Your Ultimate Joburg Weekend Guide: (30 January to 1 February)

Joburg is shaking off the first month of the year with a packed calendar of markets, theatre, festivals, sport, music and family fun. Whether you’re easing into 2026 or ready to dive straight into the energy of the city, here’s your refreshed guide to what’s happening around town.

Lions Vs Vodacom Bulls At Ellis Park

The Lions and Bulls reignite one of South Africa’s fiercest rugby rivalries this weekend. Expect fast-paced phases, hard tackles and that signature Gauteng derby tension as both teams go head to head in the United Rugby Championship. It’s the perfect way to kick off your Saturday afternoon.

Cost: From R60pp via TicketPro
When: Saturday, 31 January at 2.30pm
Where: Ellis Park Stadium, Staib St, New Doornfontein

Ground Cru Summer Edition: Passport To The Cape

This Muldersdrift wine celebration brings flavours from the Cape to Jozi for two sunny days. Stroll between wine stands, enjoy gourmet food, listen to live music and soak up the relaxed outdoor atmosphere. Kids are welcome and kept busy with pony rides, jumping castles and face painting.

Cost: Saturday R470pp, Sunday R350pp, R120pp (kids u/18), free (kids u/3), VIP R1200pp (Book on Howler)
When: Saturday and Sunday, 31 January to 1 February from 11am to 7pm
Where: Ground The Venue, Muldersdrift

Fourways Mall Night Market

The 2026 season kicks off with a wellness-inspired theme, but your favourite market treats and lifestyle vendors are still at the heart of it. With live entertainment, competitions and free parking after 5pm, it’s a comfy Friday night out for families, food lovers and casual browsers.

Cost: Free entry
When: Friday, 30 January from 4pm to 9pm
Where: Fourways Mall rooftop parking

Cats At The Teatro

The legendary musical returns with its iconic score, whimsical costumes and original choreography that made it a global hit. Fans can expect the beloved classics and a spectacular large-scale set that transforms Montecasino into the world of the Jellicles.

Cost: From R280pp to R580pp (Book via Webtickets)
When: Until 22 February
Where: The Teatro, Montecasino

Close Encounters At The Wits Digital Dome

Experience a wildlife documentary like never before with this fully immersive digital safari. Directed by Telmo dos Reis, the production blends spatial sound, powerful visuals and a riveting conservation narrative that highlights Africa’s most iconic species.

Cost: R130pp (Book via Webtickets)
When: Sunday, 1 February at 11am
Where: Wits Digital Dome, Braamfontein

BLOND:ISH Presents Abracadabra

For the first time ever, BLOND:ISH brings her globally recognised Abracadabra experience to Johannesburg. Expect uplifting, genre-blending sounds and an atmosphere that feels both electric and intimate.

Cost: From R550pp {Book via Howler}
When: Friday, 30 January from 6pm to 2am
Where: Old Park Station, Newtown

Coming Of Age By Kitchen Mess

Soweto’s creative community returns with a reimagined Coming of Age celebration. Catch performances from Kabza de Small, Oscar Mbo, Emtee, Darque, Lulo Cafe and more as this vibrant cultural showcase honours growth, creativity and local artistry.

Cost: R150pp to R350pp (Book via Webtickets)
When: Saturday, 31 January from 12pm
Where: Chiawelo Community Hall, Soweto

Randburg Night Market

This monthly favourite brings together street food, live music and a bustling craft market. It’s an easygoing, affordable night under the stars and a great way to support small local makers.

Cost: R30 adults, R10 u/18
When: Saturday, 31 January from 5pm to 10pm
Where: Randburg Mets Baseball Grounds

Queen:It’s A Kinda Magic

The world-touring tribute show brings Freddie Mercury’s legacy to life with striking vocals, big staging and all the classics that defined Queen’s sound.

Cost: R180pp to R390pp (Book Via Webtickets)
When: 30 January to 8 February
Where: Nelson Mandela Theatre, Joburg Theatre

South Africa Vs England Netball Series

Ellis Park Arena hosts a weekend of top-tier international netball, featuring both men’s and women’s fixtures across South Africa, England and Australia.

Cost: R100pp; R70 per child; R500 VIP (Book via Netball SA) 
When: Thursday to Sunday, 29 January to 1 February
Where: Ellis Park Arena, New Doornfontein

We Are Trance Presents Nifra

Electronic music lovers can catch Slovakian DJ Nifra performing live as part of the We Are Trance series. High-energy sets and a packed dancefloor are guaranteed.

Cost: From R500pp
When: Saturday, 31 January from 5pm to 1am
Where: The Soundroom, Kyalami

The Fashion Workshop Series

House of Ayanda hosts a three-day creative intensive covering design, photography, modelling, branding, retail and visual identity. Perfect for emerging designers looking to level up.

Cost: R650pp (one day); R1500pp (full access) (Book via Quicket)
When: 29 to 31 January
Where: Tweak ‘n Style Studio, Hyde Park

Emo Night: My Chemical Romance Forever

Celebrate the tenth birthday of Emo Night with a full tribute to The Black Parade album, themed décor, tattoo flash and classic emo anthems.

Cost: From R150pp
When: Saturday, 30 January from 9pm to 2am
Where: Democracy Bar, Illovo

My Friend Toto’s DJ Workshop

A relaxed beginner-friendly DJ experience where you’ll learn the basics, experiment on decks and enjoy sundowners afterwards.

Cost: From R300pp (Book via Quicket)
When: Sunday, 31 January from 2pm to 6pm
Where: Democracy Bar, Illovo

Johannesburg International Mozart Festival: Resonance

Experience world-class woodwind artistry from local and international musicians in a refined afternoon concert.

Cost: From R220pp
When: Sunday, 1 February from 4pm to 5.15pm
Where: Villa Arcadia, Parktown

{Source:What’s On in Joburg}

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