Kicking of the new month this weekend in Joburg are even more kids’ activities, movie screenings, comedy shows, ballets and stage performances, international concerts, a motocross show, live music and more.
The Sankayi Jazz Series presents Thandi Ntuli
Opening the July edition of the Sankayi Jazz Series is multihyphenate South African jazz darling, Thandi Ntuli.
The composer, arranger, pianist and singer has become a significant voice in contemporary music in South Africa. Not only did she win the 2018 Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Jazz, but Thandi has also collaborated with other icons of the genre such as Marcus Wyatt, Thandiswa Mazwai, Spha Mdlalose and more.
Her groundbreaking debut album, The Offering, first introduced us to her silky-smooth vocals, and now, three more albums and plenty of collaborations later, her star power has become undeniable.
Cost: R400pp. It is recommended that you arrive early to have dinner (at an additional cost) before the concert. Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 3 July. Doors open at 6pm, dinner starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg
See the full July series schedule
The Bacchae: An African Choral Ballet
Joburg Ballet and UJ Arts & Culture present The Bacchae: An African Choral Ballet, a world-first Choral Ballet reimagining Euripides’ iconic tragedy through a uniquely South African lens.
The full-length ballet reinterprets the tale with a richness of movement, sound and choral tradition. The tragedy follows Dionysus, who arrives in a divided city promising freedom, ecstasy and spiritual awakening.
As his intoxicating presence sweeps through Thebes, women abandon convention and a chorus of voices rises in ecstatic defiance. Pentheus, the rigid young ruler, vows to restore order and crush the growing movement; but curiosity and desire draw him dangerously close to the very force he condemns.
The production features the powerful voices of the acclaimed UJ Choir and a live chamber orchestra.
Cost: R140pp to R1000pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 3 to 12 July. Various days at 11am, 2pm and/or 7pm
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Fourways Mall presents The Gauntlet
South Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course brings a bouncy blast to Fourways Mall this winter break.
The Gauntlet is taking over the mall’s centre court and transforming it into a giant inflatable park, offering the family a fun and friendly challenge to keep busy and active over the school holidays.
At over 1000 sqm in size, The Gauntlet inflatable park is a first-of-its-kind experience for Fourways Mall, bringing bouncing, climbing, crawling, sliding and racing together in one action-packed course.
Cost: R100pp, book via Howler
When: Running from 26 June to 9 July 2026 | Monday to Wednesday from 1pm to 5pm. Thursday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm | Fourways Mall is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm and Sunday and Public holidays from 9am to 7pm, with free parking available after 5pm every day
Where: Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton
See what else to get up to at Fourways Mall
Constellations at Theatre on the Square
Nick Payne’s Constellations is a spellbinding new stage production showing at the Theatre on the Square.
Through a kaleidoscope of moments between two people, Constellations explores infinite realities in which love, science, choice and quantum theory converge to create various possibilities where hope or heartbreak may be the outcome, begging the question of whether or not love can prevail across every multiverse.
The story follows Marianne, a physicist, and Roland, a beekeeper, who meet at a barbecue. From there, the possibilities are endless. They might hit it off and grab a drink together. They might go home together, or they might part ways. Perhaps their love story has a happy ending, or perhaps it is tragically cut short.
Constellations contemplates how even the smallest change in our lives can dramatically alter the course we take.
Cost: R180 per pensioner; R220pp (general admission). Book via Webtickets
When: Running from 23 June to 11 July | Monday to Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 5pm and 8pm; Sunday at 3pm
Where: Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, West St, Sandown, Sandton
Find out more about this cosmic love story
The Royal Countess Zingara
Step into a world where theatre, performance art and cuisine intertwine in a dazzling spectacle as this sensory affair from Cape Town ushers in a new dazzling chapter in the City of Gold.
Guided by the charming Sandman, Joburg Zingarians are led through a journey of wonder, music, song, spectacle and daring.
Among the world-class artists performing are former Cirque du Soleil aerial cradle specialists Juan Pablo Palacios and Victoria Perez Iacono from Argentina, rola bola balancing marvel Axel Perez from Las Vegas, acrobat Samantha Kotze from Johannesburg and The Clorettes, a vocal quartet from Cape Town.
During the show, guests are treated to a sumptuous four course dinner for palate and soul. See the menu here.
