The leaves are turning gold and the weather is growing chilly, but fret not! The arrival of autumn is not going to stop the fun. There is still a huge number of exciting things to do this April in Johannesburg. From Easter celebrations to kids’ activities, music festivals, awe-inspiring dance performances and more, check out our guide below.

A magical circus showcase with Worlds Away

Prepare to be whisked off on an unforgettable journey across the stars with ‘Worlds Away: A Journey to Circusland’, showing this April in Johannesburg.

This family-friendly spectacle invites all into the world of a brave young star who embarks on a thrilling quest to find his lost sparkle. Through dazzling landscapes and mystical realms, he encounters daring obstacles and otherworldly creatures, all while uncovering truths about light, love, and belonging.

Cost: From R150pp to R450pp, tickets available via Webtickets. What’s on in Joburg readers can receive a 30% discount on their tickets by using the code WOJ30 at checkout.

When: Running over two weekends from 4 to 6 April, and 11 to 13 April
Where: Carnival City, Cnr Century Road &, Elsburg Rd, Brakpan, Boksburg

Read more about the circus showcase

Oos Wes, Tuis Bes is Joburg’s new Afrikaans music festival

Oos Wes, Tuis Bes is a brand-new evening of electrifying Afrikaans music happening this April at Carnival City. Music lovers can look forward to some of the country’s best Afrikaans talent including Nicholis Louw, Bibi, Juan Boucher, Herman Kleinhans, and many more all on one stage. 

Cost: From R200pp to R800pp, tickets available via Tixsa

When: Saturday, 5 April from 7pm. Doors open at 6pm
Where: Carnival City, Cnr Century Road &, Elsburg Rd, Brakpan, Boksburg

Read more about the festival

A bouncy indoor adventure for the kids with Unlimited Rush

Keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays can be a challenge, but Unlimited Rush makes it easy and affordable. For just R215 per session, your kids get unlimited jump time at Joburg’s premier indoor adventure park, while you enjoy a stress-free break.

Cost: R215pp, book online

When: Monday, 24 March to Monday, 7 April | Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
Where: Rush Greenstone – Extreme Sports Park, Cnr van Riebeeck & Modderfontein Rd, Greenstone Hill

Check out what else the kids can get up to these April school holidays

Candy Land and putt putt Easter break activities at Clearwater Mall

Clearwater Mall’s Candy Land and putt putt experience unlocks the magic of the holidays with fun-filled activities to keep the kids entertained through the Easter school break.

Each ticket comes with a free Candy Land activity which can be done alone or paired with a putt putt session. The little ones get to make their choice between candy kebab making or DIY candy themed fridge magnets for their free activity.

Cost: R50pp (includes one free activity). Book via Webtickets

When: Friday, 28 March to Sunday, 6 April 2025 | Mon to Thurs & Sat from 11am to 6pm. Friday from 11am to 8pm. Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Where: Rochester Court – Clearwater Mall (Upper Level), Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort

Read more about the holiday event

Joburg Ballet’s DreamScapes triple bill

Joburg Ballet’s first production of 2025, DreamScapes, is a transformative trio of ballets showcasing the company’s extraordinary versatility and commitment to celebrating heritage, artistry and innovation.

This compelling programme weaves together the timeless beauty of ‘Les Sylphides’, the deeply rooted spiritual narrative of Kitty Phetla’s new ballet ‘The Underworld & Elsewhere’, and the electrifying vibrancy of Dane Hurst’s new work ‘Resonance’.

Cost: From R100pp to R350pp. Book via Webtickets

When: Running from 28 March to 6 April. Various times
Where: Roodepoort Theatre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Rd, Florida Park, Roodepoort

Read more about the ballet showcase

Kings & Queens of Comedy marks its 13th season

Mark your calendars for an unmissable night of stand-up royalty at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg when Kings & Queens of Comedy marks 13 seasons with a show that blends nostalgia, legacy, and fresh, fearless humour.

Expect electrifying sets from comedy legends Darren ‘Wackhead’ Simpson, Chris Forrest, Joey Rasdien, Angel Campey, Darren Alfred Adriaan, Annalakshmi, Muthu Murugan, Khanyisa Bunu, Tracey-Lee Oliver, and Conrad Koch & Chester Missing.

