Whether you’re looking for a day out with family, a romantic evening with a partner, a fun night out with friends, or a relaxing solo mission, the City of Gold has something to offer you. Choose from a variety of events and activities in this roundup of the best things to do this weekend in Joburg and Pretoria.

Celebrate 30 years of democracy with free entry at Constitution Hill

There is perhaps no other site of incarceration in South Africa that imprisoned the sheer number of world-renowned men and women as those held within the walls of Constitution Hill’s Old Fort, Women’s Jail and Number Four.

Nelson Mandela. Mahatma Gandhi. Joe Slovo. Albertina Sisulu. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Fatima Meer. They all served time here, but the precinct also confined tens of thousands of ordinary people during its 100-year history. They were men and women of all races, creeds, ages and political agendas; children too, the everyman and the elite. In this way, the history of every South African lives here.

Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy. The site is a former prison and military fort that bears testament to South Africa’s turbulent past and, today is home to the country’s Constitutional Court, which endorses the rights of all citizens.

Cost: Free tours must be booked via Webtickets

When: Sat 27 April, 10.30am – 2pm
Where: Proud Mary, The Bank, 26 Cradock Ave, Rosebank

Sip and Paint Session with lunch at Radisson Hotel O.R. Tambo

Radisson Hotel O.R. Tambo is hosting a wonderful Sip and Paint morning on Saturday. The experience ties together painting for complete beginners, top-notch bubbles, and a delectable lunch. Sip and paint classes are a safe space where everyone is welcome and encouraged to express themselves with brush and canvas, and the luxurious, well-catered setting of the Radisson is the perfect place for this.

Cost: Sip and Paint experience – R270pp, includes all painting materials needed and two glasses of bubbly. Book online via email [email protected] or call 011 100 4436

When: Saturday, 27 April, from 11am to 1pm
Where: Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre O.R. Tambo, 3rd Ave, Bredell AH, Kempton Park

Zakes Bantwini, Mi Casa, Sun-El Musician and more celebrate South African music and dance on Freedom Day

Zakes Bantwini debuts the very first instalment of Sikelela on Human Rights Day at Constitution Hill. The 1-day music and dance festival marks 30 years of our country’s freedom and celebrates South Africa’s rich heritage through dance and music for all ethnic groups.

Confirmed acts include Zakes Bantwini, Mi Casa, Sun-El Musician, Kelvin Momo, Young Stunna, and more.

Cost: R350pp, book via Howler

When: Saturday, 27 April from 11am to 11pm
Where: Constitution Hill, 11 Kotze Str, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

A Cap Classique tasting with small plates at Proud Mary

For something classy this weekend, join Graham Beck and Proud Mary Eatery for a Cap Classique Masterclass. Indulge in a tasting of four exquisite Graham Beck Bubbly Cap Classiques, expertly paired with modern brunch plates courtesy of resident chef Marc Robert, while you expand your knowledge of MCC and connect with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Cost: R850pp, includes a tasting of 4 sparkling wines and a selection of small plate dishes. Book via email [email protected]

When: Sat 27 April, 10.30am – 2pm
Where: Proud Mary, The Bank, 26 Cradock Ave, Rosebank

See this exciting new revenge film that was shot in Cape Town

Boy Kills World presents a revenge thriller premise, with a focus on taking out an evil elite – and has many reviewers making John Wick comparisons. Boy, whose parents were killed by the evil leaders in front of him during his childhood (Batman, anyone?) was made deaf and mute in the same confrontation – and now, as a young adult, seeks revenge. Teaming up with martial arts (and other) fighters on the same mission, and guided by a mysterious shaman, the young warrior embarks on a gory journey towards toppling the deranged dictator. READ MORE

Cost: From 100pp

When: Opens on Friday, 26 April 
Where: Tickets for the film can be booked at Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro and major cinemas in Johannesburg and Pretoria

Groovy African diaspora tunes at this rooftop bar in Rosebank

Party in one of Rosebank’s most stylish cocktail bars this Friday for Gbedu Nights. The event brings together the modern sounds of our beautiful continent through the gift of sound and dance. Think Afrobeats, Afrohouse, Bongo, Dancehall, Kizomba, Kuduro and other genres that Africa and its diaspora have to offer, from some of the best DJs in downtown Joburg.

