This weekend in Joburg is one of culture, music, drinks, dance, and so much more. Don’t miss out on the country’s premier documentary festival, beer festivals, music by international stars, breathtaking dance experiences, and comedy shows, all happening this weekend.

The Wild Wild West cowboy-themed market and live music

Syringa Park is set to transform into a scene straight out of the Wild West for one weekend. With free entry and festivities kicking off from 9am, it’s the perfect weekend escape for the whole family.

Don your boots and dust off your cowboy hats for two days of country-style fun. From lively Wild West competitions and exciting prize giveaways to a treasure-filled car boot sale, there’s something to delight every visitor. Stroll through The Local Market’s vibrant stalls, enjoy a fantastic line-up of live music, and treat yourself to gourmet street food and a refreshing pint in the beer tent.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, come dressed in your finest Western gear and soak up the atmosphere.

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 21 June and Sunday, 22 June from 9am to 4pm
Where: Syringa Park, Portion 61, Driefontein Farm, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift

Encounters Documentary Festival

The 2025 Encounters Documentary Festival opens this weekend in Joburg, showcasing documentaries from over 40 countries, a boundary-pushing selection of 31 short films, panel discussions, and community screenings at various venues in Johannesburg for 11 straight days.

See the full list of films and the festival schedule here.

Cost: Free entry for panels, discussions and Q&As. Film tickets are from R90pp, book online

When: 19 to 29 June 2025. Various times
Where: The Zone, 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank | The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark | Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood

 See what’s in store for the 2025 Encounters festival

Express Glow-Up Promotion – Mid-Year Self-Care Treat at Woodlands Spa

Perfect for a little winter pick-me-up – a relaxing manicure and pedicure (excluding paint) to refresh and revive. By booking this treatment, you save R140!

Cost: R500pp. Book via email at [email protected] or by tel.

When: Running until 30 June 2025. Valid Monday to Friday & Sundays in June
Where: Woodlands Spa, R114 (next to Avianto), Muldersdrift, Gauteng

Check out more relaxing treatments from Woodlands Spa

Explore established and emerging artists at the Roedean Art Fair

Roedean School (SA) is hosting its annual Art Fair, a three-day celebration of artistic talent, creativity, and meaningful connection from 19 to 21 June 2025. The school will be transformed into a lively cultural space, welcoming art enthusiasts, collectors, students, and the wider community.

This year’s exhibition features an inspiring selection of work from Artist Proof Studio, The Gallery, and other esteemed South African artists. Roedean’s own students will proudly showcase their creations, exhibiting alongside rising stars and established professionals in the national art scene.

Rooted in the values of learning, exposure, and engagement, the Art Fair invites guests to explore the creative process and gain insight into the world of professional art. A highlight of the programme is Introduction to Buying Art, a panel discussion offering valuable guidance for new and experienced collectors alike.

Cost: From R50pp, book via Quicket

When: Running from 19 to 21 June,
Where: Roedean School, Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg

Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s Winter Symphony Season Concert 3

Conductor Conrad van Alphen delivered a splendid show for the Winter Symphony Season last year, and he’s back in Joburg once more to join the JPO alongside with violin soloist Andrey Baranov.

The programme features performances of Debussy’s Symphony in b minor, Lalo’s ‘Symphonie Espagnole’, Op. 21 in d minor, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, Op. 68 in F Major, “Pastoral”. Expect a rollercoaster of moods that all ends on a tranquil note.

Cost: From R170pp, book via Quicket

When: Thursday, 19 June at 7.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg

Prepare for the final concerts in the Winter Symphony Season

Link up with new people at this daytime pizza and gelato groove

Third Spaces ZA is hosting another meetup on Saturday, this time around in partnership with Baglios Gelato and Andiccios Pizza. Expect a unique blend of brews, the finest artisanal ice cream, pizza and beats as they disrupt everyday spaces into vibrant parties. JC Moreira and El Kupa will churn out vibey sounds from the decks.

