November 2024: The Best Things to Do This Month in Johannesburg

As the year is beginning to draw to a close, the entertainment is just beginning to ramp up. There is no shortage of exciting things to do this month as we enter the festive season, from festive markets and light festivals to incredible drink and dining experiences, stage performances, exhilarating sporting activities, and the works.

Guests get a tasting at the International Spirits and Wine Fest

An exquisite journey of taste at The International Spirits and Wine Festival

The International Spirits and Wine Festival is making its way to Joburg this month, offering two unforgettable nights packed with the best of what the world of wine and spirits has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply someone looking for a fun, flavour-filled experience, this festival promises to delight.

Taste over 150 wines and spirits from local and international labels, join guided masterclasses led by experts, brush up on your whiskey, cognac, and craft cocktail-making, join a sip ‘n paint, grab some grub and groove to live music.

Cost: From R250pp – What’s on in Joburg readers get 50% off tickets! Use Code TasteIt50% at checkout. Book via utickets

When: Friday, 8 November and Saturday, 9 November | 3pm to 11.30pm
Where: NASREC Expo Centre, Nasrec rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg

An immersive mindfulness wellness experience at Glow and Grow

Glow and Grow, hosted by Your Next Level, is an immersive mindfulness wellness experience designed to help women reconnect with themselves. This event is perfect if you are looking to slow down and give your mind a break.

The event features a guided mindfulness meditation, a reflection and gratitude workshop, a healing sound bath, and the opportunity for attendees to connect and share their journeys with like-minded individuals in a safe, supportive environment.

Cost: From R245pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 9 November from 10am to 2pm
Where: James and Ethel Gray Park, Olifants Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg

Epic gaming, tech and esports at rAge Expo

The much-anticipated annual rAge Expo is bringing the gaming community together once again for the ultimate gathering. If you love video games, technology and geek culture, this is the expo for you!

For the 2024 edition, you can look forward to a jampacked three days of esports tournaments, cosplay contests, jams and hackathons, VR, local gamers showcasing their latest games, and of course South Africa’s largest BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer/Console) LAN.

Cost: R200pp (one-day pass) | R420pp (3-day access) | R620pp for a family ticket (2 adults, 2 kids) | R140pp (Students/Scholar valid for Friday only) | Book via Howler

When: Friday, 29 November to Sunday, 1 December | Friday and Saturday from 9am to 6pm | Sunday from 9am to 4pm
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec), Nasrec rd, corner Rand Show Rd, Nasrec, Johannesburg

Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s Spring Symphony Season

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) is back with its traditional staging of the Spring Symphony Series. This four-week classical music event in Joburg once again promises a fresh lineup of internationally acclaimed conductors and soloists, familiar faces and exciting debut performers.

This year the musical programme includes a repertoire of all-time favourites by Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Mendelssohn and Chopin, as well as widely performed works by Dvorak, Brahms and Bruch.

Cost: From R170pp to R200pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 24 October to Thursday, 14 November | Every Thursday from 7.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg

The Brutal Fruit Spritzer Saturday Brunch is Back

The Brutal Fruit Spritzer Saturday Brunch is bringing another stylish edition to Johannesburg this November. Guests can once again indulge in spritzer cocktails, gorgeous brunching, and pampering treatments.

Upon arrival, guests receive a complimentary Brutal Fruit Spritzer of their choice. For food, there are a few fabulous food stalls at the venue serving a range of cuisines all day long at the event. There’s also a major entertainment treat, with South African songstress Shekhinah taking centre stage joined by the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

Cost: Free, guests are chosen by lucky draw. To get the chance to attend, enter via Brutal Fruit Spritzers competitions

When: Saturday, 16 November from 12pm
Where: GROUND The Venue, Plot 19 Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift

The Bongeziwe Mabandla Tour comes to Joburg and Soweto

The South African leg of Bongeziwe Mabandla’s world tour is currently underway, and two shows will take place at the Linder Auditorium at Wits and Morris Isaacson Centre of Music in Soweto.

The artist will be performing together with his producer and creative collaborator, Tiago Correia- Paulo, and Bruno Saranga. Bongeziwe Mabandla is a singer-songwriter known for his soulful, introspective music that blends African folk with modern indie sounds. Singing mostly in isiXhosa, he brings deep emotion and storytelling to his songs, exploring themes of love, identity, and resilience.

