25+ Terrific Things to do This March in Johannesburg

As summer begins to draw to an end, spend the last days of sunshine taking in all the best entertainment on offer this March in Johannesburg. Take your pick from easygoing days at the zoo to a unique vintage fair, a circus spectacular to a one-of-a-kind theatrical debut, music, food and drink, art, and comedy experiences, and so much more.

Johannesburg Zoo is celebrating 121 years with special deals and events

Johannesburg Zoo is one of the top things to do in Johannesburg for nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in wildlife. This green lung offers visitors an immersive and educational experience with a diverse range of animal species.

The zoo celebrates their 121st anniversary throughout the month and visitors can enjoy 50% off on all entrance fees until 28 March. Plus the zoo is offering FREE entrance to all visitors whose birthday is in March.

On Sunday, 9 March the zoo is hosting a birthday edition of their popular Zoo Trot which is a 5km walk or run happening right in the zoo. Gates open at 6am and the run starts at 7:30am. Tickets cost R37pp for the run and must be bought at the zoo entrance

Cost: See the full breakdown of rates here. Note that tickets can only be purchased at the entrance

When: Daily, from 8.30am to 5.30pm. Last entry 4pm
Where: Joburg Zoo, cnr Jan Smuts Ave & Upper Park Dr, Parkview, Johannesburg

Check out all the zoo has to offer

A circus spectacular with ‘Once Upon a Time: Reimagined’

Back by popular demand, The Cirk’s ‘Once Upon a Time: Reimagined’ returns bigger and better than ever before. This mesmerizing show is set to run every weekend throughout the month of March, offering a delightful fusion of classic fairy tales and breathtaking performances that will captivate audiences of all ages.

‘Once Upon a Time: Reimagined’ is more than just a show; it’s a magical journey that brings beloved fairy tales to life through a seamless blend of music, dance, and awe-inspiring acrobatics. The show draws from childhood fairytale classics such as ‘Alice in Wonderland’, ‘Snow White’, ‘Moana’, and more.

Cost: From R180pp to R280pp, book online. All tickets on Opening Weekend 1 and 2 March are 20% off. Prices are already discounted online. No special codes needed.

When: Running from 1 to 30 March | Saturdays at 2pm and Sundays at 12pm
Where: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre, Weltervreden Road and Beyers Naude, Randburg

It’s Human Rights Festival at Constitution Hill

The We, the People Walk is a platform for collective reflection, dialogue, and commitment to the continued values of South Africa’s Constitutional Democracy, particularly centred around the protection and promotion of human rights.

The symbolic 5 km walk hopes for unity among diverse sectors of society, ignite meaningful conversations about the challenges and triumphs of the past two decades and inspire collaborative action towards a more just and inclusive future. A range of activities and discussions run throughout the day.

Cost: Various costs, book via Webtickets

When: Sunday 24 March, from 7am to 1pm
Where: Constitutional Hill Precinct, 11 Kotze St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Hollywood’s newest horror blockbuster The Monkey (2025) hits cinemas

Fans of the horror genre are in for a spoil with the nationwide release of The Monkey, a new film based on Stephen King’s short story. When twin brothers find a mysterious wind-up toy monkey, a series of outrageous deaths tear their family apart. Twenty-five years later, the monkey begins a new killing spree forcing the estranged brothers to confront the cursed toy. 

When: In cinemas from 28 February
Where: The Monkey is showing in Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro, and Movies@ Montecasino cinemas in Johannesburg.

Find out more about the film

An Iftar Buffet for Ramadan

Hyatt House Johannesburg is once again offering a special Iftar buffet menu running for the holy month of Ramadan only. Their restaurants in Rosebank and Sandton are inviting guests to dine on a flavoursome multi-course dinner menu. Whether you’re observing Ramadan or just after a Johannesburg restaurant serving authentic cuisine in a chilled atmosphere, this experience is worth a try.

Cost: R350pp, book via Dineplan to reserve a spot at Rosebank or Sandton. Bookings can also be made via email or call.

When: Running from 28 February to 29 March 2025 from 6pm to 9.30pm
Where: Sandton – The Medley at Hyatt House Johannesburg Sandton, 25 Ann Cres, Simba, Sandton | Rosebank – The Collective at Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank, 28 Tottenham Ave, Melrose, Johannesburg

Find out more about the Iftar buffet

The AJABU Cocktail and Spirits Festival

Africa’s leading Pan African bi-annual cocktail and spirits festival, is back in Joburg for its second consecutive year, connecting top global and local bars in extraordinary pop-ups and masterclasses this March.

