Top 20 Events in Johannesburg (2025)

Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant cultural and economic hub, buzzes with diverse events that showcase its rich heritage, creativity, and dynamic community. In 2025, the city’s event calendar is packed with festivals, markets, music performances, and sporting spectacles, catering to families, foodies, art lovers, and adventure seekers. From the iconic Soweto Derby to the culinary delights of Festival De Mexico, Johannesburg offers unforgettable experiences year-round. This evergreen guide highlights the top 20 events in Johannesburg, curated for their popularity, cultural significance, and appeal. Backed by insights from local sources like Joburg.co.za and What’s On in Joburg, this article provides essential details, dates, and tips to help locals and visitors plan their attendance. Whether you’re seeking comedy, history, or outdoor fun, Johannesburg’s event scene ensures there’s something for everyone in the City of Gold.

Top 20 Events in Johannesburg

1. Soweto Derby

• Date: March and August annually
• Location: FNB Stadium, Soweto
• Type: Sporting Event (Football)
• Details: South Africa’s most electrifying football match pits Kaizer Chiefs against Orlando Pirates, drawing over 90,000 fans. Expect vibrant fan displays, live music, and intense rivalry.
• Cost: R50–R300 (tickets via www.computicket.co.za)
• Why Attend: A cultural phenomenon showcasing Johannesburg’s passion for sport and community spirit.
• Contact: +27 11 941 1465, www.fnbsstadium.co.za

2. Festival De Mexico

• Date: 3 May 2025
• Location: Montecasino, Fourways
• Type: Food and Music Festival
• Details: Celebrate Mexican culture with tequila tastings, authentic cuisine, and live mariachi bands. The 12th edition promises a vibrant day out.
• Cost: R150–R250 (via www.quicket.co.za)
• Why Attend: A lively fusion of food, music, and festivity, perfect for foodies and party-goers.
• Contact: +27 11 510 7000, www.montecasino.co.za

3. Kamers/Makers Market – Autumn Edition

• Date: 30 April–4 May 2025
• Location: St David’s Marist, Sandton
• Type: Artisan Market
• Details: South Africa’s premier “up-market” event features local crafts, fashion, jewelry, and gourmet food, supporting small businesses.
• Cost: R80–R120
• Why Attend: Ideal for unique shopping and discovering local talent in a festive atmosphere.
• Contact: www.kamers.co.za

4. Laugh Africa Comedy Festival

• Date: April 2025 (TBD)
• Location: Sandton Convention Centre
• Type: Comedy Festival
• Details: Features South Africa’s top comedians, including Trevor Gumbi and Skhumba, in a night of laughter and entertainment.
• Cost: R200–R500 (via www.ticketpro.co.za)
• Why Attend: A must for comedy fans seeking a fun, high-energy evening.
• Contact: +27 11 779 0000, www.sandtonconventioncentre.com

5. Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Joburg Theatre

• Date: May 2025 (TBD)
• Location: Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein
• Type: Music Performance
• Details: The Grammy-winning isicathamiya group delivers powerful harmonies and cultural storytelling in an intimate setting.
• Cost: R250–R600
• Why Attend: A soulful celebration of South African heritage, perfect for music lovers.
• Contact: +27 11 877 6800, www.joburgtheatre.com

6. Swingin’ Las Vegas

• Date: 16–25 May 2025
• Location: The Teatro at Montecasino, Fourways
• Type: Musical Theatre
• Details: A high-energy Vegas-style show with swing music, dance, and dazzling costumes, returning due to popular demand.
• Cost: R150–R450 (via www.webtickets.co.za)
• Why Attend: A nostalgic, glamorous experience for theatre enthusiasts.
• Contact: +27 11 510 7000, www.montecasino.co.za

7. Ultra South Africa

• Date: 10 May 2025
• Location: Nasrec Expo Centre
• Type: Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Festival
• Details: The world’s biggest EDM festival features international DJs, stunning visuals, and a high-energy vibe.
• Cost: R500–R2,000 (via www.ultrasouthafrica.com)
• Why Attend: A bucket-list event for EDM fans and party-goers.
• Contact: www.ultrasouthafrica.com

8. India Shopping Festival

• Date: 18 April–4 May 2025
• Location: Greenstone Shopping Centre, Edenvale
• Type: Cultural and Shopping Festival
• Details: Showcases Indian fashion, jewelry, spices, and cuisine, with live performances and family-friendly activities.
• Cost: Free entry; purchases vary
• Why Attend: A vibrant celebration of Indian culture, ideal for shoppers and cultural enthusiasts.
• Contact: +27 11 452 1115, www.greenstoneshoppingcentre.co.za

9. SoundsWild Music Festival

• Date: April 2025 (TBD)
• Location: Sognage, Johannesburg
• Type: Music Festival
• Details: Features international act Youngr (UK) and South Africa’s GoodLuck, blending electronic and live music in an outdoor setting.
• Cost: R300–R800
• Why Attend: A high-energy night for music fans seeking a unique festival experience.
• Contact: www.breakoutevents.co.za