Cost: Tickets start at R1260pp and include a welcome drink, a four-course feast and the full Zingara show experience. Book via dineplan, zingara.co.za or [email protected]. Group bookings can be made via [email protected]. See the ticket info here
When: Running from 25 June every Tuesday to Sunday. Doors open at 5pm and show starts at 7.30pm
Where: Melrose Arch, Corlett Dr, Birnam, Johannesburg
All the details on this stage spectacular
The Goal Zone at Mall of Africa
The World Cup isn’t the only football action taking place this winter as Mall of Africa introduces The Goal Zone, a football-themed school holiday experience perfect for the family.
The Goal Zone is an interactive soccer-themed activity zone where children, teens and even competitive parents can put their skills to the test across seven exciting challenges, designed to entertain a wide range of ages, with selected challenges designed for the whole family.
Activities include a mix of football skills, speed, coordination and playful rivalry, giving young fans the chance to celebrate the game and soak up the excitement around the World Cup.
Cost: R50pp. Tickets available at the activation area
When: Running from 3 to 13 July. Open daily from 10am to 8pm
Where: Mall of Africa, Magwa Cres, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand
Get the details and find out how to win prizes this winter break
City Sightseeing kids’ winter discount
City Sightseeing Johannesburg is making family days out in Jozi super affordable with two amazing specials for South African citizens this winter. Let the kids explore Joburg like tourists in their own city for a huge discount!
They’ll get to ride the famous red open-top, hop-on hop-off bus for the full route, getting epic views of the skyline, historic neighbourhoods and top attractions along the way.
With fun on-board audio commentary, kids learn about Jozi’s history, culture and landmarks as they go, offering the perfect mix of fun and education for a school holiday outing or weekend adventure.
Cost: Only R65 per child, book online
When: Offer valid until 23 September 2026
Where: Starts at City Sightseeing Tour office at The Zone shopping centre, Oxford Road, Rosebank
Oh Happy Days: Clearwater Mall School Holiday activities
Clearwater Mall’s Oh Happy Days school holiday activation gives children the chance to move, play and compete just for fun, whether it’s with mini ten-pin, mini basketball hoops, giant noughts and crosses, a boardgame corner or crafts.
Cost: R50pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 27 June to 11 July | Monday to Saturday from 11am to 7pm. Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Where: Rochester Court – Clearwater Mall (Upper Level), Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort
Find out more about Clearwater Mall’s school holiday activities
Gliding through The Gallery
Gliding Through the Gallery is a guided art walk through a curated selection of Johannesburg’s art spaces, followed by a soiree to connect the art curious community.
The day begins with intimate studio visits with prominent Johannesburg-based artists, offering guests rare insight into artistic process, materiality and the spaces where contemporary culture is being shaped. From there, guests transition into an elevated edition of Breaking Bread, hosted at a beautiful private venue overlooking the city.
Presented in collaboration with Lady Day, the culinary experience frames food as art – inviting guests into a sensory afternoon centred around a thoughtfully curated two-course meal, drinks, conversation, community and panoramic views of Johannesburg.
Cost: R1750pp (includes access to exhibition spaces, drinks, access to Breaking Bread and the two-course meal). Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 4 July from 11am to 6pm
Where: Various galleries in Johannesburg
Sheer City & VNJ Ball present Rebolledo
Sheer City and VNJ Ball return to Joburg with Mexican electronic musician Rebolledo headlining.
Widely regarded as one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary electronic music, Rebolledo has built a global following through his hypnotic blend of deep techno, psychedelic and tribal house, and leftfield club sounds.
Bad Manors and Club AM transform into two stages of pure electronic music bliss, incubating this legendary Newtown complex into a two-dance floor, midwinter melting pot of house, electro, Italo-Disco and Afro.
Supporting acts for Rebolledo include Abby Nurock, Fabio, Richard Marshall and Wata Mami on the main floor and Avi Subban, Baby Whitz x Lelo Whatsgood, Gem, Maison Cher and Tanica Skye at the VNJ Ball floor.
Cost: From R150pp, book online
When: Friday, 3 July from 8pm to 6am
Where: Bad Manors, Alleyway off Quinn, 39 Gwigwi Mrwebi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Schalk Bezuidenhout: Hey Hey Divorcé
Following his public split in 2024, South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout unpacks life as a divorced man in his new comedy special, Schalk Bezuidenhout: Hey Hey Divorcé.