The AJABU Cocktail and Spirits Festival takes place at various participating bars in the city, with this year bringing an even richer lineup of acclaimed international bars. Bartenders from some of the finest bars around the world are flown into South Africa to participate in AJABU’s signature ‘bar mashups,’ collaborating and creating delicious cocktails celebrating the incredible diversity of African ingredients and talent.

In addition to the AJABU ‘bar mashups’, you can join a series of seminars and masterclasses suited for cocktail aficionados, bartenders, and beverage industry professionals alike.

Cost: FREE entry. Registration is required via Quicket due to limited capacity.

When: Running from Sunday to Tuesday, 9 to 11 March | Sunday from 5pm to midnight. Monday and Tuesday from 10am to 11pm
Where: Various bars in Johannesburg including Sin+Tax, Smoking Kills, Saint and Obscura

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ at Monte Casino

Showtime Management and How Now Brown Cow bring a brand-new, reimagined production of the hit Broadway musical, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ to Joburg audiences this March.

The musical tells the raw, moving, and inspiring story of a socially anxious high schooler who is suddenly thrust into the spotlight when he inadvertently invents an important role for himself at the centre of a tragedy. As he navigates this complex situation, the musical explores themes of mental health, loneliness, and the human need for connection.

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

Outdoor movie night for Earth Day in a botanical garden

There’s nothing quite like a film under the stars in the evening cool of the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. WWF South Africa will be hosting a special cinema experience in one of South Africa’s most beautiful botanical gardens in partnership with the South African National Biodiversity Institute and the City of Johannesburg.

The classic animation, Happy Feet, will be screened and boasts a powerful environmental message for kids and grown-ups. Settle back with friends and family for a movie and BYO evening picnic, or let one of the food trucks take care of the nibbles for you. Guests are also welcome to bring their own chairs and backrests along for a comfy screening.

Cost: R100pp for adults, R50pp for kids (ages 4 to 18 years). Book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 22 March from 4pm to 10pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort

Loyiso Gola LIVE at Emperor’s Palace

Choose an evening to enjoy the comedic stylings of Emmy-nominated comedian, Loyiso Gola. The comedic giant makes his return to Gauteng to test out new material on audiences. Witness his unparalleled humour live and see exactly why his comedy has earned him worldwide recognition and acclaim.

This time around Gola touches on the cultural moments and pop culture through the years and the way it has shaped our lives. Expect personal anecdotes, observations and hilarious storytelling.

Cost: R255pp, book via Webtickets

When: Friday, 28 March from 8pm
Where: Emperor’s Palace, 4 Jones Rd, Kempton Park, Johannesburg

Johannesburg City Sightseeing Red Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off Tours

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Johannesburg, with the City Sightseeing Red Bus Hop-on-Hop-off Tours.

From the city’s illustrious history of gold mining to its vibrant urban landscape, Johannesburg beckons with a tapestry of culture, heritage, and adventure. The journey takes you through Johannesburg’s past and present, where every street corner reveals a story, and adventure awaits at every turn.

Cost: Online Hop-on-Hop-off 1-day tour (Offer valid until August 2025)— R299pp for adults. R185 per child aged 4 to 17 years | Book online

When: Daily, with first departures at 9am and final departures at 3pm
Where: Rosebank, Outside Holiday Inn Hotel – Oxford Rd | There are also hotel shuttles that do pickups at Southern Sun Sandton, The Maslow, NH Johannesburg Sandton, Radisson Blu Gautrain, and DaVinci Hotel.

Joburg Ballet presents a trip of ballets with Dreamscapes

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’.

DreamScapes also marks the return by Joburg Ballet to the Roodepoort Theatre for the first time in ten years where the company has the honour of presenting the premiere production in the newly renovated theatre.

Cost: From R100pp to R350pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 28 March to 6 April 2025, various times
Where: Main Theatre at Roodepoort Theatre , 100 Christiaan de Wet Rd, Florida Park, Roodepoort

Visit the new and improved Wits Anglo American Digital Dome

A new state-of-the-art Wits Anglo American Digital Dome just opened in February after undergoing major refurbishments.

Formerly known as the Johannesburg Planetarium, the new space anticipates to forever change how South Africans teach, research, and engage with science, technology, business, sport, the humanities and the arts, in a multidisciplinary facility. Book tickets for you and the family and enjoy a 360° immersive experience suited for visitors of all ages, with a variety of weekly shows for young and old.