Cost: R100pp, via Quicket. R150pp at the door

When: Friday, 26 April from 6pm to 12am
Where: Mix Cocktail Bar, 2nd floor, Trumpet on Keyes, 21 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Try the Reptile Interaction Experience for all ages at Croc City

Brainstorming things to do this weekend with the kids? Meet, hold, and learn about baby crocodiles, snakes and leopard tortoises in this unforgettable close-up experience at Croc City. Suitable for all ages, this interactive class is sure to be educational while also making for an unforgettable weekend.

Cost: General entry fee: R110 (adults), R100 (pensioners), R80 (children) includes access to the experience. No booking is required

When: Daily, 9am to 4.30pm
Where: cnr Cedar & R114 Rds, Nietgedacht, Chartwell AH, Johannesburg

See this experimental theatre work running for a limited time at The Market Theatre

Yangthola!, written and directed by Mongezi Ntukwana is a poignant new one-person play running at The Market Theatre from 25 April to 1 May. The story revolves around a street dweller and recycler who transforms discarded treasures into captivating works of art while skillfully merging puppetry through storytelling.

“Yangthola! serves as a powerful social commentary, shedding light on the harsh realities of South Africa’s unforgiving capitalist system, reminding us all to see the beauty in the overlooked and the resilience in the Marginalized,” says Mongezi Ntukwana.

Cost: R100pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 25 April to 1 May, daily at 7pm
Where: The Market Theatre, 56 Margaret Mcingana St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Easy eats while female DJs take the decks

Beats By Her is a concept party event by Mamthug that gives some of the best female DJs in the city a platform at Untitled Basement. They’re planning another takeover on Sunday with tunes that run until late. 

The experience is hosted at Artivist restaurant in Braamfontein, serving easy and inventive food and drinks.

Cost: R150pp, book via Quicket

When: Friday, 7 July from 7pm until 1am
Where: Artivist, 7 Reserve St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Shop locally-made fashion, beauty and homeware at this boutique pop-up in Sandton

With Mother’s Day around the corner, don’t miss out on an opportunity to shop gorgeous gifts at Sip & Shop’s Pop-Up Experience happening at Cedarwoods of Sandton on Saturday. 27 April 2024.

As for the sipping, get a free welcoming drink upon arrival to savour while you shop the range of home decor, gifting, wines & gin, kiddies wear, weaved baskets and other unique products from local makers. The event is family-friendly too, and once you’re done exploring, you can pop over to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. FIND OUT MORE

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 27 April from 9am to 5pm
Where: Cedarwoods of Sandton, 120 Western Service Rd, Woodmead, Sandton

Rock the mic at Karaoke Kong’s Competition

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or simply love singing your heart out, this karaoke singing competition should be on your list for a fun weekend in Johannesburg. Here’s your chance to compete for ultimate bragging rights and fantastic prizes. The event takes place at boutique karaoke bar and restaurant Karaeoke Kong and offers several great drinks specials as well as free entry. Compete with your friends for a night to remember (and sing about) later.

Cost: Free entry. Book via Quicket to avoid disappointment

When: Sun 28 April, 7.30pm – 10.30pm
Where: Karaoke Kong Bar, Restaurant and Hire

Secret Sunrise Freedom Day Dance At The Bryanston Market

Ignite your soul in an epic dance celebration of freedom at Secret Sunrise JHB Freedom Day Dance, at The Bryanston Market. Attendees are given headsets on arrival and are guided through meditation, breathwork and dance, with some electrifying beats. This is a family-friendly event – children are welcome. All bodies, ages, genders and fitness levels are accepted too.