The event is all about turning ordinary spaces into extraordinary places while giving complete strangers a chance to connect or just hang out with your friends.

Entry fee is R50pp and the first 50 guests get a FREE YAAWK coffee. There’s also a special offer on a Margherita pizza and gelato combo for just R135 during the event only.

Cost: R50pp entry fee, book via Quicket. Cost for pizza and gelato is R135pp, to be settled at venue

When: Saturday, 21 June from 11am to 1pm
Where: Baglios, Parkhurst (Next to Andiccios Pizza), 7 4th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg

Silent Treatment Exhibition Part 3

House on the Hill’s Silent Treatment is a 4-month long multidisciplinary arts project celebrating the diversity and creativity of South African jazz, bringing together curated photographic and textual installations that document the journey of the House on the Hill Jazz Community Showcase Series, split into 24 episodes.

Live event 3 features visionary pianist and vocalist Yonela Mnana, performing with his trio Threequency, featuring Gontse Makhene (percussion) and Lebogang Ledwaba (violin) to create a truly original sonic experience.

Exhibition part 3 features Episodes 13 to 18 of the Jazz Community Showcase Series, which feature performances by the likes of the Malcolm Jiyane ‘Uprize’, Manana, Linda Sikhakhane, and more.

Cost: Though the live event is sold out, the exhibition will be open to the public for free

When: Live event 3 is on Friday, 20 June 2025 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Exhibition part 3 opens on 20 June from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and closes on 21 July 2025
Where: Goethe-Institut South Africa, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg

See the full installation schedule

Ons Vibe Afrikaans brings two days with the coolest Afrikaans music acts

Joburg’s winter live music calendar heats up with the 2025 edition of Ons Vibe Afrikaans, a spectacular mixed-genre live music showcase happening at The Lyric Theatre this weekend.

Expect an electric atmosphere filled with passion, energy, and pure vibes. The Friday night performances are headlined by Chris Steyn, Eloff, and the always electrifying Early B. Catch local legends Jack Parow and the rising stars of Droomsindroom on one stage for the Saturday concert. 

Cost: From R180pp to R500pp, book via Webtickets. Plus Gold Reef City Rewards cardholders enjoy up to 30% discount

When: Friday, 20 June and Saturday, 21 June, at 7.30pm on both nights
Where: The Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City, Corner Of Northern Parkway &, Data Cres, Ormonde, Johannesburg South

Find out more about Ons Vibe Afrikaans

Bongeziwe Mabandla and Sun-El Musician to headline the free Fête de la Musique concert

The French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) is hosting the exciting 14th edition of Fête de la Musique Joburg at Victoria Yards this weekend.

This cultural and music event is free to join and you can look forward to an electrifying array of talent spanning established icons and emerging artists. The event headliners include local icons Sun-El Musician and Bongeziwe Mabandla. A lengthy all-day lineup of local DJs and performers will also feature.

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 21 June from 1pm to 7pm
Where: Victoria Yards, 16 Viljoen St, Lorentzville, Johannesburg

High-energy dinner theatre at Sass After Sunset

Sass After Sunset at Eclipse Restaurant is a bold, fresh and hot theatrical dining event bringing live entertainment, high-energy performances and just the right touch of drama to Joburg.

Expect a welcome drink on arrival and a two-course set menu. The dress code is smart casual—effortless yet impressive.

Cost: R550pp for the full experience; R250pp for the show only. Reserve your table via Dineplan

When: Friday, 20 June from 6.30pm
Where: Eclipse Restaurant at Hotel Sky Sandton, 150 West Street Corner West Street and Maude St, Sandton

A two-for-one night stay at Hotel Sky

Hotel Sky is bringing double the nights and double the vibes for half the price. Are you ready for a city escape that doesn’t break the bank? For a limited time only, book one night at Hotel Sky Sandton and get the second night completely free. The deal also includes daily breakfast and allows two guests.