Having had the privilege to perform all over the world in some great venues, alongside some even greater comedians, Schalk’s latest work depicts the real trials and tribulations of single life in your thirties, in his words: “because it’s cheaper than therapy”.
The show is raw, real stand-up at its finest, with emotional and tear-jerking moments in between.
Cost: From R250pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday to Sunday, 3 to 5 July. Various times
Where: The Capital, On the Park, 101 Katherine St, Sandown, Sandton
Washington DC Youth Orchestra at Linder Auditorium
The DC Youth Orchestra performs in Joburg this weekend, continuing its long tradition of cultural exchange through music.
The concert repertoire includes Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s ‘Ballade in A minor’, Raffie McEachin’s ‘The Primordial Orb Dances’ and Kalman Levitin’s ‘Chimera’, Norman Dello Joio’s ‘Variations, Chaconne, and Finale’, Evan Ross Solomon’s ‘Hematite’ and Antonín Dvorák’s ‘Symphony No. 8 in G Major’.
Cost: R100pp (balcony); R300pp (stalls and wheelchair accessible seating); R200pp (West and East Mezzanine). Book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 5 July from 3pm to 5pm
Where: Wits Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg
Springboks vs England
The first-ever Nations Championship opens with the South African national rugby team playing against England in their first match since 2024.
The Nations Championship, taking place every two years, brings together the twelve biggest international rugby teams in the world, and across six rounds, has them compete in a Northern versus Southern Hemisphere tournament to win rugby’s newest title.
Cost: From R950pp to R3000pp. Book online
When: Saturday, 4 July | Gates open from 2pm. Kick off is at 5.40pm
Where: Ellis Park Stadium (Emirates Airline Park), S Park Ln, New Doornfontein, Johannesburg
Taxi Wars: Umzila The Musical
Taxi Wars: Umzila The Musical is a powerful theatrical production that explores the realities of South Africa’s taxi industry and its impact on communities, livelihoods, and everyday survival.
Through music, movement and compelling storytelling, the production captures the intensity, resilience, and complexities of an industry deeply woven into the country’s social and economic fabric.
The story follows Dlamini, a retrenched man who turns to the taxi industry in hopes of rebuilding his life and providing for his family. What begins as an opportunity for a fresh start soon draws him into a dangerous world of violence, territorial disputes and power struggles, forcing him to confront difficult choices in his fight for survival and stability.
Cost: R120pp, book via Webtickets
When: Thursday to Sunday, 2 to 5 July. Various times
Where: space.com at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Strictly Soul presents Masego
Africa’s biggest R&B party, Strictly Soul, brings Grammy-Award-nominated musician Masego to Johannesburg as part of his Fix Your Face Tour.
Referring to his genre of music as “TrapHouseJazz,” Masego has built a global following with records like ‘Tadow’, ‘Mystery Lady’, and ‘Queen Tings’ and his latest world tour kicks off in August, but not before his upcoming performances in Johannesburg and Durban, where he’ll be performing at the Hollywood Bets Durban July.
Cost: From R850pp, book online
When: Sunday, 5 July from 12pm
Where: 4ways Farmers Market, Taroko Farm Modderfontein Reserve, Norfolk Ln, Klipfontein View, Lethabong
See more international acts coming to Gauteng
Aloe Festival
The Aloe Farm kicked off their annual Aloe Festival this June and July, during the peak aloe flowering season, celebrating the aloe gardens as they burst into full bloom.
The farm is also the home of the De Wet Plant Breeders who developed numerous unique Aloe hybrids and many other popular plant varieties such as the famous Agapanthus BLACKJACK, which went on to win the “Best new plant of the Year” at the UK’s RHS Chelsea International Flower Show in 2023.
Celebrate the splendour of this treasured indigenous gem alongside sunbirds and other interesting bees and insects also enjoying the beautiful aloes. The festival also features informative “walk and talks” through the gardens led by Andy de Wet of CND Nursery, master plant breeder Quinton Bean or any one of the farm’s experts.