Cost: R150pp to R550pp, book via Ticketpro

When: Saturday, 12 April 2025 from 8pm
Where: Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, O.R. Tambo, Kempton Park

Read more about the event

Movie magic under the stars at Sunset Cinema in Alberton

The Sunset Cinema is bringing multiple nights of cinematic magic under the stars to Alberton.

Cozied up and grounded, everyone is just a pillow and a blanket away from a lovely, laid-back evening of cinema as close to nature as you can get. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the Clubhouse on site.

This April, there are five screenings. On 11 April, they’ll be showing the Oscar-nominated Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody (2018). Catch the action/adventure film A Knight’s Tale (2001) on 12 April and another beloved Heath Ledger action movie, The Dark Knight (2008) on 25 April. The romance classic, Pretty Woman (1990) is showing on 26 April, and the hilarious rom com, Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) closes out the month, showing on 29 April.

Cost: From R130pp, book via Quicket

When: Friday, 11 to Tuesday, 29 April. All movie nights start at 7pm, doors open at 6pm
Where: Reading Country Club, 1449 40 Fore St, New Redruth, Alberton

Bodybymartha Wellness Bootcamp

Get ready for the first annual Bodybymartha Wellness Bootcamp this April in Johannesburg.

Join for a day of fun, fitness, and empowerment. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or learn something new, this event has it all. Expect aerobic exercises, functional exercises, dance fit, abs, yoga, a cold plunge with RISE wellness, and healthy snacks.

Bring along a yoga mat (compulsory), sunscreen, and a hat.

Cost: From R275pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 12 April. Registration starts at 7am
Where: Panorama Football Club, Paul Kruger Ave & John Vorster Rd, Radiokop, Roodepoort

Become a part of the Dikeme Farms Brunch Club

Escape to a brunch experience like no other, nestled in the Cradle of Humankind with sweeping views of the Magaliesberg Mountains.

Brunch al fresco on farm to table local dishes from a chef-curated gourmet buffet bursting with flavour and nutrition, sip champagne under open skies, and unwind in a lush garden immersed in natures grandeur.

With limited seats, reserve a spot to reconnect with nature – and for serenity and a taste of the earth’s purest bounty.

Cost: R1250pp. R895pp aged 13 to 17 | Book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 12 April from 10am to 4pm
Where: Dikeme Farms, 2MMQ+FX Krugersdorp

See Lara Foot’s masterful puppetry production

Epic in scale, the multi-layered theatrical staging of the Life & Times of Michael K combines puppetry, performance, film and evocative music. The production gives life to JM Coetzee’s Booker Prize-winning novel and brings together some of South Africa’s most revered, multi-award-winning artists and creatives.

Cost: Tickets range from R198pp to R275pp, and book via Webtickets

When: Running until 13 April 2025. On selected days, shows at 7pm and 3pm
Where: John kANI stage at The Market Theatre, 56 Margaret Mcingana St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Music, rollercoasters, crafts and carnival fun at the Rand Show

The Rand Show returns for its latest installment this April.

The five-day fair will be inviting thousands to celebrate the Easter Weekend together at the show. Here, visitors can expect everything from thrilling carnival rides to delicious food stalls, live entertainment, up-market shopping, show specials, and exciting competitions.

Some new additions to the show include the MamaMagic Baby Expo, and Big Bounce, a rugby field-sized bounce experience that is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. 

Cost: From R90pp. R340 family package for 2 adults + 2 kids | Book via Ticketpro

When: Thursday to Monday, 17 to 21 April from 9am to 7pm daily
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, (NASREC), Corner Nasrec Road & Randshow Road, Johannesburg

Art for Autism Gala Dinner

The Art Club Foundation (TACF) along with the Ayanda I Am Art Gallery host a fundraiser and art auction in aid of children living with autism.

The art pieces available on the live auction have been donated by various artists from around Southern Africa and, in honour of April being Autism Month, 50% of the proceeds from this online auction will be donated to The Art Club Foundation – so purchasing an art piece means actively supporting work with children with autism in 2025.

