The Johannesburg Garden Club’s Open Garden 2026: A Scenic Springtime Meander through a Breathtaking Garden

The Johannesburg Garden Club’s annual Open Garden event returns over the weekend of 17 and 18 October 2026.

This time, not only do guests get rare access to a beautiful garden, but this year is also an extra special celebration of 75 years that the Garden Club has been a haven for gardening, friendship, hospitality and giving back.

The Johannesburg Garden Club's Open Garden | What's on in Joburg

Open Garden 2026 celebrates 75 years of horticultural love and preservation

The annual Open Garden is the one weekend of the year when Johannesburg Garden Club members welcome the public to witness a magnificent garden in all its glory.

This year’s Open Garden event takes guests through a mature garden of approximately one-and-a-half acres, originally laid out in the mid-20th century. Its character comes from the combination of established planting, mature trees, formal areas and winding garden paths.

More recently, the planting scheme has developed a strong blue-and-white theme, punctuated by vibrant colour from the rose garden.

The garden combines formality with softer, more naturalistic planting beneath the trees. Winding paths lead visitors through the garden, creating a sense of discovery and whimsy.

From welcoming visitors and serving in the tea garden to running the plant sale and creating the relaxed atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the Club’s events, Club members give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make the weekend special.

What to do at The Johannesburg Garden Club’s Open Garden 2026

Over two days, visitors can enjoy garden viewing, browse the plant sale and pre-loved treasures, relax in the tea garden and indulge in bubbles, smoked salmon and wine purchased by the glass from Zevenwacht and Copeland Wine Estates.

The plant sale includes imported Italian terracotta pots and brandy wine barrels along with the latest rose from Ludwigs – The Gwen Gill – named for the legendary columnist.

Garden lovers can look forward to flowering roses, ironwork from Garden Bleu, and clematis from one of the Club’s breeder members. There is also a Portobello Road Market stand, offering an eclectic selection of pre-loved treasures and collectibles.

Whilst guests take in the beauty of the garden, from 12pm, the Phoenix Big Band offers the perfect soundtrack to their afternoon of discovery.

And the best part? Proceeds from the Open Garden support Johannesburg Child Welfare, continuing a 75-year tradition of combining a passion for horticulture with meaningful community support.

Enter the raffle and win prizes!

The Open Garden event also features a raffle with some fabulous prizes. Raffle tickets are R30 for one or R100 for four, with the draw taking place on Monday, 19 October 2026.

How to visit

The garden is easily reached from Oxford Road via Boundary Road. Proceed down Boundary Road and turn left into 4th Avenue. The garden is the last house on the right-hand side.

Parking is signposted and attended by security guards, but guests should note that parking is limited and using Uber is recommended.

No pets or picnic setups are allowed. The garden is, however, wheelchair accessible.

Cost: From R100pp; children under 12 enter free. Book via Quicket