Cost: Free entry
When: Running from 21 June to 6 July | Open from 8am to 4pm daily. Walk and talks are daily at 11am
Where: The Aloe Farm, R104, Hartbeespoort
Toy Story 5 in cinemas
The fifth instalment of the popular film series about sentient childhood toys sees the toy crew encounter a new foe: technology. The story takes a cue from real life, introducing a technological device that threatens to leave the toys abandoned and obsolete.
Tom Hanks and Tim Allen return to voice Woody and Buzz Lightyear respectively, with the rest of the toy cast being voiced by other all-stars including Craig Robinson, Greta Lee, Joan Cusack, Keanu Reeves and more.
When: Toy Story 5 opened in theatres on 19 June 2026
Where: Select Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro and IMAX cinemas on Disney+
More of the top movies in cinemas this 2026
FRIENDS & FAMILIA
CIRCLES & SQUARES return to &FRIENDS this weekend for their regular hangout, FRIENDS & FAMILIA – a gathering in the name of good music.
This Friday marks the end of their winter residency at &FRIENDS, with a jam-packed lineup featuring the CIRCLES & SQUARES duo themselves, Vinyl ‘n Vibes contributing member Secret Agent, DJ and curator Stayela and pillar of the sound community Rosie Parade.
Buhle Mbongwa is also set to play unorthodox selections, and completing the lineup is a b2b set from Kiggy and celebrated choreographer Mthuthuzeli November (who also choreographed The Bacchae, opening this weekend).
Cost: From R100pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday, 3 July from 4pm to 2am
Where: &FRIENDS, 5 De Beer St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
The Sky Tonight at the Wits Digital Dome
In this hour-long traditional live planetarium show, attendees explore what is visible in the evening sky; from bright planets and seasonal constellations to the Moon and deep-sky wonders, and discover how the sky helps mark time.
Designed for teens and adults, but curious younger children above 5 years with good attention spans are welcome.
Cost: R45pp for kids, students and pensioners, R75pp for adults. Book via Webtickets
When: Friday, 3 July at 7pm; Saturday, 4 July at 12pm
Where: Digital Dome, East Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, Yale Rd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
More shows on the Digital Dome
Lira Live at Silverstar Centre
This intimate performance invites fans to experience Lira‘s artistry up close. With soulful ballads and uplifting anthems like ‘Feel Good’ and ‘Hamba’, guests enjoy an evening filled with emotion, connection and heartwarming moments.
Alongside Lira is special guest and award-winning Afro-soul artist Zamajobe. With her distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and magnetic stage presence, the ‘Ndawo Yami’ singer adds to the night of exceptional talent and powerful storytelling.
Beyond the stage, 100% of ticket sales revenue are donated to charity, making attendees part of a collective effort to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Cost: R350pp, book via Webtickets
When: Friday, 3 July from 7pm
Where: Silverstar Centre, R28, Muldersdrift
Comedy Nights with Mark Banks
In his latest comedy show, Comic’s Choice Lifetime Achievement Award winner Mark Banks, discusses a range of absurd yet relatable topics, including the cost of living, the cost of dying, medical aid, household home invasion preparedness, current gossip, airlines, estate agents, how to invade a politician’s home, survival in the suburbs and money laundering for amateurs.
This interactive show promises an evening of off-the-wall hilarity. The Whirlwind Cafe opens at 5pm, with food and beverages available.
Cost: R180pp; R130pp (pensioner). Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 3 July from 5pm to 8.30pm.
Where: The Whirlwind Theatre, Delta Park, Intersection of Rd No. 3 &, Rd No 5, Victory Park, Randburg
Check out more comedy in Joburg
Disney’s The Lion King JR
National Children’s Theatre’s production of Disney’s The Lion King JR brings the magic of one of the world’s best-loved stories to the stage, with iconic songs and breathtaking choreography. The production is brought to life with the raw, joyful talent of 51 extraordinary young performers aged 7 to 13.
The story follows Young Simba after the loss of his father, Mufasa. He flees the Pride Lands, haunted by guilt and pursued by his scheming uncle Scar. Yet, with the help of the irrepressible Timon and Pumbaa, and guided by the wisdom of those he loves, Simba discovers his true destiny.
Alongside the young cast, the choir of Donaldson Primary School adds a dimension of beauty and community that makes this production truly special.