Cost: R125. Book through Quicket

When: Sat 27 April, 8.30am – 09:30am
Where: 40 Culross Rd, Bryanston, Sandton

Seven Colour Sundays at Soweto Theatre

Arguably one of the top things to do this weekend in Johannesburg for family and friends alike, this popular food and lifestyle market offers an amazing variety of food as well as live entertainment like DJs and live music acts. Guests can also look forward to browsing quality South African fashion, art, crafts, accessories, and home decor. Kids will love the chance to take part in a range of fun activities and make use of the jumping castle and pool.
Gates Opens at 12pm.

Cost: R70 entry. Book through Webtickets

When: Sun 28 April
Where: Soweto Theatre forecourt, Cnr Bolani Rd and Bolani link, Soweto

A new market is launching in Sandton

The folks at Freedoms Kitchin in Sandton are launching Front Stoep Market on Saturday, a new food market at BlackBrick. Choose from a range of food and drink stalls, try one of the games, and Live music and entertainment are also planned for the event. Email [email protected] for more info.

Cost: R30pp, pay at entrance

When: Saturday, 27 April from 3pm to 10pm
Where: BlackBrick 1, 25 Fredman Dr, Sandown, Sandton

Join this queer-friendly quiz night in Ferreirasdorp

Up for something fresh and fun to do this weekend? Test your general knowledge at Trivia Night, a queer event in Johannesburg hosted by Deconformists. The team will be asking you and your crew questions about various topics. There are various prizes to be won.

This is a great opportunity to relax with your besties and meet new people. Food and drink can be ordered for your own account at The Social Table.

Cost: R150pp, book via Quicket

When: Friday, 26 April from 6pm to 12am
Where: The Social Table, 274 Fox St, Ferreirasdorp, Johannesburg

Dress up and unwind for this Brutal Fruit Spritzer’s buzzy fashion party

Dress up in your most glam Brunch-tastic fit for Brutal Fruit Spritzer’s Saturday Brunch, whether it’s a stunning little number with floral prints, something semi-formal in bold colours, or anything in between that reflects your personality. The event is hosted in a tranquil outdoor setting at the scenic Idlewild Country Estate, with a harvest-chic meets elegant garden party atmosphere.

Curated Brunch Boxes with gorgeous bites and nibbles are available for Pre-Order only when you book your ticket. There are also a few fabulous food stalls at the venue serving a range of cuisines all day long. The DJ lineup features some of the country’s top acts who will be spinning vibey beats from brunch well into sundowners.

Cost: R290pp, includes entry fee and a complimentary Brutal Fruit Spritzer. Book online here or directly via Howler

When: Saturday, 27 April 2024, from 11am to 6pm
Where: Idlewild Country Estate, Moonlight Rd, Olifantsfontein, near Pretoria

Flow With Us at Melody Hill

Head to Melody Hill Country Retreat, set on the banks of the Magalies River, for this special event. Kahuna masseuses are invited to join this day of giving and receiving and enjoy the use of the wood-fired hot tub as well as a specially prepared delicious vegetarian lunch. Nestled in a beautiful valley teamed with birds and indigenous plant life, this is a wonderful place to de-stress and spend part of the weekend.

Cost: R300 (includes a vegetarian lunch). Book by calling 082 806 7822

When: Sat 27 April
Where: Melody Hill country estate, 16 R98, Seekoeihoek, Magaliesburg

Freedom Day Hike and Breath Work at Farmhouse 58

Celebrate Freedom Day with fresh air and camaraderie in the Cradle of Humankind. The hike will begin at 7am and cover 7.8km easy gradient and moderate terrain. Afterwards, enjoy a mouth-watering lunch, a curated selection of autumn season-inspired meals, at The Shed.

Note: the hike is limited to 15 people, so early bookings are essential.

Cost: R350 per person. Book here

When: Sat 27 April, from 7am
Where: R540 Kromdraai Rd, Krugersdorp