Cost: Rooms start at R1328 per night. Book directly via tel.

When: Running from 18 May 2025.
Where: Hotel Sky Sandton, 150 West Street Corner West Street and Maude St, Sandton

See what else is on at the Hotel Sky

Goliath & Goliath present The Happiness Economy

Jason and Nicholas Goliath, the brother comedy duo of Goliath & Goliath, bring their latest comedy special, The Happiness Economy to Montecasino.

Dive into the minds of these comedic powerhouses as they explore the hilarities of daily life, relationships, and the quest for joy in their signature style that has captured hearts nationwide.

Cost: R200pp to R250pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 18 June to 6 July. Wed to Sat at 7.30pm | Sat also 4pm | Sun at 3pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Check out more laugh-out-loud comedy shows in Joburg

Louise Carver live for this music and dinner experience

The Music Box is hosting an intimate, one-of-a-kind live music experience limited to just 65 guests. Your guest performer for the evening Louise Carner, who needs no introduction. 

It’s a rare opportunity to truly connect with the stories and lyrics behind this famous South African singer. The event is set in a beautifully curated venue with world-class sound, red wine, delicious warm food, and soulful sounds – the ultimate treat for music lovers.

Cost: R725pp, including dinner, all drinks including alcoholic beverages, dessert and tea/coffee. Book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 21 June from 7pm to 10pm
Where: The Music Box, 191 Frances St, Observatory, Johannesburg

Drakensberg Boys Choir at Music in the City

The Music in the City promises to be a world-class experience featuring music from the internationally acclaimed Drakensberg Boys Choir, also known as Drakies.

Look forward to a rich musical line-up showcasing a tapestry of musical genres, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary and well-known African and Afro-Pop works, under the baton of the new Drakie conductor, Jacques Linde.

On Wednesday and Thursday, Drakies host guest choirs in the Voices of Unity Choral Celebration concerts.

Cost: R200pp to R420pp, book via Webtickets

When: Wednesday to Saturday, 18 to 21 June. Wed to Fri from 6.30pm | Sat from 7pm
Where: Nelson Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Craft X presents Christmas in July

Experience the magic of the holiday season in the heart of winter with Craft X’s Christmas in July Market.

The one-of-a-kind Market is bringing festive cheer early this year with a delightful celebration for the whole family. Expect unique, artisan-made treasures perfect for early festive shopping, and beautiful seasonal decor to bring Christmas charm to the home.

Delicious Christmas treats are also on the cards, from creamy fudge and crumbly biscuits to melt-in-your-mouth chocolates and more. The cozy holiday vibes make this the perfect winter outing.

Cost: Free entry

When: Friday, 20 June to Sunday, 27 July. From 9am to 8pm daily
Where: Silverstar Outdoor Event Area, Silverstar Casino, R28, Muldersdrift

The Jailbreak Ride

The Jailbreak Ride at the Prison Break Market invites riders of all fitness levels to hit the trails on the shortest day of the year.

Join for an epic mountain bike adventure with themed outfits whether that be the classic stripes or going full undercover. This thrilling mountain bike ride will “Break” riders out prison, to the freedom of the trails.

Riders can opt for a quick getaway (10km ride), a steady escape (20km ride), or the ultimate breakout challenge (40km ride). The best-dressed escapees, the most daring fugitives, and the most committed convicts will be awarded. Plus, expect thrilling giveaways and unexpected “prison checkpoints” along the way.

Cost: R165pp (10km), R250pp (20km), R390pp (40km) | Enter online

When: Saturday, 21 June. Ride starts at 7.30am, race number pickup is open from 6am to 7.30am
Where: Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Johannesburg

WGRUV Dance Company presents Letters of Reflection

WGRUV Dance Company will do another season of “Letters of Reflection” due to popular demand. This time around the production will be staged at The Cirk in Randburg from 20 to 22n June 2025. The evocative show features seven original works by Holly and Lex Gruver, alongside the beloved Unsquared by American choreographer Tyler Gilstrap.

