The Human Rights Day public holiday brings a much-needed long weekend to celebrate and reflect on the preservation of South Africans’ human rights as well as enjoy an extra day of weekend entertainment. Make the most of the long weekend in Joburg and surrounds with this selection of the best things to do, from Human Rights Day markets, museum and festival activities to more of the city’s usual weekend excitement.
Human Rights Day activities and entertainment
The Human Rights Festival at Constitution Hill
The annual Human Rights Festival offers four days of activism, topical debates, reflection, and entertainment to Joburgers.
On day one of the festival the public are invited to join a day of sessions focused NGO Capacity Building as well as Learners Programs & Public dialogue sessions. The day ends with an NGO and Film Makers networking session.
Day two is the Official Opening Ceremony featuring 1000 Drums for Solidarity along with a full festival lineup. There will be workshops, a book fair, art exhibitions, a kids’ village, film screenings and live entertainment.
On day three there are more interactive workshops, book readings, film screenings, and poetry, theatre, and music events. The Sounds of Freedom Live Show also takes place from 5pm to 9pm and is headlined by none other than Mandisi Dyantyis.
On day four, the public participate in the WeThePeople Walk, an 8km walk through the city calling for human rights and justice.
Cost: FREE, book via Quicket
When: Thursday to Sunday, 20 to 23 March
Where: Constitution Hill, 11 Kotze St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Human Rights Day at Bryanston Market
Join Bryanston Market in a Human Rights Day celebration with a vibrant lineup of activities for the whole family.
Kickstart your morning with an uplifting dance session with Secret Sunrise from 8.30am and enjoy the enchanting sounds of live Irish music by an Irish fiddler later in the morning. The kids also get their own treat with a children’s puppet show.
Bring along your family, friends, and even your furry companions (on a leash) for a relaxing day in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the market.
Cost: FREE entry | From R125pp (Secret Sunrise), book via Quicket
When: Friday, 21 March from 8.30am to 3pm
Where: Bryanston Market, 40 Culross Rd, Bryanston, Sandton
Prison Break Market’s Human Rights Day Carnival
Get ready for a day packed with fun and entertainment for the whole family hosted at Prison Break Market’s Harvest Pantry.
The carnival features face painting for the kids from 11am to 1pm, clowns with balloon twisting and juggling from 1pm to 3pm, a live drumming performance from 4pm to 6pm, and a spectacular fire show to end the public holiday off at 6pm.
Cost: FREE entry
When: Saturday, 21 March from 9am to 8pm
Where: Harvest Pantry, Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Johannesburg
House, dance and electronic music at Anjunadeep Open Air
Anjunadeep Open Air returns to Joburg this Friday for a full day of music from international and local stars.
Celebrate your Friday off by getting groovy at this global house, dance and electronic festival. Welcome the return of international music acts Tinlicker, Eli & Fur and Dosem alongside a talented lineup of local acts.
These include Blanka Mazimela, a multi-talented artist and one quarter of the live electronic band, Bantwanas; afro-house talent Caiiro; Da Capo b2b with Karyendasoul; Sone, who is a rising talent and son of legendary DJ and producer Black Coffee; and the promising and talented Stoffela.
Cost: From R550pp. From R1500pp (VIP table) | Book via Howler
When: Friday, 21 March from midday to 1am
Where: The River Cabin, 35 R114, Nietgedacht 535-Jq, Fourways
Visit the Johannesburg Zoo at a discounted price
The Johannesburg Zoo is one of the top things to do in Joburg for nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in wildlife. A range of encounters are available from guided tours and night safaris to picnic areas and recreational spaces.
This year, the zoo celebrates its 121st birthday and as a special treat, on the 21st of every month until 21 February 2026, visitors can enjoy entry for just R21! Visitors can also get a half off discount for the month of March while people born in March can enter for free so long as proof is provided. Offer valid until 28 March.
Cost: R21pp this public holiday | Normal rates: R126pp for adults, R74pp for kids, see the full breakdown of rates here. Tickets can only be purchased at the entrance
When: Daily, from 8.30am to 5.30pm. Last entry 4pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Parkview, Johannesburg
Read more about Johannesburg Zoo
Matri-archi(tecture) presents IN-FORM-ALL
IN-FORM-ALL is a collective platform and open archive of counterpublics between Johannesburg and Rotterdam. The archive connects existing informal local practices and counterpublics in Johannesburg central business district, South Africa and Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Counterpublics are alternative ways of making space in cities that non-architects organise in informal ways. The project centres these counterpublics as part of spatial discourse reframing informality beyond the dominant narratives that suggest it as being chaotic, dirty, dark and disorganised.
