End the first week of July off with the best that the city has to offer. This weekend in Joburg, take your pick from a large variety of weekend markets to kick off the month, a dazzling ballet showcase, a wine tasting event, a poetry showdown, beautiful live music, and more.
Joburg Ballet and Cape Town City Ballet’s dazzling production of Swan Lake
South Africa’s two leading classical ballet companies join forces to present a grand-scale staging of Swan Lake, one of the world’s most beloved ballet productions, starting in Joburg this weekend.
Close on 150 years after its first performance in Moscow in 1877, this saga of love and betrayal remains at the pinnacle of classical ballet, performed by ballet companies around the world, its leading role danced by the greatest ballerinas of every generation.
Cost: From R250pp to R670pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running from 4 to 17 July 2025. Various times
Where: Mandela Theatre at Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Find out more about the ballet tour
Word N Sound Poetry League Round 3
The iconic bi-monthly Word N Sound Poetry League platform invites seasoned poets and newcomers to battle it out, accumulate points, and aim for the grand finale in November.
Interested poets must arrive early at Goethe-Institut on Saturday, 5 July and register by adding their names to the list. Entrants get 5 minutes on stage, and a panel of their peers will score their performance.
The winner of the night takes home a cash prize, but every point earned counts toward qualifying for the final showdown in November, where the 2025 Word N Sound Poetry League Champion will be crowned.
Cost: R50 entry at the door
When: Round 3— Saturday, 5 July 2025 from 12pm to 5pm. Runs until 1 November 2025
Where: Goethe-Institut South Africa, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg
See what else is on at the Goethe-Institut this July
Jokers in July presents Generations
Generations is all laughter, no drama! Shaking up your time with punchlines instead of plot twists. This unfiltered show celebrates all generations of South Africans with a powerhouse comedy line-up sharing their take on life as they see it.
Expect a cross-generational clash of comedy icons Trevor Gumbi, Ntosh Madlingozi, Modipane A-Lister and Zicco Sithole.
Cost: R120pp, book via Ticketpro
When: Saturday, 5 July from 8pm
Where: Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, Johannesburg
Wine tastings and fabulous views at Ground CRU Winter Edition
Ground the Venue is bringing back the much-awaited Ground CRU Winter Edition wine tasting experience this weekend.
Sample exquisite flavours of both new wines and rare vintages, taste comforting food from local vendors and unwind in tranquil surrounds with family and friends while live bands set the mood.
Cost: From R450pp, including a branded glass and tasting at each vineyard stand. Book via Howler
When: Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 July from 12pm to 5pm
Where: The Tobacco Shed at Ground the Venue, Plot 19, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift, Johannesburg
Get all the details about this winter wine affair
Clearwater Mall’s 21st Birthday Challenge Ten Hosted by Toys R Us
In this tenth challenge as part of Clearwater Mall’s 21st Birthday Challenge series, the first five people with the lucky number will receive a chance to compete in a puzzle competition.
Each contestant will need to complete a 24pc puzzle provided by Toys R Us. The first person/ fastest contestant to complete the puzzle wins a R2100 Toys R Us voucher.
When: Saturday, 5 July 2025 from 12pm
Where: Clearwater Mall, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort
Find out more about how you can win big at Clearwater Mall
The Antique Fair at The Firs
The Antique Fair at The Firs in Rosebank is one of the most popular vintage markets in Johannesburg. Here you’ll find all things treasured, vintage, and indie, and is a great opportunity to hunt down that perfect bespoke or bygone-era piece of treasure.
Expect trestle tables filled with vintage and pre-loved clothing, jewellery and some contemporary local art. The antique fair brings together over 70 of Johannesburg’s serious collectors and vintage purveyors, offering vintage collector pieces, stylish preloved gems such as authentic Louis Vuitton handbags, millinery creations, as well as quirky bits and pieces, jewellery and fashion.
The market is also another opportunity to hang out in Sandton’s style central to eat and drink at one of the chic cafes after your shopping session.
Cost: Free entry
When: Sunday, 6 July from 10am to 4pm
Where: The Firs, Biermann Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Find out more about the fair
The Mzansi Chamber Music Collective presents Scullery Quintet
The Chamber Music Collective promises a one-of-a-kind performance where the chamber sounds and jazz music collide. The Scullery Quintet is a crossover ensemble that blends the elegance of a classic string quartet with the dynamic energy of a jazz rhythm section.
The quintet is led by three-time SAMA award-winning drummer Peter Auret along with Waldo Luc Alexander, Hana Yim-Wahl, Tiisetso Mashishi, and Amaeshi Ikechi, who are musicians in their own right.
The music programme for the day reimagines works from Bach, Dvorák, Beethoven, Pat Metheny, Hugh Masekela, Radiohead, and more.
Cost: R250pp for adults, R200pp for pensioners and students, book via Quicket. Kids and teens under 21yrs get free access, email the team directly to book
When: Sunday, 6 July from 3pm to 5pm
Where: The Shed & Silo Country Restaurant, 77 Thomas Rd, Norton’s Home Estates, Benoni
See the upcoming Mzansi Chamber Music Collective concerts
Babble Hume Live at The Basement
Babble Hume is a vibrant South African collective redefining the soundscape of contemporary music. Formed in 2024 by five best friends bound by a deep passion and instinctive talent for music, this genre-blurring group is quickly making waves and defying expectations.
The collective is made up of Jiggy Stapes, Earldridge, Nnashe, S-Que, and Iam6teen — a powerful mix of three standout vocalists and two cutting-edge producers. Don’t miss an opportunity to see the fruits of this beautiful collaboration between talented friends this weekend in Joburg.
Cost: R250pp. R400pp (ticket + t-shirt) | Book via Quicket
When: Friday, 4 July from 9pm to midnight
Where: Untitled Basement, 7 Reserve St, Johannesburg
F1 (2025) screenings at The Bioscope
The Bioscope is excited to bring this one-of-a-kind film to the big screen.
Directed by Top Gun: Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski, starring Brad Pitt, and produced alongside Lewis Hamilton, F1 tells the story of former Formula 1 driver and so-called “has-been”, Sonny Hayes (Pitt) who is convinced to return to racing and become the best in the world alongside the team’s hottest rookie (Damson Idris).
Cost: From R100pp, book online
When: Friday to Sunday, 4 to 6 July. Friday and Saturday at 8pm | Sunday at 12.30pm
Where: The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg
Cullinan Winter Wine Festival
Top wine estates are set to showcase their award-winning wines at this year’s Cullinan Winter Wine Festival. For the non-wine drinkers, there’s 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 complete the show.
There is the general adult ticket that is all-inclusive and a VIP ticket which includes one bottle of private label red, rose or white wine and an individual cheese platter. At an additional price, guests can also book the Cullinan Winter Wine Festival Safari Dinner.
Cost: From R150pp. From R315pp (VIP). R450 (two-for-two special). R420pp (Safari Dinner). R3000 (VIP 8-seater) | Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 5 July from 9am to 5pm
Where: Makers Village, 101 Oak Ave, Cullinan
The Amazing Mammoth Race
The Amazing Mammoth Race is back for its third year, inviting participants to race in the name of charity.
Follow the clues, find the various locations, and complete the challenges. The first team to reach the final destination, wins. Each team will need a mode of transport to get them from point to point.
The modes of transportation allowed this year include motorcycles, cars, classic cars, super cars, tanks, donkeys, and camels. Once again, the funds raised from this event go to HERD Elephant Orphanage.
Cost: R100pp, book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 5 July from 9am to 6pm
Where: The Secret Tea Garden in Norscot Manor Recreation Centre, 16B Penguin Drive, Norscot, Fourways, Sandton
Harties Beer Trail at The Rusty Feather
Join a one-of-a-kind Beer Hike Experience brought to you by OC Brewery and The Rusty Feather this weekend. Take your taste buds on a 6km journey filled with breathtaking views of Hartbeespoort Dam and delicious craft beer tasters waiting for you at stations along the trail.
You’ll have access to the scenic 6km Harties River Hiking Trail, 6 x 150ml unique OC Brewery craft beer tasters, an official Beer Passport and Finisher’s Glass (fill it with your fave beer at the end – 1 x 500ml draught!), and medical support on-site.
Kids and non-drinkers are also welcome to this is a non-timed, fun event. Broederstoom Country Market will be hosted on the day, so expect stunning local artisans with their homemade goodies, food stalls and live music at the finish line.
Cost: R320pp (beer trail ticket), R70pp (kids and non-drinkers). Free entry for the market | Book online
When: Saturday, 5 July from 10am to 4pm
Where: Meet at The Rusty Feather, T-Junction R512 and R104, Crocodile Rd, Hartbeespoort, Broederstroom
Chaotic Geek Market
Check out this market exclusively for you to find the best geeky merch, from anime plushies to pristine collectibles and more.
Vendors include Chaos Kraft, Red Universe Publishing, Tmei, Teeparty, We cre8, Level 01 merchant, The Silk Road by Angelique, Zesty Grapefruit, and samoosas.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday, 5 July from 10am to 3pm
Where: 47 Sycamore Ave, Weltevredenpark, Roodepoort
World Without End – Club Night
World Without End – Club Night is a late-night house music event curated by local house legend, Jullian Gomes.
This is where house lovers come together to celebrate the genre with a curated lineup of South African house music talents. This edition of the event features back-to-back sets with Jullian Gomes and guest DJs China, Kat La Kat and Michael G.
Cost: R80pp to R200pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 5 July from 9pm to 3am
Where: And Club, 39 Gwigwi Mrwebi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
First Sunday at Victoria Yards
Victoria Yards hosts another vibey market event with loads of fun things to do. Joburg’s famous industrial-style retail space hones in on its artisanal charm by spotlighting creative makers all showing off small-scale and handmade wares.
A group of food stalls serve up everything from vegetarian fare, delicious pizza, and the best fish and chips in South Africa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Quench your thirst at our cocktail bar or grab a cup of freshly roasted and baked coffee while DJs bring the tunes.
This weekend’s market features various workshops that can be booked at an additional price, including a handpoke tattoo workshop, a cupcake decorating workshop, a handprint design workshop and more. Don’t miss out on the pop-up exhibition either.
Cost: Free entry
When: Sunday, 6 July from 10am to 4.30pm
Where: Victoria Yards, 16 Viljoen Street, Lorentzenville, Johannesburg
Easy Like a Sunday Market at Country Pub
The First Sunday of the Month Market at Country Pub Kyalami is back!
There will be a wood-fired pizza oven and delicious Sunday roast available for purchase, live music kicking off at 12pm, a dog-friendly environment, and market stalls packed with homemade jams, cheeses, organic cleaning products, pet goodies, kids’ toys, handcrafted gifts, and beautiful jewellery!
There is also fun for both the kids and adults with a jumping castle, trampolines, foosball, and pool table, and two boma areas.
Cost: R135pp, R90pp for kids (wood-fired pizza oven and delicious Sunday roast). Book a table via 010 786 1109
When: Sunday, 6 July from 11am
Where: Country Pub Kyalami, Cedar Rd, Kyalami, Midrand
See more of the best weekend markets in and around Joburg
Mindful Painting Meditation with Silent Rhythm
This unique painting meditation experience combines gentle meditation with ceramic painting – helping you slow down, tune in, and express their inner calm through art.
Ceramic items for painting are available at the venue, ranging from R90–R600, depending on each participant’s choice. Each person selects and pays separately for their ceramic piece on the day.
Cost: From R95pp, book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 6 July from 1.30pm to 3pm
Where: Create Lonehill, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Midrand
Linda Van Coppenhagen Live
Linda Van Coppenhagen is returning home from Germany to perform in Johannesburg for the first time in over 14 years.
Linda performs songs from her debut album, ‘Heimwee’. This Northwards House concert marks the South African launch of the album, which features both German and Afrikaans classical art songs.
Two professional South African musicians accompany her for this show: the excellent Paul Ferreira on the piano and the virtuoso clarinetist Lizet Smith.
Cost: R250pp, book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 6 July from 3pm to 6pm
Where: Northwards House, 21 Rockridge Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg
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: From R200pp to R250pp, book via Webtickets
When: Running until Sunday, 6 July. Various times
Where: Montecasino, Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg
More comedy to catch in the city
Menlyn Maine Launches Gallery of Giving in Celebration of Mandela Month
Menlyn Maine Central Square, in partnership with 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, The Scoin Shop, and Embassy Direct, proudly launches the Gallery of Giving, an initiative to honour Mandela Month, this July.
Hosted at Menlyn Maine’s Central Square, the Gallery of Giving showcases exclusive handmade blankets crafted by volunteers from 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day, as well as over thirty Mandela-inspired artworks from a private collection.
This year, everyone is invited to visit the Gallery of Giving and join in making a difference this Mandela Month. The Gallery of Giving opens to the public on Friday, July 4th. Visitors can browse the exhibition until July 31st.
Cost: Free entry
When: Open from 4 to 31 July 2025
Where: Menlyn Maine Central Square, 180 Amarand Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria
Irene Village Market
Located under a rooftop of trees at The Big Red Barn in Olifantsfontein, this market in Pretoria is the perfect outing for a Saturday morning. You can browse more than 150 stalls with a variety of locally handmade arts and crafts at this outdoor market.
Irene Village Market also boasts live entertainment for a vibey atmosphere where you can sit back and enjoy extraordinary food from the deli. Local on-tap beer and gin are also on the menu and remember that pets are welcome, too.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday, 5 July from 9am to 2pm
Where: The Big Red Barn, 7 Nelson Rd, Olifantsfontein, Pretoria
The Antique Fair at Brooklyn Mall
Every month, the Antique Fair at Brooklyn Mall unpacks a world of fascinating and valuable antiques and fine art spanning a range of periods. The fair is one of the biggest in the province and a must-see event for anyone interested in interior design, history, and art.
If you can’t spend on a precious find, don’t fret as there are unique finds for every pocket with handmade jewellery, cool trinkets and small collectibles up for grabs. There’s also the chance to chat with passionate dealers and get to know them and their goods.
Cost: Free entry
When: Saturday, 5 July from 9am to 3pm
Where: Brooklyn Mall, Corner of Veale Street and, Fehrsen Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria
More on the antique fair
Rugby – South Africa v. Italy
The Springboks take on Italy in a two-Test series starting in Pretoria this weekend.
The start to the Bok season not only represents an opportunity to see the back-to-back World Champions in local action but also launches a year in which the Boks will be fighting to defend their No. 1 world ranking to secure the most favourable draw for Rugby World Cup 2027.
Cost: R750pp to R3000pp, book via Ticketmaster
When: Saturday, 5 July from 5.10pm
Where: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Kirkness Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
Menlo Vinyl Record Fair
Pretoria’s monthly vinyl record market is definitely worth a visit for hardcore collectors, newbies to the scene, or just discerning musos. There’s also a listening station to explore the releases before purchase.
Buyers can leaf through a limited edition release from bygone local bands or acts, a broad range of genres, and if lady luck is on your side, score a rare first press or secure those one-off pieces for expanding your record collection.
Once you’re done, tuck in on Capital Craft’s unbeatable burgers. The space is also the go-to for hardcore craft beer fans thanks to a large library of local and imported beers and the laid-back vibe.
Cost: Free entry
When: Sunday, 6 July from 10am to 2pm
Where: Shop No. 20, Greenlyn Village Centre, Cnr Thomas Edison & 12th Street East, Menlo Park, Pretoria
Gbedu Nights family edition
This winter, popular afrobeats and African music party Gbedu Nights, is coming to Pretoria for the first time, hosting a rare daytime Gbedu with an exciting twist.
This event is set to feature amazing African cuisine by local chefs and a Paint & Sip experience. Unlike other Gbedu Nights, this edition is child friendly so the kids can enter for free and enjoy an exciting kid’s art class happening separate from the adults’ party.
Cost: From R200pp. From R300pp (Sip & Paint). Free entry for children | Book via Quicket
When: Sunday, 6 July from 12pm to 8pm
Where: Botaki Ba Afrika, 1005 Arcadia St, Hatfield, Pretoria
Busstop7 Open Air Market + Orchid Show
BusStop7 in Pretoria East is a great way to spend weekends with the family. You’ll find over 150 stalls selling everything from local cheese, raw honey, organic fruit & veg, and unique lifestyle apparel for gifting.
This weekend the market is hosting a Phalaenopsis Orchid Show and Care Talk. They will also be giving away a lovely orchid to a lucky attendee at the talk.
Experience a wide range of food and drink vendors to try while taking in some country air. A kids play area is available, and dogs are welcome at the venue.
Cost: R25pp, kids u/12 enter free
When: Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 July. Market: from 9am to 4pm | Orchid talk: Saturday from 10am and Sunday from 11am
Where: Cnr Duiker and Foxtrot Street, Pretoria
Check out the top markets in Pretoria