Each piece unfolds like a letter—intimate, emotional, and expressive. The dancers, trained in contemporary ballet, combine fluid freedom with striking technicality. Themes of love, loss, memory and hope are woven throughout, offering moments that stir both heart and mind.

Audiences of all ages are invited to see the world anew.

Cost: R199pp for adults, R169pp for pensioners, and R99pp for kids 12yrs and under. Book via Koid

When: Friday, 20 June and Saturday, 21 June at 7pm. Sunday, 22 June at 3pm
Where: The Cirk, Shop L205a Cresta Shopping Centre, Corner Beyers Naude and Weltervreden Road
Randburg

Beer & Gin Mile

The beer and gin mile is all about having fun. Running and drinking enthusiasts alike come together to test their fitness levels and stomach capacity in a race to consume four beers or four gins over a distance of 1.6km faster than other competitors.

Cost: R250pp, R800 for a group of four | Enter online

When: Saturday, 21 June. Register and start your race anytime between 8am and 11.30am
Where: The Campus, Sloane Street, Bryanston

A bold installation performance opens at The Market Theatre

Internationally acclaimed performance artist and NYC Bessie Award winner Albert Ibokwe Khoza joins forces with celebrated South African director Princess Zinzi Mhlongo to present The Black Circus of the Republic of Bantu. This bold, installation-based performance is a haunting and poetic exploration of fractured ethnic pride and the violent legacy of colonial objectification.

Through powerful visual language and visceral storytelling, the work confronts the pseudo-scientific dehumanisation of Black bodies — once studied and displayed as curiosities, as though of a different species. It questions what we inherit, what we bury, and what must be unearthed.

At its core, the performance is an offering to Sarah Baartman and countless others whose bodies were exploited. It is a ritual of remembrance, resistance, and reclamation.

Cost: From R120 to R150pp, book via Webickets

When: Running until 29 June, various times
Where: The Market Theatre, 56 Margaret Mcingana St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Worthogs’ Winter Beer Festival

This year’s Worthogs’ East Rand Winter Beer Festival brings a great lineup of homebrewed winter beers, which patrons of Worthog Homebrewers have come to know and love.

Enjoy a variety of beers for an entire afternoon of fun. With over 40 beers to choose from, just one ticket covers entry to the event, a festival glass and unlimited tasting finishing only when the beer runs out. Food is also available at the venue and non-beer drinkers can purchase alternative soft drinks, wines and spirits from the venue bar.

Cost: R150pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 21 June from 10.30am to 5.30pm
Where: Dynamite Distilling Co, 31 High St, Founders Hill, Lethabong

The return of Mzansi Ballet’s Carmen

Mzansi Ballet—The Nation’s Ballet—presents a thrilling new production venturing into the passionate world of Carmen.

Choreographed by the acclaimed José Manuel Buzón Ruiz from Madrid’s University of Juan Carlos, in collaboration with Mzansi Ballet’s own Angela Revie, Carmen showcases a powerful story of love, jealousy, and betrayal set to the iconic music of Georges Bizet.

This bold reimagining of the classic tale brings together the fiery rhythms of flamenco, the elegance of ballet, and the high-energy moves of Pantsula, creating an explosive fusion of dance styles like never before.

Cost: R200pp to R350pp, book via Webtickets

When: Wednesday, 11 June to Sunday, 29 June. Various shows at 11am, 3pm and 7.30pm
Where: Pieter Toerien at Monte Casino, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Unplug Yourself Catan National League – The Nexus – Day 6

Unplug Yourself is the leading authority on tabletop games, hosting a varied selection of playing and trading events for gamers around the country.

Their Nexus Catan National League is coming to an end this weekend in Joburg, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to take your place in the premier competitive series for this popular strategy game and prove yourself as one of the country’s top players, possibly earning a spot in the South African National Championship.