All of the images on IN-FORM-ALL are taken by and in dialogue with local practitioners embedded in their cities, constructing and nurturing counterpublics. The launch of the IN-FORM-ALL invites a gathering of voices within Johannesburg’s counterpublics and beyond, to learn about alternative economies and creative practices that are considered informal.
Cost: FREE entry, book tickets for the launch via Quicket
When: Launches on Friday, 21 March from 5pm to 10pm
Where: LAPA, 29 Chiswick St, Brixton, Johannesburg
Read more about the event
Free entrance at the Apartheid Museum this public holiday
This Human Rights Day is the perfect opportunity to take a look back at South African history and the sacrifices made to ensure human rights for all in a post-apartheid South Africa.
The Apartheid Museum features permanent exhibitions that trace this history from its very beginnings to the post-democratic period. Every so often they also put together temporary exhibitions that delve a bit deeper into important figures or events from the Apartheid and post-Apartheid eras.
Currently showing at the museum is an exhibition entitled Born Free: Generation of Hope which explores the country’s journey over the last three decades through the eyes of a born-free, the Tutu Exhibition dedicated to telling the life story of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Time To Act which celebrates the 40-year anniversary of the United Democratic Front.
Cost: FREE entry this public holiday for South Africans. Bring your ID along
When: Friday, 21 March. Open from 9am to 5pm
Where: Apartheid Museum, Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Rd, Ormonde
Family discounts for the Bothongo Rhino & Lion game drive
Round up the whole pride for a wild family adventure!
Bothongo Rhino & Lion are offering a family special on their two-hour guided game drives, bringing you and the whole crew face-to-face with the wild. There are also discounted rates for every extra adventurer who tags along.
To qualify for a family discount for three, your family must include two adults and one child aged 5 to 12, while a family of four discount requires that there be two adults and two children aged 5 to 12. More family members can be added at discounted prices and there is also a Wonder Cave add-on, where the whole family gets to explore the third-largest cave chamber in the country.
Cost: R1140 for family of three. R1460 for family of four (offer valid until 31 March) | Book online
When: Tue to Fri from 8am to 5pm. Sat, Sun and Public Holidays from 8am to 6pm
Where: 520 Kromdraai Road, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp
Rustig Human Rights Day Hike
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature with a guided 9km hike at Rustig Hiking Trails, a hidden gem in the Magaliesberg, this Human Rights Day.
This trail is not suitable for beginners and a fair level of fitness is required. Please arrive at least 45 minutes before the hike starts for check-in, wearing comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
Bring at least 3L of water and some snacks. The venue also offers accommodation, food, and a pool— so feel free to explore after the hike!
Cost: R200pp, book via Quicket
When: Friday, 21 March from 7am to 12pm
Where: Rustig, Magalies, Portian 91 Plaas Hartebeesfontein Hekpoort, Hekpoort
Unique antiques and a Greek Fest at Pretoria’s Vintage & Decor Show
On Human Rights 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.
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
Read more about the event
Ungasali Storytelling: A Visual Experience at Freedom Park
The Ungasali Storytelling Festival is transitioning from a live event to a curated film Ungasali Storytelling: A Visual Experience, screening this Human Right’s Day at Freedom Park.
This change allows the platform to capture the essence of storytelling in a more immersive and lasting way, with diverse voices, languages, and cultures from across the globe. Featured storytellers include Mokhali Lekhasi, Nonhlanhla Hadebe, Modisana Mabale, Charmza Kolwane Mrwebi, Siphelele Thungo, with host Omogolo Matshane.
Cost: FREE entry
When: Friday, 21 March from 1pm
Where: Freedom Park Amphitheatre, Freedom Park Heritage Site & Museum, Corner Koch &, 7th Avenue, Salvokop, Pretoria
Fijnwyn Bubbles Wine & Food Market
Head to the Shokran Events Venue this long weekend for a celebration of exceptional wine, mouthwatering food, and live music. Experience a taste of the Cape in Pretoria, with over 30 wine estates showcasing their finest offerings.
