cost: From R276 per case file, purchase online

When: Up to the buyer
Where: From the comfort of your home

A romantic trail walk through The Wilds Nature Reserve

Not looking to spend too much on Valentine’s Day? Take your loved one on a leisurely stroll through The Wilds Nature Reserve which offers beautiful vegetation and spectacular art pieces by the talented, James Delaney.

What started in 2013 to 2018 as a pastime of trimming trees and cleaning in the park, James and fellow volunteers, revitalised the park and brought the glorious green gem in the urban heart of Joburg back to its former glory.

Bring a book and blanket if you prefer to take it easy, with plenty of picnic spots to relax and enjoy the tranquil fountains or city skyline backdrop.

Cost: Free entry

When: Monday to Sunday, 6am to 6pm
Where: Houghton Dr, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg

See more hiking trails in Joburg and surrounds

Sushi and Salsa Dancing

Get your stomach full and your body moving with a unique Valentine’s Day sushi making event followed by salsa dancing.

The class entails a sushi platter of 12 pieces per person, with California and maki rolls on the menu. Once the food is made and your stomachs are full, enjoy an evening of dancing the salsa, bachata and kizomba.

All ingredients and utensils are provided for, and you are welcome to bring your own drinks or wine.

Cost: R450pp | R800 per couple | Book via Quicket

When: Friday, 14 February from 8pm to 8.30pm
Where: Crown Guest House, 413 Albert St, Waterkloof, Pretoria

A laid-back Valentine’s Day picnic at Rosemary Hill

Escape to the countryside with a dreamy picnic at Rosemary Hill this Valentine’s Day! Picture yourself surrounded by the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and cheerful birds as you dig into a delicious sharing box. Find the perfect spot on the farm and enjoy a relaxing time with family and friends.

The menu keeps it simple and wholesome, featuring grilled chicken ciabatta, cocktail riblets, chicken drumettes, dessert tapas, and homemade lemonade, with vegan and gluten-free options available too.

Everything comes packed in a wooden box with eco-friendly, biodegradable, and recyclable containers. Keep in mind, your picnic spot is yours to enjoy for up to 4 hours and you are required to bring your own picnic blanket and cushions.

Cost: From R375pp and R650pp, see menu here. Book via Activitybridge

When: Daily, from 11am to 4pm
Where: 41 Reier Rd, Kameeldrift-East, Pretoria