10. Andrea Bocelli 30th Anniversary Tour

• Date: 12–13 April 2025
• Location: SunBet Arena, Pretoria (accessible from Johannesburg)
• Type: Classical Music Concert
• Details: The world-renowned tenor performs his iconic arias, celebrating 30 years of music.
• Cost: R800–R3,000 (via www.ticketmaster.co.za)
• Why Attend: A rare chance to see a global legend, perfect for classical music lovers.
• Contact: +27 12 420 8000, www.sunbetarena.co.za

11. Joburg French Cine Club

• Date: Monthly, second Thursday (e.g., 8 May 2025)
• Location: The Bioscope, 44 Stanley, Milpark
• Type: Film Screening
• Details: Showcases French cinema, from classics to contemporary films, paired with wine and discussions.
• Cost: R80–R150
• Why Attend: A cultural evening for film buffs and Francophiles.
• Contact: +27 11 039 7306, www.thebioscope.co.za

12. Neighbourgoods Market

• Date: Every Saturday
• Location: 73 Juta Street, Braamfontein
• Type: Food and Craft Market
• Details: A bustling market with local food stalls, artisanal goods, and live music, attracting diverse crowds.
• Cost: Free entry; purchases vary
• Why Attend: A weekly staple for foodies and those seeking a vibrant social scene.
• Contact: www.neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za

13. Johannesburg Bach Choir

• Date: 4 May 2025
• Location: St Francis Anglican Church, Parkview
• Type: Choral Performance
• Details: Performs during the morning Eucharist service, featuring Bach’s sacred music.
• Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
• Why Attend: A serene, spiritual experience for classical music enthusiasts.
• Contact: www.johannesburgbachchoir.org.za

14. Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Musical

• Date: May 2025 (TBD)
• Location: Joburg Theatre, Braamfontein
• Type: Family Musical
• Details: A high-energy adaptation of Jeff Kinney’s beloved book series, perfect for kids and families.
• Cost: R120–R350
• Why Attend: A fun, laugh-out-loud show for young audiences and parents.
• Contact: +27 11 877 6800, www.joburgtheatre.com

15. Graham Beck Picnic for Mother’s Day

• Date: 11 May 2025
• Location: Various venues (TBD, often botanical gardens)
• Type: Family Event
• Details: A luxurious picnic experience with sparkling wine, gourmet food, and scenic surroundings.
• Cost: R500–R1,200 per basket
• Why Attend: A special way to celebrate Mother’s Day with family.
• Contact: www.grahambeck.com

16. Jullian Gomes House Event

• Date: 3 May 2025
• Location: Venue TBD (often Maboneng or Sandton)
• Type: Music Event
• Details: A curated house music night by South African DJ Jullian Gomes, featuring deep house and soulful beats.
• Cost: R200–R500
• Why Attend: A must for house music fans seeking a vibrant nightlife experience.
• Contact: www.quicket.co.za

17. Encounters South African International Documentary Festival

• Date: 19–29 June 2025
• Location: Various venues (e.g., The Bioscope, Rosebank)
• Type: Film Festival
• Details: Screens contemporary South African and international documentaries, with Q&A sessions.
• Cost: R50–R150 per screening
• Why Attend: A thought-provoking event for documentary lovers and filmmakers.
• Contact: www.encounters.co.za

18. Food Jams at Feastivity Cooking Studio

• Date: Monthly (TBD, often weekends)
• Location: Emperors Palace, Kempton Park
• Type: Culinary Event
• Details: Interactive cooking classes with themes like Korean BBQ or dumpling-making, blending food and fun.
• Cost: R300–R600
• Why Attend: Perfect for foodies and those seeking hands-on culinary experiences.
• Contact: +27 11 928 1000, www.emperorspalace.com

19. Rooftop Beach Club

• Date: Every Saturday
• Location: Various rooftop venues (e.g., Sandton or Rosebank)
• Type: Social Event
• Details: A summer-inspired rooftop party with cocktails, DJs, and city views, running weekly.
• Cost: R100–R300
• Why Attend: A trendy way to enjoy Johannesburg’s nightlife and skyline.
• Contact: www.webtickets.co.za

20. Joburg City Festival

• Date: September 2025 (TBD)
• Location: Various inner-city venues (e.g., Newtown, Maboneng)
• Type: Cultural Festival
• Details: Celebrates Johannesburg’s heritage with art exhibitions, live music, street food, and guided tours.
• Cost: Free–R200 (varies by event)
• Why Attend: A vibrant showcase of the city’s cultural diversity and history.
• Contact: www.joburgcityfestival.co.za

Why Johannesburg’s Events Are a Must-Visit

Johannesburg’s event scene thrives due to its cultural diversity, warm climate, and vibrant communities. Key factors include:

• Cultural Richness: Events like Ladysmith Black Mambazo and the India Shopping Festival highlight South Africa’s multicultural heritage.
• Year-Round Appeal: The city’s “Goldilocks weather” (not too hot, not too cold) supports outdoor events like Neighbourgoods Market and Rooftop Beach Club.
• Accessibility: Venues in Sandton, Soweto, and Braamfontein are easily reached via Uber, Bolt, or Gautrain, with rides from Park Station to Montecasino costing R80–R120.
• Community Engagement: Markets and festivals foster local talent and small businesses, as seen at Kamers/Makers and Joburg City Festival.
• Economic Impact: Events contribute to Johannesburg’s tourism, with 149 impactful events projected in the next 90 days of 2025, boosting local businesses.

Tips for Attending Events in Johannesburg

1. Book Early: Secure tickets for popular events like Ultra South Africa or Andrea Bocelli via platforms like Computicket, Ticketpro, or Quicket to avoid sell-outs.
2. Check Schedules: Visit www.whatsoninjoburg.com or www.joburg.co.za for updated event dates, especially for TBD events like SoundsWild.
3. Plan Transport: Use ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt) for safety and convenience, especially in Soweto, where public transport can be unreliable.
4. Arrive Early: Venues like FNB Stadium and Sandton Convention Centre get crowded; arrive 30–60 minutes early for parking and entry.
5. Budget Wisely: Free events like Neighbourgoods Market are great for low budgets, while premium events like Andrea Bocelli require planning (R800+).
6. Dress Appropriately: Casual attire suits markets and festivals; formal wear is recommended for theatre shows like Swingin’ Las Vegas.
7. Stay Safe: Keep valuables secure in crowded venues like Nasrec Expo Centre and avoid walking alone at night in areas like Braamfontein.

Challenges and Considerations

• Traffic and Parking: Events at Montecasino or FNB Stadium face congestion; use ride-hailing or arrive early to secure parking.
• Cost Variability: High-profile events (e.g., Ultra South Africa, R2,000) can be pricey, though free or low-cost options like Joburg City Festival balance the scene.
• Weather Dependence: Outdoor events like Festival De Mexico may be affected by rain; check forecasts and venue contingency plans.
• Venue Accessibility: Some venues, like Sognage, are less central, requiring longer travel (30–40 minutes from Sandton).

Johannesburg’s Event Landscape in 2025

The city’s 2025 calendar reflects global trends, with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and technology:

• Sustainability: Events like Graham Beck Picnic promote eco-friendly venues, aligning with Johannesburg’s green initiatives.
• Inclusivity: Festivals like India Shopping Festival and Joburg City Festival celebrate diverse cultures, fostering community unity.
• Digital Integration: Online ticketing (Quicket, Webtickets) and event apps (AllEvents.in) simplify planning, with real-time updates.
• Economic Boost: Events drive tourism, with platforms like PredictHQ noting 149 major events in Q2 2025, enhancing Johannesburg’s global appeal.

How to Stay Updated

• Websites: Check www.whatsoninjoburg.com, www.joburg.co.za, or www.eventbrite.com for curated event listings.
• Newsletters: Subscribe to AllEvents.in or What’s On in Joburg for weekly updates on new events.
• Social Media: Follow venues like Joburg Theatre (@JoburgTheatre) or Montecasino (@MontecasinoZA) for announcements.
• Apps: Download Quicket or Fever for ticket purchases and event discovery.

FAQs About the Top 20 Events in Johannesburg

What are the best family-friendly events in Johannesburg?

Diary of a Wimpy Kid – The Musical, Graham Beck Picnic, and India Shopping Festival offer activities for kids and families.

Are there free events in Johannesburg?

Yes, Neighbourgoods Market, Joburg City Festival, and Johannesburg Bach Choir are free or donation-based.

How can I buy tickets for Johannesburg events?

Purchase via www.computicket.co.za, www.ticketpro.co.za, www.quicket.co.za, or www.webtickets.co.za. Some events offer in-store options at Pick n Pay.

What are the top music events in Johannesburg?

Ultra South Africa, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Andrea Bocelli, and Jullian Gomes House Event cater to EDM, traditional, classical, and house music fans.

Is Johannesburg safe for event-goers?

Most venues are secure, but use ride-hailing apps and avoid isolated areas at night for safety.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s top 20 events in 2025, from the high-octane Soweto Derby to the cultural Joburg City Festival, showcase the city’s dynamic spirit and diversity. Whether you’re drawn to music, food, comedy, or family fun, these events offer unforgettable experiences in iconic venues like Montecasino, FNB Stadium, and Joburg Theatre. Plan ahead with platforms like What’s On in Joburg, secure tickets early, and use ride-hailing for convenience. With a mix of free and premium events, Johannesburg’s calendar caters to all budgets and interests, cementing its status as South Africa’s cultural epicenter. Dive into the City of Gold’s vibrant event scene and create lasting memories.