Each participating farm will have at least one bubble to taste, along with a selection of white, rosé, and red wines. Whether you’re a fan of sparkling bubbles or traditional wines, there’s something for everyone.
Your ticket includes a tasting glass and access to unlimited wine tastings, so you can sip and explore to your heart’s content. Plus, indulge in delicious treats from food stalls while enjoying the lively atmosphere created by our live music.
Cost: From R220pp. From R75 per child (12 to 17) | Book via iTickets
When: Friday and Saturday, 21 and 22 March from 10am to 5pm
Where: Shokran Events Venue, Plot 99, Tierpoort
What’s on in Joburg and surrounds this weekend
Dinner Date Delights Vitality HealthyFood cooking course
Take in an enchanting evening for two with Vitality HealthyFood’s Dinner Date Delights cooking class.
Begin with golden nachos topped with seared tuna, sweetcorn, beans, avocado, tomato salsa, and sour cream. For the starter, enjoy Korean beef paired with a crunchy cabbage salad featuring summer melon, pistachio nuts, baby spinach, and toasted noodles.
The main course showcases Brazilian Tempero Baiano chicken served with kara mashed potato, zucchini ribbons, and eggplant caponata. End the evening on a sweet note with a decadent chocolate cake accompanied by banana ice-cream and seasonal berries.
Cost: R750pp, book online
When: Thursday, 20 March from 6pm to 9pm
Where: Vitality HealthyFood Studio at 1 Discovery Pl in Sandhurst, Sandton
Read more about Vitality HealthyFood cooking courses
Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s Summer Symphony Season
Catch the final concert of the JPO Summer Symphony Season this Thursday, which shines a light on incredible South African talent in chamber music.
This incredible finale is led in conduction by popular conductor Daniel Boico, and the talented South African-based soloists for the evening include violinist Miro Chakaryan, celloist Anmari van der Westhuizen, and pianist Ben Schoeman.
The programme features performances of Haydn’s Kinder-symphonie (Toy Symphony) in C Major, Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, Op. 56 in C Major, and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4, Op. 90 in A Major, “Italian”.
Cost: From R180pp, book via Quicket
When: Thursday, 20 March at 7.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
Read more about the event
Free entry to AIR360 skate park at Eastgate Shopping Centre
AIR360 skate park and pump track is waiving their entry fees for the day on Friday, 21 March. Both experienced skaters and those keen to learn can join the rooftop park at Eastgate Shopping Centre for a fun day or rolling wheels. Kids and adults can join, plus there are lots of ramps to explore. Keen to kickstart your skating journey?
Scooters, BMX bikes, mountain bikes, skate boards, e-hover boards, roller skates and inline skates are welcome at the park. Find out more here.
Cost: Free entry
When: Friday, 21 March from 9am to 6pm
Where: Eastgate Shopping Centre, 43 Bradford Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston
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 weekend. Fans 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 here newest Born in the Wild album like ‘Love me JeJe’ and ‘Burning’.
Cost: R800pp to R1310pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Thursday, 20 March from 8pm
Where: The Dome, Nasrec, Johannesburg South
Read more about the event
Formula 1 madness at Cresta Fast Fest 2025
Car enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and families alike can fuel their passion for speed and excitement at Cresta Fast Fest.
This one-of-a-kind automotive experience features a spectacular lineup of high-performance vehicles in various luxury and performance car displays, a chance to get behind the wheel and test your racing skills like a pro in Formula 1 simulators, and opportunities to catch the latest F1 action on restaurant screens at Grand Prix watch parties.
Attendees can also expect live motorsport activations where you’ll witness thrilling demonstrations and immersive experiences, and family-friendly fun with engaging car-themed activities for both kids and adults.
Cost: FREE entry
When: Thursday to Tuesday, 20 to 25 March 2025 | Cresta operating hours: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 7pm. Sundays and Public Holidays from 9am to 5pm
Where: Cresta Shopping Centre, Cnr Beyers Naude Drive &, Weltevreden Rd, Cresta, Randburg
Read more about the event
Tote Bag Painting
Studio Artwave is hosting regular craft classes throughout the month, including their popular tote bag painting class.
With seasonal themes, from Matisse cut-outs to picturesque landscapes, in this three-hour guided class, you will be given tips to help you achieve specific artistic styles to be painted on a tote bag.