Cost: Soweto show – R200pp, book via Quicket | Joburg show – R300pp, book via Quicket

When: Soweto show – Friday, 29 November from 7pm to 10pm | Joburg show – Saturday, 30 November from 7pm to 12am
Where: Soweto show – Morris Isaacson Centre for Music, 05551 Mtembu St, Jabavu, Soweto | Joburg show – Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg

The Capitec handmadeAFRICA x The Oxford Parks Market celebrates food and design

The Capitec handmadeAFRICA x Oxford Parks Market is planning a festive weekend of African creativity and flavours. This two-day market in Rosebank’s Oxford Parks Precinct brings together over 50 top designers and fine-dining favourites for a vibrant shopping and culinary experience.

Expect to discover a curated selection of handmade fashion, accessories, home décor, and artisanal goods showcasing Africa’s best design talent. You’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for holiday gifting. And when it’s time to refuel, sample street-style bites crafted by top South African chefs, offering delicious twists on their restaurant classics.

Join hands-on workshops in gift-wrapping, cocktail-making, and personal styling to elevate your holiday season. Entrance is free, though advance ticket vouchers are available for easy access and parking.

Cost: R100pp, book via Quicket

When: Friday, 29 November from 4pm to 9pm. Saturday, 30 November from 12pm to 9pm
Where: Oxford Parks Precinct, Rosebank, Johannesburg

WGRUV Dance Company Trilogy of Notes - A Symphony of Dance — Photography: Lauge Sorensen

Trilogy of Notes is a triple bill of modern dance and music works

Trilogy of Notes is a triple bill of captivating works. The programme opens with Vivace Motifs, choreographed by Jessica Lang, whose visually stunning and emotionally resonant piece sets a refined tone.

Permission to Fall is an original creation by Brad Beakes and explores a reflective contemporary narrative enriched by Ryan Lott and YMusic’s evocative score.

The final work titled The Weight of a Moment, is choreographed by Michael Trusnovec. Influenced by music set in the 1950s, June Christy serenades us with her smooth tones and the dancers of WG.UV match her inflexions with the American-influenced, Jazz and contemporary lines.

As the seven movements depict relationships lost, found or hoping to belong to, live instrumentalist Emmanuel Paul plays the base notes.

Cost: Roodepoort Theatre – from R155pp to R220pp, book via Webtickets

When: Roodepoort Theatre from Wednesday, 20 November to Friday, 22 November at 7pm and 3pm, and Saturday, 23 November
Where: Roodepoort Theatre, 100 Christiaan de Wet Rd, Florida Park, Roodepoort

Taste the best Constantia Valley wines at The Steenberg Garden Party

The annual Steenberg Garden Party returns with a selection of wines and delightful treats for guests to indulge in. Hosted by Steenberg Vineyards at the beautiful Beechwood Gardens in Sandton, guests get to wander through the gardens whilst tasting their favourite Steenberg wines paired with delectable treats from the harvest table.

Live music, ample seating and lounge areas keep everyone entertained and relaxed for the duration of the afternoon.

Cost: R850pp including wine tastings, a harvest table, food, a gift and a branded Steenberg glass to take home, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 16 November from 2pm to 6pm
Where: Beechwood Gardens, 25 Christopherson St, Hyde Park, Sandton

Devin Gray How to Get Away With Marriage

Comedian Devin Gray presents ‘How to Get Away With Marriage’

Fresh from a successful run and nomination at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, South African-born comedian Devin Gray is bringing his hit show ‘How to Get Away with Marriage’ to the homefront. The Joburg leg of this stand-up comedy show promises an evening filled with banter, wit, and a hilarious take on relationships and matrimony.

Devin dives into all the intricacies of multicultural relationships, humorously exploring life with his German partner. The comedian weaves together the everyday with the absurd in a way that’s sure to resonate with the audience.

Cost: R120pp, book via Quicket

When: Friday, 15 November from 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: The Artistry, 22 Fredman Drive, Sandton

Elaine is doing a live gig of her new music at Untitled Basement

Untitled Basement is thrilled to present Elaine, one of South Africa’s most captivating voices in R&B and Soul, just weeks after her debut album Stone Cold Heart dropped! Known for her soulful, introspective lyrics and powerful R&B vocals, Elaine’s latest album dives deep into her journey of resilience and self-discovery, blending music with rich, cinematic visuals that bring each track to life.

From hip-hop-trap-soul to genre-crossing anthems, Stone Cold Heart offers an intimate look into Elaine’s transformative moments. “It’s like an open letter to the world,” she shares. “This album is about finding strength in pain and emerging stronger.”

Don’t miss this one-night-only performance as Elaine brings her journey live to the stage.