Cost: R750pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 19 April from 6pm to 10pm
Where: Artistry JHB, 22 Fredman Dr, Sandown, Sandton

Annual Easter Souvla at Sass Cafe

Join Sass Cafe for delicious food and a beautiful setting this Easter.

Expect a Souvla set menu with pita and dips at arrival, your choice of spanakopita, calamari/squid heads or California rolls for the starter, Souvla, roasted potatoes, Asian slaw, pumpkin fritters, and village salad for the main, and a choice of baklava or Easter mousse for dessert.

There will also be kids’ entertainment, a play area, and of course, an Easter egg hunt.

Cost: R500pp. R220pp for children u/12 | Book via dineplan, tel at 069 626 3671 or email at [email protected]

When: Sunday, 20 April from 1pm
Where: Sass Cafe, 3 Iris Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Learn more about the renegade queer feminist, Bev Ditsie

Join for a special retrospective that explores the depth and impact of Bev Ditsie’s career through a curated selection of films, videos, and television projects. This capsule event is not just a look back—it’s a celebration of the intersection of art and activism and a testament to a legacy that continues to inspire.

The TV and film retrospective will be moderated by the incomparable South African poet, playwright, recording artist, and actress, Lebogang Mashile and there will be a live painting experience by artist, Nico Phooko.

Cost: R200pp, and book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 17 April from 6pm to 11pm
Where: The Other Foundation, 36 Bath Avenue (Corner of Bolton Road &, Bath Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg

Easter Sunday Lunch at Tradewinds Restaurant, NH Sandton

Celebrate Easter Sunday with a delicious buffet at Tradewinds Restaurant, featuring all festive favourites, including pickled fish and hot cross buns. Plus, there’s also an exciting Easter Egg Hunt for the little ones.

Cost: R750pp. R375 for kids aged 6-12. FREE for kids under 6 | Book online, via tel at 011 322 1888, or email [email protected]

When: Sunday, 20 April from 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Where: Tradewinds Restaurant at NH Sandton, 138 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton

Find out where else you can indulge in the perfect Easter lunch

Comedy night with Robbie Collins, Celeste Ntuli, and Mo Mthebe

Prepare for a night of stand up comedy featuring the best South African stand-up comedians. This comedy special is hosted by Mo Mothebe and features the latest rourines of Netflix and Amazon Star Robby Collins as well as the incomparable Queen of African Stand up Comedy, Celeste Ntuli.

Cost: R200pp, and book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 24 April from 7pm to 11pm
Where: Goethe-Institut, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg

Bambini Ice Cream Tasting Easter Event

Celebrate Easter with a special family-friendly Ice Cream Tasting Extravaganza at Black Horse Brewery in Magaliesburg.

Guests get to dive into a delightful journey of 14 unique, handcrafted sorbets and ice creams. For the grown-ups, indulge in Bambini’s exclusive selection of six alcoholic sorbets and ice creams, infused with bold, delicious flavors designed to excite the palate.

While adults enjoy the tastings, children will love the lively market atmosphere, with plenty of kid-friendly options.

Cost: R120pp. R60 for the alcoholic tasting | Book via Quicket

When: Monday, 21 April from 10am to 2.30pm
Where: Galloway Garden – Black Horse Brewery, 79, Seekoeihoek, Magaliesburg

SA Fashion Week Spring/Summer Collection showcases

Now in its 28th year, the country’s top fashion design platform hosts 7 shows over three days, showing 24 collections.

The knitting of collaborative networks and the shaping of a sustainable fashion future for South Africa are some of the most exhilarating trends to watch at South African Fashion Week (SAFW’s) Spring/ Summer 25 Collections.

Expect shows by the SAFW New Talent Search contenders, Gert Johan Coetzee, Isuzu Luxury Collections, The Cruz Collective,  BeachCult and Pret-A-Perfect, Colleen Eitzen and Helon Melon, the DSAC young entrepreneurs of the year, and finally luxury and fashion brand Sun Goddess.

Cost: From R350pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday to Saturday, 24 to 26 April. From 6.30pm nightly
Where: The Forum Hyde Park, Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, 7th Floor Hyde Park Corner, 6th Rd

Youth culture comes alive at Cotton Fest

The 2025 instalment of Cotton Fest once again brings alive the best of youth culture this April in Johannesburg.