Cost: From R50pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 21 June from 10am to 3pm
Where: Nexus Hub 21 Harley St, Ferndale, Randburg

GoldLink and more at Once Upon a Time in Joburg

Once Upon A Time In Joburg presents an evening with GoldLink and Sasha Keable.

Hailing from Washington D.C., GoldLink (real name D’Anthony Carlos) burst onto the scene with his genre-blending sound, fusing hip hop, dance, and electronic music. With a Grammy nomination and a reputation for electrifying live performances, his return to South Africa promises to be an iconic moment for fans.

Sasha Keable, the unapologetically soulful voice behind some of the UK’s most stirring R&B, makes her long-awaited South African debut. With a sound rooted in 90s nostalgia and lyrics that hit straight to the heart, Sasha blends Latin fire, London grit, and pure vocal gold.

The first confirmed supporting act is South Africa’s own pop and RnB sensation, Shekhinah.

Cost: From R350pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 21 June from 12pm to 8pm
Where: James & Ethel Gray Park, Edgewood Avenue &, Melrose St, Melrose, Johannesburg

Look out for more upcoming international concerts in Gauteng

Drive 2 Unite Charity Auto Show

Drive 2 Unite brings together car and bike enthusiasts for a purpose-driven parade around Johannesburg, ending in an exclusive vehicle showcase at Montecasino.

The auto show is a powerful movement supporting charity, and entry is free, but everyone is encouraged to bring along at least one pack of sanitary pads to contribute to the Sanitary Pad Drive.

The drive kicks off early in the morning from a secret start location. The public is invited to the Montecasino Events Area after the drive to see the vehicles on display, which include supercars, sports cars, sedans, SUVs, motorcycles, muscle cars, classics, hot rods, custom show cars, and modified 4x4s. Food stalls are also available.

Cost: Free entry

When: Sunday, 22 June from 11am to 2pm
Where: Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

A powerful reimagining of Verdi’s Requiem

Giuseppe Verdi’s powerful Requiem will be brought to life in a rare and stirring performance by The Symphony Choir of Johannesburg, joined by the accomplished Phoenix Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Richard Cock. Composed in 1874, Verdi’s Messa da Requiem is a dramatic, emotionally charged masterpiece that fuses sacred tradition with operatic intensity. It’s a work of soaring beauty, thunderous climaxes, and moments of haunting stillness.

The featured soloists are a celebrated quartet: soprano Andiswa Makana, mezzo-soprano Violina Anguelov, tenor Kananelo Sihau, and bass Bongani Khubeka. Each brings exceptional vocal colour and depth to this profound musical journey through grief, awe, and redemption.

Cost: From R210pp, book via Quicket

When: Sunday, 22 June from 3pm to 6pm
Where: The Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg

The Food Market at Syringa Park

Set up permanently in an open environment at the park, the 14 gourmet eateries and bars all specialise in a range of food offerings. Here you’ll find a world of flavours to try such as Texan Barbeque, Portuguese cuisine, and a taste of Argentina among others. There are also sandwiches, burgers and hotdogs, and Halaal-friendly food.

Seating spaces are available on the deck overlooking the park. Grab a brew of your choice at AfricaBlack Coffee Shop (open Monday-Sunday 7am-10pm) with ample seating and is surrounded by lush greenery. See more things to do at Syringa Park here.

When: Friday to Sunday, 10am until 9pm
Where: Syringa Park, Avianto Estate, Muldersdrift

Explore our guide to the best weekend markets in Joburg and Pretoria

The Zulu is Mbongeni Ngema’s ode to the Zulu nation

Mbongeni Ngema’s The Zulu is a stirring stage production that tells the story of the Zulu nation. From its early beginnings to the famed Battle of Isandlwana, the play brings history to life. It celebrates the strength, pride and cultural roots of a people who shaped South Africa’s past.