Cost: R350pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 28 November from 8pm till late
Where: Untitled Basement, 7 Reserve St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Three & Nine Hours of Kyalami - things to do this month of November

The ultimate showdown of man and machine at Three & Nine Hours of Kyalami

Three & Nine Hours of Kyalami is where high-speed battles, razor-sharp turns, and the roar of revving engines collide. The Southern African Endurance Series (SAES) hosts two days of racing, along with a music festival on Saturday and a weekend full of thrills for all motorsport and adrenaline enthusiasts, making it one of the biggest motor sporting events to hit South African soil in 2024.

Other features of the event include live music entertainment from top DJs and performers, a beer garden, a flea market, go-karts, a KidsZone, and a food hall.

When: Friday, 29 November and Saturday, 30 November | Friday from 5am | Saturday from 6.55am
Where: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Cnr R55 &, Allandale Rd, Kyalami Estate, Midrand

Investigative journalist Marianne Thamm is doing a comedy show at Monte

Think South African politics is no laughing matter? Think again! Marianne Thamm brings her sharp wit and humour to the stage in a hilarious, insightful comedy that unpacks how South Africa faced – and survived – State Capture.

As one of the country’s leading investigative journalists, Thamm dives into what went wrong and how the country’s resilience has kept it standing, if a little rough around the edges. In just 65 minutes, this satirical show spotlights the highs, lows, and outright absurdities of South Africa’s journey, celebrating the nation’s strength and tenacity.

Cost: From R180pp to R220pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 14 to 24 November, various times
Where: Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

The 17th staging of the Magalies Gravel Adventure

Started in 2008, The Magalies Gravel/ MTB & Trail Running Adventure is a go-to sports challenge taking place in the mountainous Magaliesburg.

This year’s challenge forms a part of the Annual Black Horse Brewery Christmas market and, once again, offers participants a range of distances and routes to suit different skill levels and preferences. This year, the cycling offering is both a Gravel and MTB Event with 100km, 70km, and 40km distances. And of course there are the wonderful trails on offer at 5km, 10km and 15km distances.

Cost: R340pp to R595pp (cycling) | R130pp to R250pp (trail runs) | Enter online

When: Sunday, 24 November
Where: Black Horse Brewery, 32 Zeekoeihoek Road, Magaliesburg

The Opening of the annual Festival of Lights at Joburg Zoo

Witness the opening of the Joburg Zoo’s Festival of Lights at the end of the month. This year’s anticipated festival features an enchanting collection of illuminated life-size animal characters, entertainment, and a food and craft night market for visitors to the Joburg Zoo.

Guests can enjoy a tranquil walk in the zoo on a lit route away from the animals under trees decorated in enchanting lights. The festival also features sculptures and family-friendly activities.

Cost: R175pp (kids 12+ and adults) | R75pp (kids aged 3 to 12) | R100pp (pensioners) | Free (kids u/3) | Book via Webtickets

When: Opens Thursday, 28 November 2024 until 5 January 2025 | Thursdays to Sundays from 7pm to 10pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo

Saucy encounters at The Sex Expo

The Sex Expo is a four-day sexy shopping and entertainment experience featuring stage shows, workshops and hundreds of stands showcasing products.

The world famous Australian penile artist, Pricasso, will paint unique portraits for visitors. There are also game shows where attendees get their own chance to strut their stuff on the stage in crowd participation events like the popular ‘So You Think You Can Strip’ competition and win prizes.

Other expo highlights include the Miss Nude SA pageant competition, seductive body painting competitions, and the ‘Vegas Strip’ where attendees can try their luck at Strip Poker or Risqué Roulette for the chance to win prizes. Take in live music from the expo’s resident DJs, pole dancing from the ‘Expo Pole Champs,’ and the Theatre of Erotica which is dedicated to specialised workshops and seminars covering a wide variety of sensual areas of seduction.

Cost: From R220pp, book via Howler

When: Running from 29 November to 1 December, various times
Where: Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Drive, Midrand, Johannesburg

A celebration of art, culture, and history through the eyes of Ardmore’s masterful creators

Iconic pieces from the Ardmore brand are put on display and made available for purchase for four exclusive days of luxury indulgence this November.

Visitors get to step into the world of Ardmore’s celebrated ceramic artistry in the luxurious setting of Villa Moji at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and be captivated by a showcase of Ardmore’s intricate designs and exquisite creations, blending the vibrant spirit of Africa with timeless elegance.

Apart from entry to the exhibition, the ticket price includes an opportunity to meet the Ardmore Family and engage with the artistry, a complimentary glass of wine, specialty coffees, and delectable petite pastries. Proceeds from the tickets go to the Ardmore Community fund.