Cost: R475pp, book online
When: Saturday, 22 March from 9.30am to 12.30pm
Where: Artwave, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg
Read more about the Studio Artwave creative workshops
‘Beary’ Fun Cooking Vitality HealthyFood cooking course
Calling all little chefs and fans of the beloved marmalade-swilling Peruvian bear! Join for a hands-on kids’ cooking course at the Vitality HealthyFood Studio where you’ll discover the secrets of Peruvian cuisine.
Indulge in a delightful menu inspired by little red booted Paddington bear’s love of fun and good food. Start your adventure with fruit and bran muffins with special healthy marmalade and fish from Peru and crispy doughnut-shaped pumpkin fritters.
Dig into the main course of crispy Peruvian jungle chicken with roasted sweet potato wedges and a side of tomato and red pepper ketchup. End your kitchen expedition with moist chocolate cake served with banana frozen yoghurt and toasted Brazil nuts.
Ticket prices are per child; supervising adults attend for free.
Cost: R500 per child, free entry for supervising adults. Book online
When: Saturday, 20 March from 10am to 1pm
Where: Vitality HealthyFood Studio at 1 Discovery Pl in Sandhurst, Sandton
Catch A Fire Reggae Festival
The Catch A Fire Reggae Festival is an all day, outdoor, live reggae music and culture experience featuring reggae icons, contemporary stars, and emerging talent.
Book your tickets for a multifaceted experience featuring live reggae music, art, fashion, food, herbs, workshops, masterclasses and more. Featured artists for the 2025 edition include Mada Glory, Capital Kingz, Nikki Z (Jamaica), Etherton B and Garry B (Zimbabwe), Queen Omega (Trinidad), Anela Jamena, Sun Xa Experiment, and more.
This year, the festival introduces the Dubplate Showcase, a brand-new segment where two musical warriors go head-to-head in a fiery display of skill, vibes, and pure sound system power.
Cost: From R300pp. R100 (cooler box rental) | Book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 22 March from 12pm
Where: Soweto Theatre, cnr Bolani Link and Bolani Rd, 2601 Bolani Rd, Jabulani, Soweto
Punch Needle Art workshop at Studio Artwave
This punch needle class is perfect for picking up a new hobby. With four-hour step-by-step guidance, you’ll create your own unique piece. You can choose to put your masterpiece on 30x40cm fabric or a 30x40cm tote bag.
This is a more advanced class compared to the other workshops as it requires much more patience and time to complete and is, therefore, ideal for 13-year-olds and older.
Cost: R625pp to R725pp, book online
When: Saturday, 22 March from 2pm to 6pm
Where: Artwave, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg
WWF’s family-friendly outdoor cinema night for Earth Hour
To celebrate Earth Hour this year, WWF South Africa is hosting a once-off outdoor cinema in Johannesburg for both young and old this Saturday.
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
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
Read more about the event and how you can stand a chance to win a nature getaway
Johannesburg Zoo’s Earth Hour Zoo Snooze
Ever heard the lions roar at night in Joburg? In honour of Earth Hour, this Saturday the Johannesburg Zoo is hosting an Earth Hour Zoo Snooze. Experience lights out at the zoo, along with a night tour and a bonfire.
Cost: R255pp, book via tel at 011 646 2000 or email at [email protected]. Booking is essential.
When: Saturday, 22 March from 5pm
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive, Parkview, Johannesburg
Gourmet Greek Food Vitality HealthyFood cooking class
The Vitality HealthyFood Studio Gourmet Greek Food course takes you on a culinary journey through the sun-kissed flavours of Greece.
Indulge in a warm welcome with Paros beef gyros (slow-cooked meat stuffed in pita bread with tzatziki), accompanied by the refreshing notes of Mykonos Soumada. Then elevate your cooking skills as you learn to make Greek baked white fish for starters, Santorini Souvlaki (marinated meat grilled on a skewer) baby marrow fritters for mains, and more. For dessert, you’ll make Skiathos baklava as the sweet finale.
Cost: R750pp, book online
When: Saturday, 22 March from 6pm to 9pm
Where: Vitality HealthyFood Studio at 1 Discovery Pl in Sandhurst, Sandton
Carnival City’s Blue Nation Festival
Join Khuzani and Blue Nation at Carnival City on this weekend in Joburg as they celebrate 15 incredible years in the music industry.