Once a solo performance, The Zulu now features two actors—Abdul Khoza and Nhlakanipho Manqele—who add richness and energy to the tale. We see the rise of King Shaka Zulu, his leadership, and the military skill that changed a nation.

Directed by Sibusiso Mamba, with music by Mfiliseni Magubane, the play mixes dance, song and storytelling. It is both powerful and moving. A tribute to the Zulu spirit, it reminds us of heritage, struggle and resilience.

Cost: From R120pp to R180pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 6 to 22 June 2025. Wednesday to Sundays at various times
Where: Lesedi Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

The Winter Fire Festival

Set against the charming backdrop of Rosemary Hall in Pretoria, the Winter Fire Festival is a heart-warming celebration of creativity, connection, and community spirit.

The farm will come alive with flickering flames, live music, and the scent of warm food and spiced drinks. Explore artisan stalls at the food and craft market, watch fire performers, and join in hands-on workshops — from candle pouring and lantern making to crochet, painting, and even fire-starting the old-fashioned way.

Cost: Free entry, click here to reserve parking and join workshops

When: Friday, 20 June from 3pm to 8pm
Where: Rosemay Hill, 257 Mooiplaats, N4 East Exit 18, Pretoria East, Pretoria

Check out what to get up to at The Winter Festival

Best of Bordeaux pop up dinner and wine

Prepare to indulge at this pop up four-course dinner paired with wine from Zevenwacht Estate.

Your entreé will be paired with Zevenwacht Rosé, your starter paired with estate Sauvignon Blanc/estate Chardonnay, your mains with Tin Mine Red/estate Shiraz, and finally dessert paired with estate Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cost: From R495pp (excl. 15% service fee), book online

When: Friday, 20 June from 11am to 10.30pm
Where: LeSi Singing Waiter Restaurant, 5 Darlington Rd, Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria

National Extreme Festival

The National Extreme Festival is a full day of high-speed, family-friendly entertainment.

Witness as thrill-seeking professional drivers participate in various races, including the South African Touring Cars & SATC, the Supa Cup, the Astron Energy Polo Cup, the Gazoo Racing SA Cup, the VW Rookie Cup, MSA 4, the Sunbet ZX10R Masters Cup, and the Extreme SuperCars driven by Dunlop.

You can also expect drifting passenger rides on the skidpan, food amd drink stalls, and merch stalls.

Cost: R140pp, R100 per student, kids u/12 enter free. Purchase tickets at the gates

When: Saturday, 21 June from 8.15am to 6.15am
Where: Zwartkops Raceway, R55, Lekkerhoekie 450-Jr, Pretoria

Gauteng Soul And Jazz Concert

The annual Gauteng Soul and Jazz Concert is back by popular demand, bringing another prestigious concert experience to Pretoria.

The concert features South Africa’s top Afro-soul and jazz superstars under one Roof. These superstars include Judith Sephuma, Mafikizolo, Bongo Maffin, Presss, Jaziel Brothers, DJ Young, Somizi, Tbose Mokwele, and Musa.

Cost: From R590pp, book via Ticketpro

When: Saturday, 21 June from 5pm
Where: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Spoegwolf Kuierfees

Local rock band, Spoegwolf are bringing their energetic stage presence to Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel in Centurion.

Opening the afternoon are another local rock band, VanCoet. Following them is a Taylor Swift tribute artist, after which VanCoet rock the stage once more. Then comes the main event as Spoegwolf hit the stage last.

Bring your own camping chairs or blankets for Sunday vibes in the garden. Drinks and food are also available for purchase at the food and bar stalls (own food and drinks are strictly prohibited).

Cost: From R180pp. From R400 per couple. From R600 for a family special (2 adults, 2 kids u/18) | Book via Quicket

When: Sunday, 22 June from 10.30am to 4pm
Where: Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel, 87 Jim Van Der Merwe St, Clubview, Centurion