Cost: R80pp | R40pp (u/18s) | Book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 14 November to Sunday, 17 November | Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm | Sunday from 10am to 2pm
Where: Villa Moji at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, 1 Alma Rd, Morningside, Sandton

Janice Honeyman and Joburg Theatre is back with a new panto for the festive season

Janice Honeyman’s quirky pantomime twist on the classic story, Beauty, the Beast and the Enchanted Castle is currently showing at Joburg Theatre. Get ready for a production filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of clever jokes, all brought to life with stunning costumes, lively choreography, and catchy musical arrangements that have entertained audiences for years.

Set on the beautiful Nelson Mandela stage, this pantomime combines innovative staging and cool audio-visual effects for a magical experience. Join Beauty, the Beast, and a bunch of original characters as they take you on a romantic and enchanting adventure. It’s the perfect family outing that you won’t want to miss.

Cost: R200pp to R370pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running until 20 December, various times
Where: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Jordan Rakei graces the South African stage

Talented producer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist Jordan Rakei, brings his soulful sound to Johannesburg following the release of his most recent album in early 2024. His fifth studio album, ‘The Loop’, is a profound exploration of self and sound, showcasing Rakei’s evolution as an artist.

This tour is not just a celebration of Rakei’s latest work, but also a chance for fans to experience his music in Johannesburg’s Marks Park, one of the most beautiful settings South Africa has to offer. This show is staged in accompaniment with English singer-songwriter, JP Cooper.

Cost: R595pp to R695pp, book via Howler

When: Saturday, 30 November from 1pm to 7.30pm
Where: Marks Park, Orange Road, Emmarentia, Randburg

A festive celebration curated by The Linden Market

The Linden Market hosts its annual Festive Market this November and December.

In celebration of the festive season, visitors can look forward to over 150 local artisans showcasing their talents, with the festive edition also offering an array of holiday themed and inspired crafts and promotes a festive atmosphere.

There are also mouth-watering food and drinks, live music and loads of entertainment for the kids. Come and relax with family and friends, tick off some festive season shopping and celebrate the season of lights with a market to remember.

Cost: R50pp | Free (u/12s) | Book via The Linden Market

When: 30 November to 1 December 2024 from 8.30am to 4.30pm
Where: The Linden Market, 45 Thomas Bowler St, Franklin Roosevelt Park, Randburg

See our full line up of Festive Markets

The cast of Gatsby A Cirque Extravaganza

An immersive acrobatic theatrical experience with The Cirk’s ‘Gatsby’

Step into the dazzling world of the Roaring Twenties with ‘Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza’. This immersive theatrical experience brings glamour, excess, and tragic romance to life with a breathtaking fusion of cirque artistry and vintage opulence.

Acrobats soar above in a mesmerizing display of aerial silks, while contortionists and dancers weave through the crowd, embodying the spirit of Gatsby’s legendary parties. Each act unfolds to immerse the audience in the grandeur of the Jazz Age.

Cost: R180pp to R300pp, book via Koid

When: Friday, 1 November to Sunday, 15 December | Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm | Sundays at 2pm
Where: The Cirk, Shop L205a Cresta Shopping Centre, Corner Beyers Naude and Weltervreden Road, Randburg

‘Amadoda on the Verge…[1835-2025]’ by Athi-Patra Ruga

Amadoda on the Verge… [1835-2025] is a series of works set in the bold rouge cube at BKhz Gallery in Rosebank. In this new art exhibition, Athi-Patra Ruga continues the creative discourse around myth-making and martial elements as a contemporary response to the colonial history of the Eastern Cape.

Stop by and be moved by a series of portraits that probe the continued influence of historical tropes on performativity, agency, and representations of black masculinities.

When: Running until Saturday, 9 November | Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 5pm | Saturday from 10.30am to 3pm
Where: BKhz Gallery, 19 Keyes Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Corona Sunsets Summer Tour heads to Harties featuring Mi Casa, DJ Kent, Thakzin and more

The highly anticipated Corona Sunsets Summer Tour returns a lineup of weekend getaways and one-day events designed to capture a nature-inspired, laid-back summer lifestyle.

Centred around South Africa’s breathtaking sunsets, the tour promises unforgettable experiences with a fusion of live music, wellness activities, and scenic locations. As a key feature of the tour, the Corona Sunsets Unwind Experience invites guests to disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with nature and themselves. This innovative wellness offering is led by renowned yoga instructor Jeanae Dumas and combines mindfulness practices, yoga, and breathwork to create a deeper sense of relaxation and rejuvenation, sure to enhance the relaxing vibes of each event.