This milestone event promises an unforgettable evening filled with electrifying performances, showcasing the journey, achievements, and timeless hits that have made Khuzani and Blue Nation icons of South African maskandi – a traditional South African music genre that combines Zulu music with Western instruments, known for its fast tempo and energetic rhythms.
Cost: From R200pp, book via Computicket
When: Saturday, 22 March from 6pm
Where: Big Top Arena, Carnival City, Century Rd, Elsburg Road, Carnival City, Brakpan
Paint Your Friend
Bring a partner/friend/soulmate and experience two-to-three hours of step-by-step guidance on how to paint a portrait of each other using the cubist style of Pablo Picasso.
Cost: R475pp, book online
When: Sunday, 23 March from 9.30am to 12.30pm
Where: Artwave, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg
Jozi Silent Book Club
The Jozi Silent Book Club provides the perfect opportunity for book lovers to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a moment to read.
Arrive for an hour of silent reading followed by 30 minutes of socialising, or for those who choose to, you can just keep reading. There are no restrictions on the type of book you can read, so feel free to bring anything from a textbook to a comic book or audiobook.
RSVP via a Google Form to secure your spot.
Cost: FREE entry, RSVP here
When: Sunday, 23 March from 10am to 12pm
Where: Johannesburg Botanical Gardens (Emmarentia), North Entrance on Olifants Road, Combretum Section
Textured Art workshop at Studio Artwave
In this class, participants are introduced to tools and techniques to help them learn how to create their own textured art.
Each person receives three hours of personalised guidance, ensuring that the textured art creation complements each participant.
Cost: R625pp, book online
When: Sunday, 23 March from 2pm to 5pm
Where: Artwave, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg
City Sightseeing Red Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off tours and special combos
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.
If you’re in the mood for an amusement park adventure after your tour, you can present your original City Sightseeing Johannesburg ticket at the Gold Reef City kiosk and get R100 off the entrance fee. If food is what you’re after, for every two people who present their tour tickets at the Johannesburg Zoo Stages restaurant, you can get a free large margarita pizza.
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. City Sightseeing are also currently running a Sunday Special where you get a tour for R285 instead of R299 | 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.
Read more about the City Sightseeing tours
There’s another vibey market at The Club
The Club Street Market is back in Hazelwood this Saturday for live music, sports on the big screen and great vibes. This time, they’re serving up live performances by Rubber Duc and Phillip Godfrey for an electrifying atmosphere filled with feel-good tunes.
There will be a variety of mouthwatering food stalls. Relax in our vibrant beer garden, and enjoy top-tier live music and entertainment all day.
Cost: R70pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 22 March from 1pm to 10pm
Where: The Club, 30 Elandslaagte Rd, Hazelwood, Pretoria
Lauren Daigle ‘The Kaleidoscope Tour’
Coming to Pretoria this Thursday is Grammy-award-winning artist, Lauren Daigle, an American contemporary Christian music singer and songwriter known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Her music blends elements of pop, gospel, and soul, often focusing on themes of faith, hope, and personal growth.
Daigle gained widespread recognition with hits like ‘You Say’ and ‘Look Up Child’, which showcase her powerful vocals and relatable messages. Her style appeals to both Christian and mainstream audiences, making her one of the most prominent figures in modern Christian music.
Cost: R800pp to R2840pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Thursday, 20 March from 8pm
Where: SunBet Arena, Time Square, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Check out more of the best international acts coming to Gauteng
Irene Festival of Running
Irene’s annual Running Festival returns this weekend with four competitive categories, entertainment and prizes.
The festival features a 48km ultra marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km road run and a 5km fun run. The first day is dedicated to the 5km, 10km and 21.1km runs, whilst the second day is reserved entirely for the ultra marathon.
Participants can purchase event t-shirts online, and all athletes earn a medal upon completion of their races. Three prize givings are held over both days, awarding the top finishers for the 10km, 21.1km, and 48km races with cash prizes.
When: Saturday and Sunday, 22 and 23 March | Saturday, start time 6am (half marathon, 10km) & 6.15am (5km) | Sunday, start time 6am (ultra marathon)
Where: Irene Athletics Club Race Venue, Doringkloof, Centurion
