Top Things to Do in Joburg This Weekend (17–19 October 2025)

There’s never a dull moment in Johannesburg and this weekend, the city’s got its groove back with festivals, art, food, and feel-good energy. Whether you’re planning a big night out, a family day in the sun, or a quiet cultural moment, Joburg’s got something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in the city from 17 to 19 October.

Parklive Festival: Joburg’s Favourite Outdoor Music Experience

The much-loved Parklive Festival returns to Emmarentia this Saturday with a killer lineup that’s pure South African magic. Expect performances by Matthew Mole, Shekhinah, The Parlotones, Freshly Ground, Ross Learmonth, and more. Families, foodies, and festival lovers can enjoy great eats, beer on tap, and good vibes all day long.
When: Saturday, 18 October | 10am to 8pm
Where: Marks Park, Emmarentia
Cost: From R295pp (via Howler)

Gatsby – A Cirque Extravaganza

The Roaring Twenties come alive in Randburg as The Cirk restages its hit show, Gatsby – A Cirque Extravaganza. Expect glitz, gravity-defying acrobatics, and a modern circus spin on the drama and glamour of The Great Gatsby. It’s theatrical, dazzling, and pure escapism.
When: 18 October 2025 to 31 January 2026 | Fri & Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm
Where: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre
Cost: From R180pp (via Koid)

Goethe-Institut Turns 30

The Goethe-Institut South Africa marks three decades of cultural exchange between South Africa and Germany this Saturday. Expect an afternoon of family-friendly activities, live music, art exhibitions, birthday cake, and a celebration of creativity across continents.
When: Saturday, 18 October from 2pm
Where: Goethe-Institut South Africa, Parkwood
Cost: Free entry

Msaki & Jesse Clegg Live at Walter Sisulu Gardens

Two powerhouse voices share the stage for one magical afternoon. Msaki and Jesse Clegg bring a soulful fusion of sound to the Walter Sisulu Gardens this Sunday the perfect way to wind down the weekend surrounded by nature.
When: Sunday, 19 October | Gates open 12.30pm
Where: Walter Sisulu Gardens, Roodepoort
Cost: From R250pp (via Ticketpro)

Imagine Visionary Animals by Erla S. Haraldsdóttir

Explore a fusion of myth and modernity at Wits Origins Centre, where Icelandic artist Erla S. Haraldsdóttir presents Imagine Visionary Animals. The exhibition draws from ancient rock art and cultural archetypes, blending realism with symbolism to reimagine how we see the natural world.
When: Opens 16 October | Runs until 15 February 2026
Where: Origins Centre, Wits University, Braamfontein
Cost: R60 (adults), R30 (students) via Webtickets

The Maslow Sandton’s Friday Fivefold Indulgence

Start the weekend with a five-course feast at The Maslow Hotel’s Lacuna Bistro. Curated by Executive Sous Chef Thokozane Shongwe, this dinner series blends elegant dining with relaxed luxury a must for foodies who love a little flair with their flavour.
When: Friday, 17 October from 6pm
Where: Lacuna Bistro, The Maslow Hotel, Sandton
Cost: R1350 per couple (via Quicket)

The 12th European Film Festival

Cinephiles, this one’s for you. The European Film Festival screens 10 acclaimed films exploring love, family, and identity across the continent. Catch them at The Bioscope in Milpark or Nu Metro Hyde Park, and prepare for some thought-provoking storytelling.
When: 9–19 October
Where: The Bioscope (44 Stanley) & Nu Metro Hyde Park
Cost: From R90pp

Fatherhood at The Market Theatre

Winner of the Zwakala Festival, Fatherhood takes on one of South Africa’s most important stories the impact of absent fathers. The production, directed by Archie Oupa Matsetela, offers a moving and necessary look at fatherhood, love, and legacy.
When: Until 19 October | 3pm and 7pm
Where: Barney Simon Theatre, Market Theatre, Newtown
Cost: From R140pp (via Webtickets)

Magalies Mayhem Obstacle Race

Get ready for some mud-slinging fun at the Magalies Mayhem Obstacle Race. Set at the scenic Van Gaalen Cheese Farm, this high-energy event offers 5km and 10km routes (plus a mini kids’ race). Expect a day packed with laughs, fitness, and family-friendly chaos.
When: Saturday, 18 October | From 6am
Where: Van Gaalen Cheese Farm, Hartbeespoort
Cost: From R200–R600pp (book online)

Sip, Sparkle & Support with PinkDrive

Indaba Hotel’s PinkDrive Bubbly Brunch adds heart to your Sunday plans. Each ticket helps fund breast cancer awareness initiatives while guests enjoy brunch, mimosas, live entertainment, and a few sparkling surprises.
When: Sunday, 19 October
Where: Epsom Restaurant, Indaba Hotel, Fourways
Cost: R295pp (via email booking)

Pantone Sundays – Desert Taupe Edition

The city’s coolest fashion-meets-lifestyle experience, Pantone Sundays, returns with a new theme: Desert Taupe. Expect curated DJ sets from NKLY and Pona Colada, killer looks, and plenty of style inspiration under the Krugersdorp sun.
When: Sunday, 19 October | 1pm to 7pm
Where: Kromdraai Creativity & Impact Hub, Krugersdorp
Cost: From R250pp (via Quicket)

Johannesburg Garden Club Open Garden

Step into serenity at the Burkleigh House gardens in Randburg. Enjoy the champagne and salmon bar, browse the plant market, and enter raffles to win garden hampers or luxury getaways all proceeds go toward children’s welfare projects in Joburg.
When: 18 & 19 October | 10am to 4pm
Where: Burkleigh House, Ferndale
Cost: R100pp; kids under 12 free (via Quicket)

Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience

A must for music lovers, Dumza Maswana’s Umngqungqo Orchestral Experience blends isiXhosa traditional sounds with jazz and lush orchestral arrangements. It’s a moving tribute to African heritage that promises goosebumps from the first note.
When: Saturday, 18 October | 7.30pm
Where: John Kani Theatre, Market Theatre, Newtown
Cost: From R280pp (via Webtickets)

Movement That Matters Pilates Pop-Up

Find your balance and give back with Movement That Matters, a Pilates pop-up supporting the Remi Foundation. It’s the perfect blend of movement, mindfulness, and meaning plus a great excuse to grab a friend for a Saturday stretch.
When: Saturday, 18 October | 11.30am
Where: Nuru House Studio, 44 Stanley Ave
Cost: From R260pp (via Quicket)

Jozi Silent Book Club

Book lovers, this one’s for you. Bring your current read to the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, switch off, and enjoy an hour of peaceful reading followed by relaxed chats with fellow bookworms. It’s the perfect Sunday reset.
When: Sunday, 19 October | 10.30am
Where: Rose Gardens, Johannesburg Botanical Gardens
Cost: Free entry

Bonus: Pretoria & Beyond

Heading north? Thrifting at The Village in Hazelwood is a must for bargain hunters, featuring preloved finds from local boutiques and influencers. Or take the whole family to At The River’s Family Fun Fair in Centurion think carnival rides, live entertainment, and local food stalls galore.
When: 17–19 October
Where: Hazelwood & Centurion
Cost: From R30pp (via Quicket)

Joburg at Its Best

From art to acrobatics, brunches to book clubs, Joburg is buzzing this weekend. Whether you’re exploring with friends or flying solo, there’s something to make your weekend memorable because in this city, the good times never stop.

{Source:Whats on In Joburg}

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