Cost: R40pp for kids and pensioners, R70pp for adults. Book via Webtickets. See the full lineup of public shows here

When: Tuesday to Saturday. Closed on Sunday and Monday
Where: Digital Dome, East Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, Yale Rd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Fruit-picking at The Field Berry Farm’s Raspberry Festival

Nothing tastes better than berries picked fresh in the height of summer with your own hands. The Field Berry Farm’s Raspberry Festival gives you the opportunity to do just that all the way until April.

This small orchard comes alive with thousands of shrubs for you to pick delicious and ripe raspberries. Picked berries are weighed and priced at R140/kg. While there, why not tuck into delicious food and drinks made with raspberry produce from the harvest.

There are also a few food vendors serving preggo and boerewors rolls, chicken burgers, and Asian street foods such as fried rice, Chicken Chow Mein, stir-fry, dumplings, spring rolls and more, with Halaal-friendly food available.

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

When: Saturday & Sunday 9am to 3pm. The food stall closes at 3pm
Where: The Field Berry Farm, De Deur, 1876 Walkerville. See here for directions

A day of music at Kunye

Kunye connects established and unsung stars to the world, shining a light on South Africa’s colourful soundscape.

This March instalment of the event features sets by DJ Shimza, the mind behind Kunye, along with Black Coffee, Norwegian artist Meera, Jullian Gomes, Artwork Sounds, Mila Rose, Shamiso, The Darque Experience, FKA Mash, and DJs at Work: Vinny Da Vinci x Christos who present a classic vinyl set.

Cost: R350pp to R700pp | R1000 (bundle tickets) | R6 000 – R17 500 (tables) | Book via Howler

When: Saturday, 8 March 12pm to 10pm
Where: Huddle Park, 121 Club St, Linksfield, Johannesburg

A running challenge with the StaminoGro Edenvale Marathon

Join the StaminoGro Edenvale Marathon, a recognised official qualifier for both the Comrades and the Two Oceans Marathon, this March in Johannesburg.

Originally started by the Rand Road Warriors – a small running club in Edenvale, the marathon has now been run for over three decades and has become a highly anticipated running calendar event.

Routes include 42.2km, 15km and 5km race options making it an inclusive event for people of various experience and fitness levels to compete.

Cost: R100pp to R330pp, enter online

When: Sunday, 9 March from 6am
Where: Edenvale High School, Linksfield Rd, Edenvale, Johannesburg

The best in African film and beyond at Joburg Film Festival

The Joburg Film Festival (JFF) is Africa’s Premier Film Festival, curating and showcasing African and International films whilst providing youth and filmmakers with various opportunities for development, training, skills transfer and networking.

This year’s theme is “The Golden Thread – Connected Through Stories”. The 2025 festival explores the essence of connectivity through storytelling, celebrating how this golden thread elegantly weaves through our lives, connecting each part with strength and meaning.

Book your tickets and catch world-class films, join workshops and discussion panels that encourage networking and critical film engagement, and witness as some of the talented filmmakers being showcased are rewarded.

Cost: R300pp to R1500pp, buy your Festival Badge online

When: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 to 16 March
Where: Various venues in Sandton, Johannesburg

Alan Committie Comedy Gold this weekend in Joburg

Alan Committie’s ‘Comedy Gold’

Renowned and award-winning funnyman, Alan Committie, heads to Jozi to stage his annual brand-new stand up offering as he reflects on the year that was.

In ‘Comedy Gold‘, Committie once again awards comedy medals to all the quibbles, foibles, outrageous inconsistencies and multiple inefficiencies that make up modern living in 2024/5.

From elections to appalling selections, this show is filled with all the customary wordplay, physical hijinks and surreal detours into fresh perspectives.

Cost: R150pp to R260pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running until Sunday, 16 March | Wednesdays to Fridays at 7.30pm, Saturdays at 4pm and 7.30pm. Sundays at 3pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Monte Casino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Tems ‘Born in the Wild’ Tour

Joburg, get ready for an unforgettable one-night-only performance by Grammy Award-winning Afrobeats star Tems, who takes the stage in the city of gold this March. South Africans will get to hear the soulful vocals of this international sensation live at the brand-new The Dome venue in Nasrec for her ‘Born in the Wild’ world tour.

Expect to hear some of the star’s biggest hits, including some new favourites from her newest Born in the Wild album like ‘Love me JeJe’ and ‘Burning’.

