2026 has arrived, and what better way to celebrate a brand-new year than with a brand-new selection of fantastic things to do this January in Johannesburg? Celebrate new beginnings and try something new or enjoy more of the same excitement that the city has to offer.
Experience everything from theatrical showstoppers to international musical performances, thought-provoking art exhibitions, getaways, and more.
Music, stage shows and more in Johannesburg
New shows at the Wits Digital Dome
The cosmos is stranger, bigger, and more mysterious than we ever imagined. Everything we see – stars, planets, galaxies — makes up less than 5% of the universe.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Wits Anglo American Digital Dome,
The first 2027 edition of the Sunday Society Picnics
Sunday Society Picnics made a grand return, with dates set all the way through to summer.
A chic outdoor affair set in The Maslow Sandton’s lush gardens, guests can look forward to a stylish and elegant afternoon of live music, gourmet baskets, and Graham Beck bubbly.
The dress code for the picnic is Sparkle in the sun with earthy tones, breezy silhouettes, and flowy fabrics. Think sequins, metallic fabrics, and sun-kissed accents that catch the light from every angle.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Lawns of The Maslow, Cnr Grayston Dr & Rivonia Rd, Sandton
What’s on the menu
Biogen 21k
Annually in January
The Biogen Half Marathon kicks the year off with winding routes through the hills of Bedfordview, Morninghill and Primrose.
This is the perfect kickstart to the running calendar. There are 6000 entries available for the 21km race and all entrants will receive a race T-shirt, medal and goodie bag. The SmectaGO 5km Fun Run is also back and there are 1000 entries available, and all entrants will receive a goody bag and medal.
Funds will also be raised for the two race charities: Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation. All donations by runners, over and above their entry fee, will be matched by the Dis-Chem Foundation.
Cost: TBC
When: Sunday, 10 January
Where: Bedfordview Country Club, Van Buuren Rd, Bedfordview
Michelin 24H Kyalami
The Michelin 24H Series is an international endurance racing championship making its official debut in South Africa, allowing motorsport fans to be part of a historic first for international endurance racing.
The event takes place at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, marking the first international 24-hour endurance race in South Africa. Over two days, international GT and touring car teams take on the challenge of racing continuously day and night, battling for 24 hours around the demanding Kyalami circuit.
Cost: From R250pp, book via Howler
When: Friday, 8 January to Sunday, 10 January
Where: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Cnr R55 &, Allandale Rd, Kyalami, Midrand
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.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg
The Blueberry Hill Hotel Bridal Expo
It’s going to be an unforgettable day of elegance, inspiration and bridal bliss at the Blueberry Hill Hotel Boutique Bridal Expo. Set within the chic, intimate surrounds of this beautiful boutique hotel, the expo brings together a curated selection of leading local wedding vendors under one stylish roof.
Browse handpicked exhibitors, enjoy live demonstrations, and uncover everything you need to bring your dream wedding to life — from décor and fashion to florals, beauty and planning essentials.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Blueberry Hill Hotel, Blueberry Street, Honeydew, Roodepoort
The Park-off 5, supercar display
The streets of Sandton are set to come alive with speed, style and pure automotive adrenaline as The Park-off 5 rolls in for an exclusive, supercar showcase. This thrilling event brings together some of the world’s most powerful and luxurious supercars up close.
Expect an impressive line-up of sleek Lamborghinis, roaring Ferraris and cutting-edge hypercars, each turning heads with unmistakable design and performance. Whether you’re a dedicated motoring enthusiast or simply drawn to the excitement of horsepower and sound, the Park-off 5 promises an electric atmosphere, live
demonstrations and unforgettable moments.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: TBC
Christmas comes alive at the Festival of Lights
The annual Johannesburg Festival of Lights will continue to run over the first few days of January and features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters, harmonious entertainment, and a food and craft night market for visitors at the Johannesburg Zoo.
Patrons 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: Running from 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview, Randburg
Secret Sunrise: Step into 2027
Get ready to start the year on the right foot with Secret Sunrise JHB: Step into 2027.
This event is all about setting healthy intentions and giving the body and spirit the love it deserves as we welcome the new year. Expect guided silent dance with uplifting beats, breathwork, and a community of movers focused on starting 2026 strong and with joyful intent.
The hour-long session blends elements of movement, connection and meditation to deliver a holistic light workout experience for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Cost: From R100pp to R165pp; from R125 per kid u/12. Book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 24 January from 8.30am to 9.30am
Where: Milk Bar at George Lea Park
Holiday escapes and getaways this January
Visit the Aquadome at Emerald Resort and Casino
Enjoy summer in Emerald Resort and Casino‘s Aquadome as you take a dip in the climate-controlled swimming park. Kids will love the waterslide and shipwreck, and everyone can enjoy drifting along the lazy river.
Note that the Aquadome fills up quickly, so be sure to get there and secure your spot early. Entry to the Aquadome includes a free round of Adventure Golf and Wall Climbing.
Cost: School and public holidays + weekends – from R150 per adult; from R90 per kid u/12; from R70pp for chalet residents; R60 per pensioner.
When: Open daily for two sessions. Session 1 is from 9.30am to 2.30pm; session 2 is from 3pm to 8pm
Where: Aquadome in Emerald Resort and Casino, 777 Frikkie Meyer Blvd, Vanderbijlpark
Tyla
Tyla has emerged as one of South Africa’s most successful and celebrated artists ever since her 2023 smash hit ‘Water’, which earned her a Grammy for Best African Music Performance in 2024, garnered critical acclaim and cemented her as a global superstar.
Since then, she’s released more hit singles, establishing herself as one of Africa’s fastest-rising stars. Over the years, she’s been renowned for her captivating performances, infectious energy, and stylish stage presence, continuing to win fans globally while proudly showcasing South African talent.
Tyla’s A*POP World Tour is in support of her recently released and highly praised sophomore studio album, A*POP. The 14-track album features hits ‘Chanel’, ‘Is It Love’ and ‘Fairytale’ (featuring Liquideep).
Cost: R962pp – R1822pp. Book via Ticketmaster
When: Friday, 8 January, and Saturday, 9 January 2027, from 8pm.
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