The sonic and visual festival experience gives a platform to both well-known and upcoming South African talent, who will perform across 3 stages at 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

Keep up with the best music festivals happening in and around Joburg

Studio Artwave creative workshops

Studio Artwave is giving you the chance to let your creativity flow with a selection of fun, art experiences and creative workshops in Johannesburg.

Step out of your comfort zone and learn a new art skill with a variety of workshops in ceramic-making, life drawing, punch needle art, textured art, tote painting, portrait painting, and more. 

Cost: From R250pp to R750pp, book online

When: 3 to 27 April. Various times
Where: Artwave, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg

See the full April workshop schedule

Gourmet food and wine from high above with Steenberg in Sandton

The Steenberg Skyline & Vine on is an exclusive wine pairing dinner event taking place on the San Deck rooftop bar at Sandton Sun & Towers Hotel. This one-night-only event blends fine wine, cutting-edge aesthetics, and an immersive sensory experience, redefining how premium wines are celebrated.

Guests will be among the first to witness the refreshed and contemporary look of Steenberg’s iconic Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc and Catharina, experiencing their first pour in this exciting new identity. 

Your ticket price includes unlimited Steenberg wines, dinner canapes, live music featuring Mo-T Micasa, DJ sets and immersive experiences.

Cost: R1250pp including a dinner, wines and live entertainment, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 10 April from 6pm to 10pm
Where: San Deck Rooftop Bar, Sandton Sun & Towers Hotel, Corner of Alice Lane &, 5th St, Sandown, Sandto

KAMERS/Makers Autumn Market

KAMERS/Makers returns to Sandton with its Autumn show. True to the KAMERS/Makers way, they’re bringing dozens of Makers to Joburg, with lots of brand-new, first-time artisans on show. Attendees can look forward to some amazing old and new talents in fashion, food, wellness, jewellery, décor and much more.

The Autumn event also features food stalls, drinks bars, and lots more. Pets are also welcome, but dogs must be leashed. 

Cost: R100pp (Single Day Pass). R140pp (Multi-Day Pass). Free for u/18s | Book via Quicket

When: Wednesday, 30 April to Sunday, 4 May. From 9am to 5pm daily
Where: St David’s College Inanda, 36 Rivonia Rd, Inanda, Sandton

Dear Evan Hansen at Montecasino

Dear Evan Hansen is on stage at Montecasino throughout the month of April. A Tony Award-winning musical, it explores themes of mental health, loneliness, and the power of social media.

The story follows Evan Hansen, a socially anxious high school student who struggles to connect with others. When a misunderstanding leads people to believe he was close friends with a classmate, Connor Murphy, who died by suicide, Evan gets caught in a web of lies that spirals out of control.

Cost: From R150pp. Prices vary per seating category | Terrific Tuesday discounts are available. Block booking discounts (20% off for groups of 20+) apply to selected shows | Book via Ticketmaster

When: Running from Saturday, 15 March to Sunday, 13 April 2025 | Tuesdays to Sundays at various times. No shows on Mondays
Where: Teatro at Monte Casino, Teatro Road, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Read more about the play

“Monna ke Nku…” group exhibition

“Monna ke Nku…” is a group exhibition curated by Thomas Masingi, featuring works from artists including Thomas himself, Sue Clark, Sango Filita, Nkomene Hlongwane, Wisani Manyisi, Chevy Noir, Oaheng Motsitsi, Kgafela Loate, and Sinenkosi Msomi.

There is a phrase in Sepedi that goes “monna ke nku, o llela teng”. The proverb can be translated as “a man is a sheep, he cries silently”. For the exhibition, the curator decided to omit the second part of the phrase and add an ellipsis. The intention was to make the exhibition open-ended.

“Monna ke nku…” is an exhibition that touches not only on issues that men go through daily but also celebrates the roles they play in the lives of those around them.

Cost: FREE entry

When: Opens 5 April at 11am, running until 5 May | Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 3pm. Saturday from 9am to 2pm
Where: The Viewing Room Gallery, 492 Fehrsen Street, Brooklyn Circle, Pretoria

Tshwane North Ultra

Tshwane North Ultra (TNU) is an official 50km road running event incorporating the half-marathon and the 10km and 5km fun runs aiming in the vicinity of the Magalies Mountains.