Cost: R800pp to R1310pp, book via Ticketmaster

When: Thursday, 20 March 2025 from 8pm
Where: The Dome, Nasrec, Johannesburg South

iNtwasahlobo exhibition at STEVENSON Gallery

March is the last chance to see iNtwasahlobo – a solo exhibition of paintings by Simphiwe Ndzube at STEVENSON Gallery.

iNtwasahlobo translates from isiXhosa as ‘spring’, referencing the central motifs and experiments with colour that characterise this body of work. Across this series, female figures are seen in surreal landscapes – watering plants, tending to soil and, most frequently, enjoying inqawe, a traditional smoking pipe typically reserved for ritual use among matriarchs.

iNtwasahlobo probes the complexities of change, growth and renewal, creating the necessary space for contemplation that follows tension. The setting however is no utopia, still holding an element of haunting with figures who keep their eyes closed, and lurking shadows in the background.

Cost: FREE entry

When: Running until Thursday, 20 March | Monday by appointment. Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Saturday from 10am to 1pm
Where: STEVENSON Gallery, 46 7th Ave, Parktown North, Randburg, Johannesburg

iNkosi uShaka concert JPO — Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra in session

Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Season

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra presents a series of incredible concerts in the Summer Season of their esteemed World Symphony Series (WSS).

The March series features popular conductors Mark Kadin, Bernhard Gueller, and Daniel Boico with talented soloists including award-winning Spanish pianist Leo de Maria, Mexican-American pianist Gustavo Romero, and a trio performance by South African-based violinist Miro Chakaryan, celloist Anmari van der Westhuizen, and pianist Ben Schoeman.

Programmes include all-time favourites and magnificent works by Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Haydn, Tchaikovsky and more.

Cost: From R180pp per concert, book via Quicket

When: Every Thursday until 20 March | 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, Wits Parktown Education Campus, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg

A biking adventure with Emperors Palace Classic

The Emperors Palace Classic is back for yet another action-packed bicycle race to the finish line this March in Johannesburg.

The event is set to depart in Kempton Park and features 98km and 48 km routes that participants are welcome to choose from. Given the long-distance journey ahead it is advised that cyclists arrive prepared with all the necessary equipment they might need throughout the day.

The race is a great way to not only explore the outdoors, but to also connect with other likeminded cyclists who are experienced in the sport. It provides a holistic wellness experience that is both beneficial for the mind and body.

Cost: From R350pp to R570pp, book online

When: Sunday, 23 March from 6.15am
Where: Emperors Palace, Jones Road, O.R. Tambo, Johannesburg

Amakrwala Black Hill by Lindokuhle Sobekwa — ‘Amakrwala Black Hill’ by Lindokuhle Sobekwa

Umkhondo: Going Deeper by Lindokuhle Sobekwa

The Johannesburg Art Gallery, in collaboration with Goodman Gallery, presents Umkhondo: Going Deeper, Lindokuhle Sobekwa’s first solo exhibition at the museum, following his 2023 FNB Art Prize Award.

Umkhondo: Going Deeper unites two significant and interconnected bodies of work — ‘I carry Her photo with Me’ and ‘Ezilalini (The Country)’ — seen together for the first time. The exhibition showcases Sobekwa’s journey of introspection and discovery as he wrestles with absence, loss and belonging.

It reflects his deep interest in (re)enactments of memory, personal histories and lived realities while also drawing attention to broader societal issues through a lens-based practice that spans over a decade.

Cost: FREE entry

When: Running until Sunday, 23 March | Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Saturday from 9am to 2pm
Where: Goodman Gallery, 163 Jan Smuts Ave Parkwood, Johannesburg

Jazz in the Lights at Joburg Zoo

The Jazz in the Lights Music Festival at Joburg 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.

The jam-packed lineup includes groundbreaking artists such as Thandiswa Mazwai, Nomfundo Xaluva, Ndabo Zulu, Feya Faku, The Brother Moves On, Iphupho L’ka Biko, Amanda Black, Colbert Mukwevho, Kekelingo, The Prisoners of Strange, Khaya Mahlangu, Litsomo, Gabi Motuba, and many more.

Cost: R350pp (adult) | R200pp (pensioners and students) | R100pp (children u/12) | Book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 29 March from 10am
Where: Joburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Johannesburg

See more of the best festivals in Johannesburg this year

Epic Karting in Muldersdrift

Get a heavy dose of adrenaline at Epic Karting, a go-kart racing track in Johannesburg. The venue boasts a 580m tar track with harsh hairpins and long straights, and 22 Pro Karts are available. Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping adventure unlike any other as you immerse yourself in the thrill of high-speed racing.