Cost: R150pp to R200pp. Book via Quicket.
When: Running from 3 to 19 July | Saturday (4 July) and Tuesdays to Fridays from 10.30am to 11.30am and 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Sundays from 10.30am to 11.30am
Where: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown, Johannesburg
More things to do with kids this school holiday
The return of MXGP South Africa
Get ready for a weekend of world-class motorsport as MXGP South Africa 2026 brings the FIM Motocross World Championship back to Africa for the first time in 18 years.
Taking place at Terra Topia in Johannesburg, this landmark event is a thrilling family day out where children and adults alike can experience the excitement of watching the world’s best motocross riders tackle a purpose-built track packed with jumps, twists and high-speed action.
Beyond the racing, families can enjoy a lively festival atmosphere with interactive fan zones, live entertainment, delicious food stalls and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained between races.
Cost: From R550pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday and Sunday, 4 and 5 July from 9am to 5pm
Where: Terra Topia, R114 Falkirk, Diepsloot, Midrand
Cullinan Winter Wine Festival
Top wine estates are set to showcase their award-winning wines at this year’s Cullinan Winter Wine Festival.
Red wines, including award-winning Pinotage, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, Bordeaux blends, not to mention the fortified wines such as Port, Sherry, Muscadel and Hanepoot.
Ticket holders receive a stemless wine glass and unlimited tastings throughout the event. For the non-wine drinkers, there are also a few craft distillers and brewers.
In addition to the libations, there are food stalls, deli stalls and general stalls within the market area, and live entertainment by various artists completes the show.
Apart from the general access ticket, guests can also opt for a food and wine pairing ticket where they can join Beyerskloof and Cullinan Premier Hotel for a food and wine pairing after the festival.
Cost: R170pp; R450pp (Beyerskloof Food & Wine Pairing Cullinan Premier Hotel). Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 4 July from 9am to 5pm
Where: Makers Village, 101 Oak Ave, Cullinan
Kunye
In connecting established and unsung stars to the world, shining a light on South Africa’s colourful soundscape, Kunye has created a cultural movement that celebrates unity and African identity.
This edition of the event features Kunye founder Shimza, Nitefreak, Sun-El Musician, Msaki, Culoe De Song, Mila-Rose, Jnr SA, Trancemicsoul, Stimming (from Germany), The Darque Experience, Sir LSG and Judy Jay.
Cost: From R850pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 4 July from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria, Pretoria
Last chance! Disney On Ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party
Disney On Ice hosts its final showing of Mickey’s Search Party, bringing spectacular special effects, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking performances, dazzling costumes, and beloved Disney characters and stories.
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts. Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic.
Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colourful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen.
Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration.
Cost: From R200pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Running from 28 June to 5 July. Every Wednesday to Friday, at 6pm. Saturday and Sunday, at 10am and 2pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square, Menlyn Maine
Get the details on Disney on Ice
SKOON. x Woolworths Skincare Masterclass
In association with Woolworths, this SKOON. masterclass features consultants guiding skincare lovers through the essentials of achieving healthy, glowing skin and teaching them how to build a personalised routine using the SKOON. range which is tailored to their unique skin type and concerns.
In addition to bumping up your skincare education, attendees also receive a skincare goodie bag valued at R500.
Cost: From R250pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday, 3 July from 1pm to 3pm
Where: Woolworths Centurion Mall, Shop No 1, Centurion Mall, Cnr Gordons Hood & Crawford Streets, Centurion Central, Centurion
The Frog Princess
Directed by Kerry-Anne Beldon and Paegan Whitfield and produced by Clive Martin, The Frog Princess tells the story of a young dreamer who, when she crosses paths with a mysterious prince cursed by a golden ball, discovers that not everything is as it seems.
The Naledi-award-nominated production, brought to life by the talented performers of Pretoria Youth Theatre, features quirky characters, catchy songs, and plenty of laughs along the way. The enchanting show, musically directed and choreographed by Ruth Weiss, takes audiences on a journey filled with heart, humour, and a touch of magic.
Cost: R110pp. Book via Quicket.
When: Running from 17 June to 18 July | Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 12 pm. Fridays to Saturdays from 6pm to 7.30pm
Where: Irene Village Theatre, 1 Pioneer Rd, Irene Security Estate, Centurion