It passes through the beautiful landmarks of Pretoria North and West as it creates a circular map of the northern and southern Magaliesberg mountain range via Hornsnek road starting at Akasia Community Hall and going down to the bottom of Wonderboom and coming back to the finish via Berg Avenue.

The ultra marathon is an official Comrades Qualifier. Note that no temporary license can be purchased for the 50km ultra marathon.

Cost: From R70pp to R450pp, enter online

When: Saturday, 19 April from 6am
Where: Akasia Town Hall, 120 Disotus Avenue, Akasia, Pretoria

Find out more about upcoming road races in Gauteng

The Pretoria Youth Theatre presents ‘Peter Rabbit’

Hop into the world of Beatrix Potter with The Pretoria Youth Theatre’s delightful 45-minute interactive theatre experience of ‘Peter Rabbit‘.

Join Peter and his furry friends as they embark on a mischievous adventure filled with laughter, surprises, and audience participation. But the fun doesn’t stop when the curtain falls. After the show, children can take part in a joyful Easter egg hunt, making this a perfect holiday treat for the whole family.

Cost: From R100pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday and Monday, 19 & 21 April. Two showings each day at 9am and 11am
Where: Irene Village Theatre, 1 Pioneer Rd, Irene Security Estate, Centurion

Group Strength Training at CrossFit Menlyn Maine

Energised, mixed group strength training sessions to not only help you become a better runner but to crush your fitness goals with a group of like minded and driven individuals. All pushing together and embracing the grind.

Cost: R99pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursdays, 10, 17 and 24 April. From 6.60pm to 7.30pm
Where: CrossFit Menlyn Maine, Cnr Serene &, Keeshond St, Pretoria

Irene Farm Night Market

Formerly the Southdowns Night Market, high demand has allowed for this popular market fixture to evolve and become the Irene Farm Night Market.

Don’t miss a fun evening under the stars with live music and the best vendors Gauteng has to offer. There is plenty of seating, as the event is on the grass. Bring your picnic blankets and pillows for a more relaxed farm-style experience, and well-behaved pets are welcome too.

Cost: R25pp payable at entry. Kids u/12 enter free | Book an exclusive parking ticket at R50 via Quicket

When: Thursday, 24 April from 4pm to 10pm
Where: Irene Farm, Nellmapius Rd, Irene, Centurion

Railways to Railways Party Bus

The Railways to Railways Party Bus offers one epic ride, and non-stop vibes from Railways Cafe Irene to Railways Cafe Cullinan.

Book a spot and experience ice cold drinks, and a party on wheels every month. At 12.30pm, be at Railways Café Irene, grab some drinks and get in the spirit before the bus leaves at 1pm.

Enjoy good vibes all journey long until the arrival at Railways Cullinan at 2.30pm, where guests get plenty of time to enjoy Cullinan and all it has to offer. The fun continues on the departure back to Railways Irene at 5.30pm, finally arriving at 7pm.

Cost: R200pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 26 April from midday to 7.30pm
Where: Starts at Railways Cafe, 2 Hack Rd, Irene, Pretoria

Keyshia Cole live in Joburg and Pretoria

Iconic American singer-songwriter and Grammy-nominee Keyshia Cole, brings her sultry sound to South African stages to kick off the new year.

Throughout her illustrious career, Keyshia Cole has captivated audiences with her relatable lyrics and soul-stirring voice. From the heart-wrenching ‘Let It Go’ to the empowering ‘Nobody’s Perfect’, along with other hits such as ‘Last Night’, ‘Heaven Sent’, and ‘Love’, her music continues to resonate with fans everywhere.

The tour, originally scheduled to take place in January, was postponed following the loss of the artist’s Los Angeles home in the recent wildfires.

Tickets purchased for the original dates will be honoured at the rescheduled shows. For fans who are unable to attend the new dates, refund options are available.

Cost: R690pp to R1590pp, book via Ticketpro

When: Saturday and Sunday, 26 and 27 April from 6pm
Where: 6 April: Big Top Arena, & Century Rd, Elsburg Road, Carnival City, Brakpan | 27 April: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Get some inspiration on how to spend your Easter in Gauteng