Johannesburg, also known as Jozi or Joburg, is South Africa’s largest city and one of the most vibrant destinations in Africa. The city is a melting pot of cultures, art, music, and cuisine, which makes it an exciting place to be in. If you’re looking for some of the best entertainment in South Africa, Johannesburg events should be at the top of your list. From festivals to concerts, sports, and cultural events, Johannesburg has something for everyone.
Key Takeaways:
- Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and a top destination for entertainment.
- The city offers a diverse range of events and activities, including festivals, music concerts, sports, and cultural events.
- Johannesburg events showcase the city’s rich culture and vibrant energy.
Top Annual Johannesburg Events
If you’re looking for exciting events to attend in Johannesburg, there are plenty of annual festivals and celebrations to choose from. Here are just a few of the top events that take place every year:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg International Comedy Festival | March | A week-long festival featuring local and international comedians. |
| Johannesburg International Mozart Festival | January | A celebration of the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, with performances by renowned musicians. |
| Johannesburg Arts Alive International Festival | September | A month-long festival featuring music, theater, dance, and visual arts from around the world. |
| Johannesburg Pride | October | A week-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, with a parade and other events. |
| Johannesburg International Film Festival | November | A showcase of local and international films, with screenings and panel discussions. |
These are just a few examples of the many exciting annual events that take place in Johannesburg. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a sports fan, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Music and Concerts in Johannesburg
If you’re a music lover, Johannesburg is the place to be. The city boasts a vibrant music scene, with plenty of venues hosting both local and international artists throughout the year. Here are some upcoming music and concert events to look out for:
| Event | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Joburg Day | 4 September 2021 | Crocodile Creek Polo Club |
| Ultra South Africa | 13-14 February 2022 | NASREC Expo Centre |
| Oppikoppi Festival | TBA | Northam |
Aside from these major events, there are also plenty of music venues around the city that host regular live performances. The Bassline, located in the trendy suburb of Newtown, is a popular spot for live music and has hosted both local and international artists. Other notable venues include The Orbit in Braamfontein and The Good Luck Bar in Ferreirasdorp. Keep an eye on their schedules for upcoming performances that suit your musical taste.
Music Festivals in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is home to a variety of music festivals, catering to different genres and tastes. Here are some of the top music festivals to check out:
- Joy of Jazz Festival: A three-day jazz festival that takes place in September each year.
- Bushfire Festival: Held annually in May, this festival combines live music with arts and culture.
- Rocking the Daisies: This music festival, held in October, features a mix of local and international artists across different genres, from rock to indie to electronic.
Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or electronic music, there’s something for everyone in Johannesburg’s music scene. Check out some of these upcoming events and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant musical culture.
Arts and Cultural Events in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is a vibrant hub for arts and culture, with a wealth of events and activities to enjoy. From art exhibitions to theater performances and dance shows, there is something for everyone to appreciate. Here are some of the top arts and cultural events taking place in Johannesburg:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg International Comedy Festival | October | A comedic showcase featuring top local and international comedians. |
| Johannesburg Art Fair | September | A premier art event displaying contemporary African art from galleries around the world. |
| Johannesburg International Mozart Festival | January | A celebration of classical music and the works of Mozart through concerts, operas, and lectures. |
| Johannesburg International Dance Festival | April | A showcase of local and international dance performances and workshops. |
Whether you’re a lover of comedy, art, or music, Johannesburg has an event to suit your interests. Be sure to check out these top cultural events and experience the city’s vibrant arts scene firsthand.
Food and Drink Festivals in Johannesburg
Foodies and wine lovers rejoice! Johannesburg hosts a number of delicious food and drink festivals throughout the year, offering a chance to sample some of the city’s finest culinary offerings and local wines. Here are a few of the top festivals to look out for:
| Festival Name | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Taste of Joburg | Montecasino Outdoor Event Area | August |
| The Jozi Wine Route Festival | Various locations | April and November |
| Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival | Soweto Theatre | March |
At Taste of Joburg, sample signature dishes from some of the city’s top restaurants while enjoying live music performances. The Jozi Wine Route Festival takes visitors on a tour of some of the best vineyards in the area, while the Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival highlights the vibrant culture and history of Johannesburg’s Soweto township, as well as offering tastings of local wines.
For those who prefer craft beer, the annual Jozi Craft Beer Fest is not to be missed. This festival features a wide selection of locally brewed craft beers, as well as live music and food stalls.
Whether you’re a foodie, wine connoisseur, or just love a good craft beer, Johannesburg has plenty of delicious festivals to satisfy your cravings.
Sporting Events in Johannesburg
For sports enthusiasts, Johannesburg offers a plethora of thrilling events throughout the year. Soccer is the most popular sport in the city, with the Premier Soccer League being the top league in South Africa. The Soweto Derby, a match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, is a highly anticipated event that draws massive crowds to Johannesburg every year.
Rugby is also a beloved sport in Johannesburg, with the iconic Ellis Park Stadium being the home of the Lions rugby team. The stadium has hosted numerous international matches, including the 1995 Rugby World Cup final.
For those who prefer running over contact sports, Johannesburg hosts the annual Soweto Marathon, one of the biggest marathons in Africa. The marathon attracts thousands of participants from across the world and offers a scenic route through the vibrant Soweto township.
Other notable sporting events in Johannesburg include the Johannesburg Open golf tournament, the South African Tennis Open, and the Comrades Marathon, a grueling ultra-marathon that covers 90 kilometers between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
Family-Friendly Events in Johannesburg
Johannesburg offers a wide variety of family-friendly events and activities that will keep both children and adults entertained. From thrilling theme parks to interactive museums, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best options:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Gold Reef City | This amusement park offers thrilling rides, live shows, and a tour of a gold mine. It’s perfect for a fun-filled day with the family. |
| The Johannesburg Zoo | The Johannesburg Zoo is home to over 320 species of animals and offers a variety of activities such as animal encounters, guided tours and feeding shows. |
| The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre | This interactive science museum is fun for the whole family, and offers hands-on exhibits, workshops, and shows that will spark curiosity and learning. |
If you’re looking for something outdoors, Johannesburg has plenty of parks and playgrounds to choose from. For example, the Delta Park offers walking trails, bird-watching, and a large playground for children. Alternatively, the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is a beautiful location for picnics, bird-watching, and exploring the many gardens and trails.
Lastly, there are many entertainment venues that are family-friendly, such as the Montecasino Bird Gardens, which offers bird shows and a variety of animal experiences, and the Barnyard Theatre, which has regularly scheduled family shows with live music and performances.
Nightlife and Entertainment in Johannesburg
If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife and top-notch entertainment in Johannesburg, you won’t be disappointed. The city is full of bars, clubs, live music venues, and comedy shows that cater to a variety of tastes.
Nightclubs and Bars
Johannesburg has a bustling bar and club scene, with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a trendy rooftop bar, a cosy pub, or a swanky nightclub, you’ll find it in Johannesburg.
| Bar/Club | Description |
|---|---|
| The Living Room | Offers stunning rooftop views and a trendy atmosphere |
| The Great Dane | A Danish-inspired bar with a cool, industrial vibe |
| Hush | An intimate bar with a great selection of cocktails |
| Fiction | A popular nightclub with multiple dance floors and a rooftop bar |
Live Music Venues
Johannesburg has a thriving live music scene, with many venues hosting local and international acts. From small, intimate jazz clubs to large stadiums, there’s plenty of options for music lovers.
- The Orbit Jazz Club – A popular spot for jazz enthusiasts.
- The Bassline – A legendary music venue that has hosted many famous artists.
- The Ticketpro Dome – A large arena that hosts international acts and festivals.
Comedy Shows
Johannesburg is known for its lively comedy scene, with many venues hosting local and international comedians. Enjoy a night of laughter at one of these popular comedy clubs:
- Parker’s Comedy and Jive – A popular club that hosts local and international comedians.
- The Box Comedy – An intimate venue that offers a unique comedy experience.
- Goliath Comedy Club – A new club that has quickly gained popularity for its talented comedians.
With so many options for entertainment, Johannesburg is the perfect destination for those seeking a thrilling nightlife experience.
Festivals and Celebrations in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is a city that loves to celebrate, and throughout the year, there is a plethora of cultural, music, and holiday events that offer something for everyone. From colorful parades to vibrant music festivals, there is always a reason to come together and have fun in Johannesburg.
FNB JoburgArtFair
The FNB JoburgArtFair is one of the largest contemporary art fairs on the African continent, attracting art collectors, enthusiasts, and exhibitors from around the world. Hosted annually at the Sandton Convention Centre, the fair offers a unique opportunity to experience the best contemporary African art in one place.
Johannesburg Pride
Johannesburg Pride is an annual celebration of LGBT+ rights, diversity, and inclusion. Thousands of people from all over South Africa come together each year in support of the LGBT+ community, with a colorful parade and plenty of live music, dancing, and entertainment.
Diwali Festival
The Diwali Festival is a celebration of the Hindu festival of lights, offering a glimpse into Indian culture and traditions. Held annually at the South African State Theatre, the festival includes music, dance, and delicious food, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
New Year’s Eve at the Vaal
New Year’s Eve at the Vaal is a popular event that takes place on the banks of the Vaal River, just outside of Johannesburg. The event attracts thousands of people each year, and features live music, great food, and a magnificent fireworks display to ring in the New Year.
The Rand Show
The Rand Show is one of the largest consumer exhibitions in South Africa, showcasing the latest products and services across a wide range of industries. The event includes live music, entertainment, and a carnival atmosphere that makes it perfect for families and friends to enjoy together.
The Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival
The Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival is a celebration of the best South African wines, offering visitors the opportunity to sample the finest vintages from some of the country’s leading wine producers. The festival also includes live music, gourmet food, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for wine lovers and socialites alike.
Offbeat and Unique Events in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is known for its diverse range of events and entertainment options, but it also boasts an array of offbeat and unique events that are worth checking out. Here are some of the quirkiest gatherings and niche festivals that you won’t find anywhere else.
Joburg Zombie Walk
If you’re a fan of horror movies and all things zombie, then the Joburg Zombie Walk is the perfect event for you. This annual walk takes place in the streets of Johannesburg, with participants dressing up as the undead and limping through the city. It’s a fun and lighthearted event that attracts thousands of people every year.
Jozi Book Fair
The Jozi Book Fair is a three-day event that celebrates literature, education, and community activism. It brings together authors, publishers, and readers from all over the world to share ideas, learn from one another, and promote a love of reading. The fair includes talks, workshops, and book signings, as well as live music and poetry performances.
Beer Run
The Beer Run is a unique event that combines two of Johannesburg’s favorite pastimes: running and drinking beer. Participants run a 5k or 10k race, with beer stops along the way to keep them hydrated (or perhaps a bit less so). It’s a fun and festive event that celebrates the city’s love of fitness and craft beer.
Kruger2Canyon Challenge
The Kruger2Canyon Challenge is a grueling race that takes participants through some of the most scenic and challenging terrain in South Africa. The race starts in Kruger National Park and finishes in the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, covering a distance of 160km over five days. It’s a true test of endurance and a unique way to experience the beauty of the South African wilderness.
Whether you’re a fan of zombies, books, beer, or extreme sports, Johannesburg has an offbeat and unique event to suit your tastes. Be sure to check out these quirky gatherings and niche festivals to experience the city’s unconventional side.
Conclusion
From annual festivals to exciting sporting events, Johannesburg is teeming with a diverse range of top-tier entertainment options. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, culture connoisseur, foodie, or sports fan, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
With its lively nightlife scene and family-friendly attractions, Johannesburg truly has it all. So, no matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to find something exciting to do and experience in this lively African metropolis.
FAQ
Q: What are some of the top annual events in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg hosts a range of exciting annual events, including festivals, music concerts, and cultural celebrations. Some popular ones include the Johannesburg Arts Alive International Festival, the Joy of Jazz Festival, and the Soweto Wine Festival.
Q: Where can I find information about music concerts and festivals in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg has a vibrant music scene with regular concerts, music festivals, and live performances. You can find information about upcoming events from ticketing websites, music venues, and social media pages of local bands and artists.
Q: Are there any art exhibitions or theater performances happening in Johannesburg?
A: Absolutely! Johannesburg is a hub of arts and culture, with numerous art exhibitions, theater performances, and dance shows taking place throughout the year. Keep an eye out for events at galleries, theaters, and cultural centers in the city.
Q: Are there any food and drink festivals in Johannesburg?
A: Yes, Johannesburg is a food lover’s paradise! The city hosts a variety of food and drink festivals, showcasing culinary delights, wine tastings, craft beer events, and more. Check local listings and event websites for upcoming food festivals in the city.
Q: Are there any sporting events I can attend in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg is home to several thrilling sporting events, including soccer matches, rugby games, and marathons. Keep an eye on the schedules of local sports teams and events websites for information on upcoming sporting events in the city.
Q: What family-friendly events and activities are there in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg offers plenty of family-friendly events and activities, including parks, playgrounds, and entertainment venues. You can visit popular attractions like the Johannesburg Zoo, Gold Reef City, and various children’s museums for a fun-filled day with your family.
Q: Where can I find vibrant nightlife and entertainment options in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg’s nightlife is buzzing with bars, clubs, live music venues, and comedy shows. Areas like Melville, Rosebank, and Sandton are known for their vibrant nightlife. Check local listings and ask locals for recommendations to find the best entertainment options in the city.
Q: What festivals and celebrations can I experience in Johannesburg?
A: Johannesburg hosts a range of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including cultural, music, and holiday events. From the Johannesburg Carnival to the Diwali Festival of Lights, there’s always something festive happening in the city.
Q: Are there any offbeat or unique events in Johannesburg?
A: Absolutely! Johannesburg is known for its offbeat and unique events, including niche festivals, unconventional performances, and quirky gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings and social media for updates on these unique experiences.
Q: What can I conclude about Johannesburg events and top entertainment?
A: In conclusion, Johannesburg offers a diverse range of exciting events and top-tier entertainment options. From annual festivals to music concerts, arts exhibitions to family-friendly activities, and vibrant nightlife to offbeat experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic city.
