Things to do
Things to Do in Joburg This Weekend: 29 to 31 August 2025
A packed Joburg weekend awaits
The last weekend of August is here, and Johannesburg is buzzing with everything from pop culture thrills to night markets, live music, and high-octane motoring. Whether you’re looking for family fun, an art-soaked Saturday, or a big night out, the city is offering it all. Here’s what you can look forward to between 29 and 31 August.
Pop culture takes centre stage
The Johannesburg Expo Centre is transforming into geek heaven for Comic Con Africa 2025, running from Thursday through Sunday. Expect celebrity appearances from Misha Collins and Jessie T. Usher, world-class cosplay competitions, gaming zones, and endless merch. If you’re a fan of comics, gaming, or pop culture, this four-day festival is where you’ll want to be.
Motorsport fever in Midrand
Car enthusiasts can head to Kyalami for the Festival of Motoring, back with more than 100 exhibitors and 22 automotive brands. From track drives to new car launches, it’s three days of fuel-soaked excitement at South Africa’s premier motoring showcase.
Markets under the stars
Joburg’s markets are out in force this weekend. Fourways Mall Night Market and the Randburg Night Market bring food, crafts, and live music to life under the evening sky. For daytime fun, the Vegan Hippie Connection Market in Greenside and the Rustic and Gourmet Market in Sandton offer everything from vegan treats and thrift fashion to organic produce and jewellery.
Music and stage magic
If you’re looking for live performances, the lineup is stellar. Jazz fans can catch the Mzantsi Jazz Awards at UJ’s Arts Centre, where Abigail Kubeka receives special recognition. Soul lovers will flock to Kings and Queens of Soul at Gold Reef City, while Zonke lights up Carnival City with her powerhouse vocals. In Springs, the Lekker Kuier Fees celebrates Afrikaans and country music with a family-friendly three-day festival. For theatre, don’t miss the final shows of Falace in Wonderland at Hotel Sky Sandton.
Art, food and conversations
The city’s cultural scene is thriving this weekend. Contra Joburg brings contemporary art to life across venues with open studios and performances, while JCAF’s Structures Exhibition dives deep into themes of space, place, and identity. At the Goethe-Institut, a panel titled Cultivating Resilience explores food, community, and sustainability, and there’s also a casual Game Afternoon for board game enthusiasts.
Food lovers are spoiled too, with the Cullinan Champagne, Chocolate, and Gin Fest and the Design Quarter Vintage Décor & Gifting Show that pairs shopping with Greek music and cuisine.
Get moving
Runners have plenty of choices. The WildJoburg Trail Run takes place at Thaba Trails with routes from 5 km to 20 km. There’s also the Crawford Sandton College Fun Run for families and the Kyalami Corner Half Marathon, offering 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km distances through scenic Midrand.
Party vibes and big festivals
Dance floors will be buzzing with Turn Up the Volume IX at Club AM and the Afrobiza Music Festival in Sandton, bringing Ibiza-inspired Afro house beats to Joburg. Pretoria also gets its share of action with the massive Scorpion Kings Live at Loftus Versfeld, drawing Amapiano fans from across Gauteng.
Family fun in Gauteng
Families can enjoy the carnival rides at Irene Village Mall Carnival or head to the Pretoria Oyster and Bubbly Festival for food and music with a twist. For something unique, the Taste B4 Travel North African Escape experience at Yadah Castle offers food, performance, and crafts inspired by North Africa.
A city that never slows down
From cutting-edge art to soulful music, from street food to supercars, Joburg proves once again that it has something for everyone. As winter fades, this last weekend of August is the perfect time to step out, soak in the city’s energy, and find your own reason to celebrate.
Also read: Pantone Sundays Returns: Joburg’s Summer of Colour is Back in 2025
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Source: What’s On In Joburg
Featured Image: CKBW