The full music lineup features Mi Casa, DJ Kent, Thakzin, Darque, Blanka Mazimela, Sir LSG b2b Soul Diva, and Darque.

“The Corona Sunsets Summer Tour is all about spending time in nature and enjoying good music, with
friends. We are thrilled to offer a mix of music, travel, and lifestyle experiences that bring people closer
to nature and each other. This is how we summer,” says Melanie Nicholson from Corona Africa.

Cost: From R200pp, book via Howler

When: Saturday, 16 November from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Villa Paradiso, Hartbeespoort

Jim Jefferies’ ‘Give ‘Em What They Want Tour’

Australian comedian, Jim Jefferies, brings his Give ‘Em What They Want Tour to Pretoria this November. This Sydney native is one of the most popular and respected comedians of his generation, entertaining audiences across the globe with his provocative, belief-challenging, and thought-provoking comedy.

This tour started at the end of 2022 with dates all around Asia, Europe and North America and now South Africans have an opportunity to see him bring the house down, live in their backyard.

Cost: From R795pp to R3080pp, book via Ticketmaster

When: Saturday, 23 November from 8pm (rescheduled from 13 April)
Where: SunBet Arena, Times Square, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Shoppers at the Crafters Fair Christmas Market

Find the perfect gift from a selection of over 250 exhibitors at the Crafters Fair Christmas Market

Get ahead with your Christmas shopping at the Crafters Fair Christmas Market. Held at the Moreleta Church in Pretoria East with exhibitors from as far as Cape Town, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Free State, the market makes shopping for gifts, crafts, and all the weird and the wonderful, that much easier.

It is also an opportunity to support local artists and small business owners creating unique crafts that make for the most special holiday gifts for loved ones.

Cost: R10pp | Free (kids u/12) | Purchase at the door

When: Friday, 25 October to Saturday, 9 November | Mondays to Saturdays from 9am to 6pm
Where: Moreleta Kerk, 1352 De Villabois Mareuil Drive, Moreleta Park, Pretoria

See our full line up of Festive Markets

Catch Bongeziwe Mabandla Tour live at the State Theatre

The South African leg of Bongeziwe Mabandla’s world tour is currently underway, and a special show is ds for the South African State Theatre in Pretoria.

Cost: R300pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 28 November from 7pm to 10pm
Where: The SA State Theatre, 320 Pretorius St, Pretoria Central, Pretoria

Wonder Steam Trains’ steam train tour

Relive the charm of rail travel with a nostalgic steam train tour in Pretoria hosted by Wonder Steam Trains this November. This special tour experience offers passengers a unique experience filled with excitement and adventure.

Your three-hour journey steams ahead with no planned stops, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of steam-powered travel. This is a fantastic outing for families and steam train enthusiasts alike.

Cost: R350pp (adults) | R200pp (kids) | Kids under the age of 3 and sitting on parent’s or guardian’s laps will not be charged | Book via Activitar

When: Saturday, 16 November | Check-in starts at 8am
Where: Meet at Hermanstad Station, 152 Miechaelson Street, Hermanstad, Pretoria

The Signum String Quartet presents Bridges

The Mzansi Chamber Music Collective proudly presents a singular performance by the German-based Signum String Quartet.

Don’t miss out as Florian Donderer, Annette Walther (violin), Xandi van Dijk (viola), and Thomas Schmitz (cello) perform works by some of South Africa’s most original composers. Expect to hear compositions by Abel Selaocoe, Denise Onen, Lise Morrison, Njabulo Phungula, Monthati Masebe, Thandi Ntuli, Neo Muyanga, and Dizu Plaatjies together with Matthijs van Dijk.

Cost: From R200pp (adults) | From R150pp (pensioners and students) | Book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 21 November from 6pm to 7.30pm
Where: Nazareth House Chapel, 290 Florence Ribeiro Ave, Waterkloof, Pretoria

Christmas shopping at KAMERS/Makers Festive Market Fiesta

South Africa’s favourite pop-up market is hosting their annual Festive Fiesta at Menlyn Maine this November. Stop by and do all your Christmas shopping in one wonderful swoop with 160+ of SA’s finest Makers selling everything from fashion to food, skincare to ceramics, jewellery, homewares, and more!

Cost: TBC. Keep up with updates here

When: 26 November to 1 December 2024
Where: Menlyn Maine, Ext 2, Corner Corobay and, Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria