Your Weekend Guide To Johannesburg: What’s Happening From 16 To 18 January

The festive fog has lifted, inboxes are filling up again, and Joburg is officially back in business. But while the weekdays are back to full throttle, the city’s weekends are still bringing the fun.

From packed cricket stands and theatre lights to laid-back outdoor experiences and culture-filled afternoons, here’s what’s worth leaving the house for this weekend in Johannesburg.

Big energy and summer sport

Betway SA20 League: Joburg Super Kings vs Pretoria Capitals

There’s nothing quite like a summer evening at The Wanderers, and SA20 match days have turned cricket into one of Joburg’s biggest social events. Think live entertainment, family-friendly activations and plenty of city pride in the stands.

With tickets starting at just R20, it’s an easy win for a Saturday night out, and judging by the online buzz, this one is expected to draw a lively crowd.

When: Saturday, 17 January from 5.30pm
Where: The Wanderers Club, Illovo

Theatre nights worth dressing up for

CATS the musical

One of the world’s most recognisable musicals arrives in Joburg this weekend, bringing its iconic score, elaborate costumes and theatrical spectacle to Montecasino. For theatre lovers, this is a big-ticket moment on the 2026 cultural calendar.

When: From Friday, 17 January to 22 February
Where: The Teatro, Montecasino

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Bright, fast-paced and family-friendly, this musical favourite returns after a successful 2025 run. Expect familiar songs, plenty of colour and a production that works just as well for first-timers as it does for repeat audiences.

When: Thursday to Sunday, 15 to 18 January
Where: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Main Theatre

Big Top Rock

Rock classics meet circus spectacle in this high-energy production. Expect aerial acts, big vocals and a soundtrack packed with familiar anthems.

When: Thursday, Friday and Sunday
Where: Barnyard Theatre, Emperors Palace

Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza

With its final performances taking place, this Roaring Twenties-inspired circus show is a last-chance watch. Glamour, drama and impressive acrobatics come together in a visually rich production.

When: Saturday, 17 January
Where: The Cirk at Cresta

Music and movie nostalgia

Candlelight concerts: The best of Hans Zimmer

Candlelight concerts have become a favourite on Joburg’s live music calendar, and this Hans Zimmer tribute taps straight into movie nostalgia. Expect powerful film scores in an intimate, atmospheric setting.

When: Friday, 16 January at 8.30pm
Where: Shepstone Gardens

Classic Movie Sundays: Stand By Me

The Bioscope’s classic screenings are a weekend staple for local film lovers. This Sunday’s choice is Stand By Me, a coming-of-age film that continues to resonate across generations.

When: Sunday, 18 January from 4pm
Where: The Bioscope Independent Cinema

Art, science and curious minds

Dark Universe at Wits Digital Dome

This immersive experience takes audiences on a journey through space, from Jupiter’s atmosphere to the origins of the universe. It’s educational, visually striking and ideal for curious kids and adults alike.

When: Friday and Saturday
Where: Wits Digital Dome, Braamfontein

Newwork25 graduate exhibition

Featuring work by emerging artists from the Wits School of Arts, this exhibition reflects experimentation, identity and creative growth. It’s a strong reminder of the fresh talent shaping Joburg’s art scene.

When: Until 7 February
Where: Wits Art Museum

Universum. Mensch. Intelligenz

An interactive STEM exhibition that explores the universe, human history and artificial intelligence through hands-on displays. It’s especially popular with families and school holiday visitors.

When: Until 11 March
Where: Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, Parkwood

Outdoors, wellness and community vibes

Girls on Bikes: Hello January ride

This easy-paced group cycle is all about connection, not speed. Expect a relaxed route, plenty of regrouping and a supportive community atmosphere.

When: Saturday, 17 January from 8.30am
Where: 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark

Eldorado Park Pajama Run

A fun twist on the traditional parkrun, this birthday celebration invites runners and walkers to show up in pyjamas and start the weekend on a light-hearted note.

When: Saturday, 17 January from 8am
Where: Eldorado Park Stadium

Berry picking at Field Berry Farm

If you’re craving a break from the city, berry picking offers a slower-paced weekend escape. Fresh raspberries, open space and a family-friendly setup make it an easy daytime outing.

When: Saturdays and Sundays
Where: Field Berry Farm, Walkerville

Food and fire

Fire and Feast: Braai mastery

Few traditions are as deeply South African as the braai. This hands-on class dives into fire, flavour and technique, with plenty of shared stories around the grill.

When: Saturday, 17 January from 11am
Where: Vitality HealthyFood Studio, Sandton

Whether you’re easing back into routine or determined to make the most of summer while it lasts, Joburg’s weekend lineup has something for every mood.

{Source: What’s on in Joburg}

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