Things to Do in Johannesburg This Weekend

Johannesburg comes alive on weekends with events, markets, parks, cultural spots and nightlife, whether you’re a local, tourist, family, couple or young professional. Here’s a dynamic guide to make the most of your weekend in Johannesburg, updated and evergreen with ideas that work any time.

Family‑Friendly Weekend Activities

Zoo Trot 5km Run & Walk

Get active together at the Johannesburg Zoo’s Zoo Trot a 5 km fun run/walk suitable for all ages (around R78 entry) and a great way to see wildlife and enjoy fresh air.

Johannesburg Zoo Weekend

Meet over 320 species, enjoy picnic spots and animal encounter activities inside the zoo. Pack lunch and make a full day of family fun.

Linden Market at Botanical Gardens (Saturday only)

Browse crafts, vintage clothing, food stalls and live music while kids play ideal for relaxed morning or afternoon visits.

Free Nature Walks & Picnics

Explore parks like Delta Park, Emmarentia Botanical Gardens or Northcliff Ridge Eco Park for scenic picnics and free walks nature‑lovers’ favourites without spending a rand.

Couples & Romantic Ideas

Cap Classique & Bubbles Festival

Toast your weekend with sparkling wine and live music at this bubbly affair elegant, fun and great for dates.

The Wilds or Botanical Garden Picnics

Have a sunset picnic with panoramic views or a peaceful walk affordable and romantic ways to connect.

Joburg Theatre Shows

Catch a dance, musical or theatre production (Friday–Sunday) perfect for a date night with culture and live performance.

Neighbourgoods Market (Braamfontein)

Enjoy artisanal food, drinks and live music; couples can grab a bite and toast to local cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

Free & Cheap Weekend Experiences

Randburg Night Market / Rosebank Sunday Market

Browse stalls, craft goods, street food and entertainment markets like Rosebank’s Sunday Market are free and great for exploring local culture.

Parkruns & Outdoor Fitness

Lace up for a free parkrun, enjoy a social run or simply walk one of Jozi’s many green spaces with friends.

Picnic & Park Spots

Places like Zoo Lake, James & Ethel Grey Park and Emmarentia are perfect for a wallet‑friendly outdoor day with snacks from home.

Explore Markets & Open‑Air Events

Markets throughout the city offer free entry, live music and kids’ entertainment a classic cheap weekend hit for locals and visitors alike.

Night Activities & Evening Fun

Night Markets & Rooftop Hangouts

Check out markets and rooftop experiences that often extend into the evening perfect for grabbing food, drinks and music after sunset.

Live Music & Benefit Concerts

Events like the Black Coffee Foundation benefit concert celebrate local and African music with powerful live shows.

Dinner & Drinks Spots

Top nightlife precincts Melrose, Rosebank and Braamfontein offer lounges and bars for late‑night rendezvous or fancy eats before a show or concert.

Culture, History & Markets

Visit Museums & Art Spaces

Add a dose of culture to your weekend with a visit to galleries like Standard Bank Art Gallery showcasing local work in the heart of Marshalltown.

Kwa Mai Mai Traditional Market

Experience Johannesburg’s cultural hub a vibrant space of crafts, indigenous culture and food traders.

Gold Reef City Theme Park

For an action‑packed weekend (rides, history and fun), spend a day at this classic amusement spot near the city centre.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Weekend

Plan ahead: Check weekend schedules for seasonal events like wine festivals, art fairs or theatre shows, which may require bookings or tickets.
Budget smart: Markets and parks offer lots of free or cheap options pack snacks, bring water and enjoy the day.
Mix it up: Combine nature strolls by day with markets or theatre shows in the evening for variety.
Safety first: Johannesburg is a vibrant city stick to reputable venues and main precincts, especially at night.

Whether you’re looking for family fun, romance, free experiences or nightlife adventures, Johannesburg’s weekend calendar is rich with options, making it easy to plan fun, memorable and affordable experiences every week.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com