Cost: From R250pp for 10minutes, book online

When: Tuesday to Thursday, 11am to 6pm. Saturday, 9am to 8pm. Sunday, 9am to 6om. Closed on Monday
Where: Syringa Park, Avianto Estate, Muldersdrift

Find out more about Epic Karting

Unique antiques and collectibles at Pretoria’s Vintage & Decor Show

On Human Right’s Day, Pretoria’s Vintage & Decor Show is hosting another outdoor pop-up event not to be missed. The wildly popular market will transform Irene Village Mall in Centurion into a special edition ABBA Greek Food and Music Fest over the public holiday long weekend.

This special public holiday edition features everything that you have come to love about Pretoria’s Vintage & Decor Show, from the over 120 stalls to pick and choose from to the family-friendly environment.

Apart from the usual market staples, the ABBA Greek Food and Music Fest brings additional features such as a live performance by artist Costa, belly dancing, traditional folk dancing, plate breaking at Mythos, a Food Village celebrating mediterranean cuisine, and lots of ABBA tunes.

Cost: FREE entry

When: Friday, 21 March from 8.30am to 5pm
Where: Irene Village Mall, Cnr of Nellmapius Dr &, Van Ryneveld Ave, Irene, Centurion

Sips and sun at the Schweppes Pretoria Gin Festival

The Schweppes Pretoria Gin Festival is, once again, bringing Pretorians an incredible variety of craft gin brands to indulge in this March.

Apart from exquisite craft gins, the event features an assortment of food trucks, and as ever, some of SA’s top DJs on the decks. Each ticket also includes a complimentary gin cocktail on arrival.

For those who want to add to the experience, there is a Sip and Paint session ticket that can be booked which includes general festival access along with an hour-long Sip and Paint class guided by an art tutor.

Cost: R290pp | R550pp (sip and paint ticket) | R850pp (VIP ticket) | Book via Howler

When: Saturday, 8 March from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Fire & Wine Venue, R631, Plot 43, Zwavelpoort, Pretoria

Three days of music, camping and nature at Mieliepop Festival

Looking for an adventure just outside of Gauteng? The 2025 edition of Mieliepop festival returns to Lothair, Mpumalanga for another epic music takeover this March. This three-day outdoor music festival is known for bringing together some of the top bands in indie music and party feels set against a serene atmosphere featuring beautiful lakes, swimming pools, and rolling lawns.

The 2025 lineup promises a mix of local and international artists, promising an eclectic musical journey for attendees. Highlights in the lineup include Van Pletzen, Internet Girl, Ruff Majik, Aya Nixon, Mbali Ntombi Yesizwe, and many more.

Cost: From R900pp, book via Plankton

When: Thursday to Saturday, 13 to 15 March
Where: Tolderia Resort, Lothair, Ermelo, Mpumalanga

Goo Goo Dolls LIVE in Pretoria

The Goo Goo Dolls tour South Africa in March of 2025 (postponed from December 2024), stopping in Pretoria for an unforgettable evening of music.

This multi-platinum-award-winning rock group holds the record for Most Top 10 Singles ever. Hailing from Buffalo, New York, the band – formed in 1986 – includes guitarist/vocalist John Rzeznik and bassist/vocalist Robby Takac.

This concert takes place at the historical Voortrekker Monument and is a magical experience set to feature a string of smash hits including ‘Iris’, ‘Slide’, and ‘Name’. South Africa’s own Ross Learmonth, Matthew Mole and Roan Ash form part of the lineup as supporting acts.

Cost: R845pp to R1250pp, book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 29 March
Where: Voortrekker Monument, Eeufees Road, Groenkloof 358-Jr, Pretoria

Sting 3.0 Tour at SunBet Arena!

Multiple-award-winning international artist, Sting, shakes things up with the launch of his 3.0 Tour, which features two stops in South Africa, finishing in Cape Town.

Sting is accompanied on tour by virtuoso guitarist and longtime collaborator, Dominic Miller, and dynamic drummer Chris Maas (Mumford & Sons, Maggie Rogers). With their support, the groundbreaking solo artist and former front man in the seminal group, The Police, performs some of the most electrifying hits from his timeless discography for his adoring South African fans.

Book tickets for the tour and bear witness to a new dynamic era for the star, showcasing selections from his vast catalogue through the urgent lens of a tight three-piece combo.

Cost: R1 140pp to R4 740pp, book via Ticketmaster

When: Saturday, 22 March from 8pm
Where: SunBet Arena, Time Square, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria