October is going out with a bang, with Halloween spooktaculars, performances by the best names in jazz, huge wine and spirits events, stage extravaganzas, Johannesburg Pride, a vibrant plant show, international acts live on stage and more in store this weekend in Joburg.

JPO’s Spring Symphony Season Week 1

Kicking off the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s (JPO) Spring Symphony Series is the Spring Gala Concert, an annual tradition where two of South Africa’s leading orchestras meet for one night only.

The JPO perform the evening programme of works live alongside the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra, with one of the most exciting talents in classical music leading the concert.

Recognised by audiences, peers and critics alike for his communicative and engaging musicianship, combining clarity, eloquence of expression and a strong sense of narrative, Canadian Maestro Jean-Claude Picard conducts a riveting programme of Walton, Gershwin and Holst.

The performance features South Africa’s illustrious opera stars Pumeza Matshikiza (soprano) and Musa Ngqungwana (bass-baritone) taking center stage in arias from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, beloved for its fusion of jazz, blues and classical traditions into an American folk opera. 

Cost: From R190pp, book via Quicket.

When: Thursday, 29 October at 7.30pm to 9.30pm
Where: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Road, Parktown, Johannesburg

See the full Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra schedule

Glenshiel Fair

The Glenshiel Fair is a must-visit market experience on Johannesburg’s social calendar every spring.

More than 80 small business owners from South Africa and beyond will make their way to Johannesburg to showcase their most stylish, on-trend products at this year’s fair. Vendors traveling as far as the UK, Zimbabwe, the Cape, and the Natal Midlands, to stylish, on-trend looks, the Glenshiel Fair offers Johannesburgers a world-class shopping experience.

Expect exquisitely crafted bags, accessories, jewellery, clothing, scarves, and stunning home décor. This will also be the perfect opportunity to get a head start on shopping for bespoke handcrafted Christmas decorations, stationery, and luxury tableware.

Cost: R150pp per day, R450pp for preview evening on Wednesday, 28 October. Book via Quicket

When: Wednesday, 28 October to Sunday, 1 November. Wednesday, 5pm to 9pm. Thursday to Saturday, 9am to 7pm. Sunday, 9am to 3pm
Where: Glenshiel, 19 Woolston Rd, Westcliff, Randburg

Find out more about the Fair

Sankayi Jazz Series presents the internationally acclaimed George Burton

To close out the October programme, this weekend the Sankayi Jazz Series welcomes internationally acclaimed American pianist, composer and bandleader George Burton.

An NAACP Image Award-nominated artist from Philadelphia, Burton has developed a distinctive musical language that moves between jazz, electronics, hip-hop and experimental music.

His critically acclaimed 2024 album White Noise brought these elements together with Xhosa music, creating a powerful dialogue between American jazz and Southern African musical traditions.

At Sankayi, Burton brings his new Dark Science project, featuring South African trombonist and vocalist Siya Makuzeni, continuing the musical dialogue first explored on White Noise.

Cost: From R400pp. It is recommended that you arrive early to have dinner (at an additional cost) before the concert. Book via Quicket

When: Friday, 30 October. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg

Standard Bank WineX

The annual Standard Bank WineX returns to the Sandton Convention Centre this week.

Both seasoned and novice wine enthusiasts gather under one roof for the largest consumer wine event, discovering rare gems, exploring limited releases, and indulging in exclusive tastings from over 120 exhibitors.

Sample wines, champagnes and Cap Classiques from the finest of the South African wine scene, including legendary award-winning cellars and exciting boutique discoveries alike. 

Cost: From R220pp, book via Webtickets

When: Wednesday, 28 October to Friday, 30 October from 5pm to 9pm | No first-time entry after 8.30pm. Note that Wednesday’s tasting event is invite-only
Where: Sandton Convention Centre, Maude Street, Sandton

See all the experiences available at Standard Bank WineX

Emerald Resort & Casino’s Animal World Trick or Treat Halloween

The gates to Animal World’s mysterious Family Manor are opening for one unforgettable night this weekend.

Children can collect a Trick-or-Treat Passport and visit treat stations throughout the Zoo, tackle themed games and challenges, brave the Kids’ Spooky House, get creative with craft activities and enjoy the playground.

The entertainment continues with a magic show, character meet-and-greets, music and a photo booth, with photographs available to purchase. Guests aged 10 and older can venture into the Forbidden Forest: The Aftermath.

Food, drinks, a beer garden and a sweet stall will be available throughout the evening. Come dressed up for a chance to win a prize in one of four categories: Best Addams Family Character, Best Animal-Inspired Costume, Creepiest Creature and Best-Dressed Family.

Cost: R110 per adult, including Zoo entry and the Forbidden Forest walk. R90 per child, including the kids’ games and Trick-or-Treat experience | Book via Webtickets

When: Friday, 30 October from 6pm to 10pm
Where: Animal World Zoo, Emerald Resort and Casino, 777 Frikkie Meyer Blvd, Vanderbijlpark

See what else to get up to at Emerald Resort & Casino

The Houghton Bonsai and Succulent Show

The Houghton Bonsai and Succulent Show is an annual exhibition and plant market in Johannesburg that showcases the best of bonsai, succulents, orchids and other rare plants.

This popular plant event in Johannesburg promises a range of displays, interesting workshops, and demonstrations. Shoppers have the rare opportunity to browse and buy dazzling blooms and blossoms as well as striking exotic varieties from a selection of suppliers. 

The workshops and demonstrations cover a variety of topics, from caring for your newly purchased plant to propagation techniques and styling secrets. 

Cost: Free entry; note that joining some workshops may require a fee.

When: Friday, 30 October to Sunday, 1 November. From 9am to 4pm daily
Where: Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney, Johannesburg

Find out what’s on at the plant show

Sankayi Saturday Sessions presents The Brother Moves On

The Brother Moves On brings their genre-defying live experience to Sankayi Saturday Sessions.

Founded in 2009 by the late Nkululeko Mthembu and his brother Siyabonga Mthembu, The Brother Moves On has become one of South Africa’s most distinctive and innovative musical collectives.

The Johannesburg-based performance ensemble merges music, performance art and political storytelling, moving between jazz, punk, indigenous music and avant-garde performance.

Their immersive shows combine improvisation, costume, movement and narrative to create a live experience that is as unpredictable as it is compelling.

Cost: From R400pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 31 October from 6pm to 10.30pm. Dinner and drinks open at 6pm and close at 7.30pm. Concert starts at 8pm
Where: Sankayi Restaurant & Lounge, Green Park Corner, Morningside, Johannesburg

The Rocky Horror Show

The legendary cult musical The Rocky Horror Show, is set to light up the Joburg once again this summer.

From the moment sweethearts Brad and Janet experience a stormy night, a flat tyre and a detour to a mysterious castle, audiences are swept into a world where nothing is quite what it seems and everything is possible.

Inside the castle, they encounter the charismatic, corset-clad “sweet transvestite” Dr Frank-N-Furter, his eccentric household and the muscle-bound creation Rocky, brought to life in a riot of glitter, glam and guitar riffs. What unfolds is a deliciously subversive journey of transformation, temptation and self-realisation fuelled by rock anthems including ‘Time Warp’, ‘Sweet Transvestite’ and ‘Hot Patootie – Bless My Soul’.

Cost: R200pp to R495pp, book via Webtickets

When: Running from 23 October to 6 December 2026 | Wednesday to Friday at 7.30pm; Saturday at 3pm and 8pm; Sunday at 2pm and 6pm
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre, 1 Montecasino Blvd, Fourways, Johannesburg

Find out more about this powerful story

The Only Spirits Show

This weekend, Hyde Park Corner becomes host to an evening celebration of the world of spirits featuring tequila, mezcal, cognac, brandy, gin, rum and liqueurs, with over 50 different products available for sampling.

Each of the exhibitors offer multiple complimentary tastings, with some special products available for purchase by the glass. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the wider world of distilled drinks, feel free to engage with the approachable and friendly experts.

Cost: R250pp, book online

When: Friday, 30 October from 6pm to 10pm
Where: Hyde Park Corner, Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg

See which spirit brands are making an appearance

The Firs Antique Fair

The Firs Antique Fair is back this weekend with 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.

Cost: Free entry

When: Sunday, 1 November from 10am to 4pm
Where: The Firs, Biermann Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

Secret Sunrise Halloween

Secret Sunrise brings its Halloween-themed silent disco to Sandton Gate.

Whether you’re a little bit witchy, a certified dancing monster, or simply looking for an excuse to dress up and have some fun, this Secret Sunrise is the perfect place to let your inner creature out.

The morning features a guided silent dance experience with headsets, bone-shaking beats and spine-chilling sounds, playful breathwork and a seriously spooky energy reset.

Dress up in a Halloween-inspired outfit from capes to tutus, glow sticks and quirky hats, as surprise treats await the most spook-tacular dancer.

Cost: From R100pp, book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 31 October from 8.30am to 9.30am
Where: Sandton Gate, 25 Minerva Ave, Glenadrienne, Sandton

Plated: A Chef’s Table

The Maslow Sandton’s Lacuna Bistro introduces ‘Plated: A Chef’s Table’, its latest dining offering set against the hotel’s lush natural gardens this autumn season.

Elevate your dining with Lacuna Bistro’s thoughtfully curated pairing experience celebrating seasonal South African flavours, from sweet apricot and fresh prawns to comforting cassoulet, sweet corn and bright berries.

The long table setup accommodates 30 guests who are treated to an intimate chef-led journey of the senses. Each course from the Chef’s Table menu is matched with a selection of fine wines or artisanal beverages, chosen to complement and enhance the flavours of every dish.

From crisp, refreshing notes to rich, complex finishes, each pairing is designed to create a harmonious balance on the palate.

Cost: R650pp, tickets available via The Maslow

When: One Saturday a month from 3pm to 6pm
Where: Lacuna Bistro, The Maslow Hotel Sandton, Rivonia Rd, Grayston Dr, Gauteng, Sandton

See the full schedule + what’s on the menu

Kids Love Jazz

After touring 13 South African cities and performing at 6 sold-out shows, the Kids Love Jazz concert series returns to Joburg for its last show of the year.

This special event celebrates the journey, the people, the music and all who have been part of the Kids Love Jazz story so far with its biggest lineup of the year, featuring live performances by Bongeziwe Mabandla, Bokani Dyer, iPhupho L’ka Biko, Sisonke Xonti and KALPTURE., with Lenaya on the decks.

Cost: From R400pp, book via fixr

When: Saturday, 31 October from 2pm to 10pm
Where: The Playground, 73 Juta St, Braamfontein

Johannesburg Pride Parade and Festival

Johannesburg Pride is an open invitation for all to come and take a stride for Pride.

Every year, thousands gather to march through the streets of Johannesburg in a stand for self-acceptance and legal rights, but also in celebration of LGBTQ+ pride. This year, the march starts at 2pm through the Sandton area.

Parade-goers also get to enjoy music and dance performances from top local and international artists; indulge in a variety of food trucks, vendors, and beverage stations; explore stalls and booths from local organizations, artisans, and sponsors; and access health services, information booths, and wellness activities.

Cost: Free entry. Registration required via Howler

When: Saturday, 31 October from 11am to midnight. March leaves at 2pm
Where: Katherine Street, Sandton, Johannesburg

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty brings a beloved tale to life with classical dance, stunning choreography and beautiful glow-in-the-dark costumes.

Step into a world where light and dance intertwine in this breathtaking retelling of Sleeping Beauty which tells the classic tale of Aurora, a princess who is put under a sleeping curse that can only be broken by true love’s kiss.

As six dancers glide across the stage, their illuminated costumes create a dazzling display of colour and light, making every twirl and leap feel otherworldly.

Cost: From R440pp, book via feverup

When: Sunday, 1 November from 4pm and 7pm
Where: John Kani Theatre, The Market Theatre, 138 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg

Reverse Futures at JCAF

The Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation (JCAF) presents the third and final exhibition in its acclaimed ‘Worldmaking’ trilogy, titled Reverse Futures.

Reverse Futures looks to the future from the Global South. The exhibition examines how the effects of colonialism, migration and technological change continue to shape both the present and our vision of what lies ahead.

The title is derived from Nairobi-based architectural practice, Cave_bureau, who coined the term ‘reverse futurism’ to address the impact and effects of colonialism in Africa and specifically Kenya.

Reverse Futures suggests that a fair future requires acknowledging historical injustices while foregrounding plural, locally grounded knowledges shaped by community practices and more sustainable ways of living.

Featured artworks draw from historical research, artists’ lived experiences, community narratives and Indigenous knowledge systems and reflect on migration, memory, ecology, the cosmos and power.

Featured artists in Reverse Futures include Etel Adnan, Cave_bureau, Kate Crawford and Vladan Joler, Paula Gaetano Adi, Kamil Adam Hassim, Traci Kwaai, Ernest Mancoba, Georgia Munnik and Yinka Shonibare, with special projects by Rebecca Potterton and Wolff Architects.

Cost: Entry into JCAF is free, but by appointment only. Reserve your visit here

When: Reverse Futures is open for viewing from 26 June until 5 December. Tuesday to Saturday, based on bookings. Closed on Sunday, Monday and public holidays
Where: The Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation (JCAF), No 1 Durris Road, Forest Town, Johannesburg

Find out more about the exhibition

The Haunted Forest ®

The Haunted Forest® is a one-of-a-kind Halloween-themed outdoor event.

Visitors walk through a forest with eerie fog, strange sights, multiple life-size scenes, and scare actors accompanied by the spine-chilling screams from the Haunted House. The event also consists of a main festival site with a big screen featuring films to draw the horror from the tips of visitors’ toes out through the little hairs behind their necks.

The festival features a bar and picnic area, accompanied by a vendor and food village with tastes for every palate. For the young ones, there is a Trick & Treat in the forest that takes place before the forest walk.

For an added fee, visitors can also tour a Haunted House at the event, play games, experience the Fun Fair, and visit the Hansel & Gretel House. There are costume prizes up for grabs for the Most Horrific Family and the Freakiest Couple.

Cost: From R150pp to R300pp for adults; from R200pp for ages 13 to 17; from R70pp for ages 3 to 12; from R700 for a family; toddlers enter free. Book via Quicket

When: Saturday, 31 October from 3pm to 11pm
Where: Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Rd, Glenferness AH, Johannesburg

See more Spooktacular Halloween events in Joburg

L’Antico Giardino’s monthly Harvest Table

Set in the beautiful gardens of L’Antico Giardino, the Harvest Table offers the perfect excuse to escape the city and head for the countryside.

Gather a group of friends, make the most of Jozi’s glorious weather and settle in for a leisurely afternoon of delicious food, good company and relaxed country charm in a truly fabulous setting.

October’s Harvest Table offers a generous spread of hot and cold dishes, celebrating the freshest seasonal ingredients and a wonderful variety of flavours. Served harvest-style, there’s something for everyone.

Cost: R390pp, book via WhatsApp at 027 63 691 8912 or via Dineplan by Wednesday, 28 October 2026

When: Saturday, 31 October. Serving from 9am
Where: The Kitchen at L’antico Giardino, Pelindaba Rd, Nietgedacht 535-Jq, Lanseria

Take a look at what’s on the October menu

Exhibition – Tracing Distance: The Echoes of Silence

Tracing Distance: The Echoes of Silence is a curatorial project developed through the CPVC Curating Exhibitions: The Politics of Display course at Wits University.

In 2026, the course is conceptualised under the theme “An (An)archival Impulse”, inviting students to approach the Ernest Cole Collection at the Wits Historical Papers Research Archive not as a completed historical record, but as a living and relational resource that continues to generate questions, encounters and forms of knowledge in the present.

The exhibition space is proposed as a site in which the immaterial, the overlooked and the partially concealed might be encountered anew. Artists, curators and practitioners are invited in conversation through the exhibition programme.

The curatorial cohort is led by Ashleigh Cooper, Okuhle Gubuza, Tshegofatso Letwaba, Khulekani Magudulela, Paidamoyo Mkhonto,Thabang Muthumuni, Duduzile Veki and Zenande Xaba.

Cost: Free entry

When: Running from 31 October 2026 to 29 January 2027
Where: Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, 119 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg

Schweppes Joburg Gin Festival

The Schweppes Joburg Gin Festival showcases a wide variety of locally distilled, award-winning gins, offering a collection of some of the best gin South Africa has to offer.

In partnership with Schweppes, this year’s event showcases bigger and better displays. With more than 20 different local gin distillers, food trucks, and live performances from OSKIDO, TK Tequila, Tamara Dey, DJ Neps and Pedro Barbosa, attendees are in for a treat.

Guests can also expect mixology classes (free of charge), and for those who enjoy art, there are Sip & Paint classes too. Each ticket includes a complimentary gin cocktail on arrival.

Cost: R330pp; R1500 (group ticket for 5); R550pp (sip & paint). Book via Howler

When: Saturday, 31 October from 12pm to 10pm
Where: Syringa Park at Avianto Estate, Portion 61, Driefontein Farm, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift

Woodrock Adoption & Market Day

The Woodrock Adoption & Market Day is a special community day supporting Woodrock Animal Rescue.

Stop by and meet Woodrock rescue dogs, support local pet, lifestyle, gift, décor, food and handmade-product vendors and help fill the Woodrock bakkie with donations such as dog and cat food, blankets, towels, leashes, collars, bowls, toys, grooming products, cleaning supplies and bin bags.

All stall fees are donated directly to Woodrock Animal Rescue, and supporters are acknowledged through event communication and social media where appropriate. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 31 October from 9am to 2pm
Where: Fourways Crossing Bark Park, Cnr Winnie Mandela Drive, Sunset Avenue & Sunrise Boulevard, Fourways

Pressure releases in cinemas

Academy Award-winning Brendan Fraser and acclaimed actor Andrew Scott star in this historical war drama.

In the tense 72 hours before D-Day, General Dwight D. Eisenhower (Fraser) and Captain James Stagg (Scott) face an impossible choice: launch the most dangerous seaborne invasion in history or risk losing the war altogether.

When: The film opens in cinemas on 30 October
Where: Pressure will be available to watch in Ster Kinekor, Nu Metro and CineCentre cinemas nationwide.

The top movies arriving in Joburg cinemas

Antique Fair at Brooklyn Mall

It’s that time of the month again, when Brooklyn’s Antique Fair unpacks a world of fascinating and valuable antiques and fine art spanning a range of periods.

Vintage collectors and enthusiasts can explore a massive line of precious finds with up to 20 of Gauteng’s most prominent antique dealers displaying thousands of rare pieces to view and purchase.

Cost: Free entry

When: Saturday, 31 October from 9am to 3pm
Where: The Atrium at Brooklyn Mall, Corner of Veale Street and Fehrsen Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, Pretoria

Ultimate R&B Experience Tour

Brought by Remoakantse Holdings, the Ultimate R&B Experience Tour is a musical weekend featuring international R&B stars Brian McKnight, All-4-One, and SWV.

Brian McKnight remains one of the biggest names in contemporary R&B, and outside of his personal life, the Grammy-nominated artist is best known for his soulful vocals and signature ballads, including ‘Back at One’ and ‘One Last Cry’.

Legendary R&B trio SWV, on the other hand, are considered the blueprint for contemporary R&B girl groups, and they’re bringing their signature sound and incredible songs like ‘Weak,’ ‘Rain,’ and ‘Right here’, alongside Grammy Award-winning group All-4-One, whose hits include ‘I Swear’ and ‘I Can Love You Like That’.

Cost: R950pp to R2950pp, book via Webtickets

When: Friday and Saturday, 30 and 31 October at 6pm
Where: Sunbet Arena at Time Square Casino, 209 Aramist Ave, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria

Ramfest x Halloween

Ramfest’s Halloween edition lands in Pretoria with international headliners alongside South African rock and metal mainstays.

The lineup includes Silverstein, Ruff Majik, Phfat, The Tazers, Doomtrigger, Fuzigish, Human Nebula, Middle Grounds, Your Cynical Sanity, Man as Machine, Walk These Skies, Daisy Arson, Worms, among others. The event builds out a full festival-style production with multiple bars, merch, and food vendors.

Fans can expect hard-hitting sets, professional stage design, and high-output sound. Feel free to come dressed up for Halloween.

Cost: From R350pp to R449pp; VIP sold out. Book via Howler

When: Saturday, 31 October from 1pm to midnight
Where: Heartfelt Arena, 1000 Voortrekker Road, Pretoria Central

The Wonderboom Airshow

The Wonderboom Airshow is a premier annual aviation event held at the Wonderboom National Airport in Pretoria. featuring thrilling aerial performances and attracting thousands of families, aviation professionals, and aviation enthusiasts.

The event offers a platform for commercial carriers to debut their latest airliners and showcase their advanced technologies. The event also showcases military might with the participation of the South African Air Force (SAAF), with high-performance fighter jets and tactical helicopter displays.

Guests can enjoy aerobatics from South Africa’s finest display pilots, highlighting the mastery and rigorous training embedded within civilian sports aviation.

Beyond the aerial highlights, spectators can enjoy local food vendors, craft beer gardens, and a dedicated kids’ play zone, making it an all-inclusive outing for families.

Cost: R180pp; R140pp (Pensioners); R100pp (aged 3-12). Book via Ticketpro

When: Saturday, 31 October from 10am to 3pm. Gates open at 8am.
Where: Wonderboom Airport, Lintvelt Road, Doornpoort, Pretoria