Each week we hunt down the latest pop-up events, markets, parties, talks, tours, and other happenings so you don’t miss them. For a full guide to what’s on in Joburg, check out our online events calendar and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter guide to Joburg published every Thursday morning.
Here’s a look at five fresh events that caught our eye this week.
The Playground – Braamfontein Market
SAT JAN 29 Launching on Saturday at 73 Juta Street in Braamfontein, The Playground is a fresh new weekly market taking up the spot of the much-missed Neighbourgoods market. The Playground promises to bring back that Saturday magic with brilliant food and cocktails, live music performances, and the coolest collection of local fashion. Open 09:00–18:00, entrance is free until 11:00 thereafter costs R20. Note this is a cash-free environment so don’t forget your bank card!
Makhelwane Festival
FRI JAN 28–SUN JAN 30 A colourful and friendly community event, Soweto’s annual block party bash the Makhelwane Festival is back hosted in the lovely park at Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers in Orlando West. Expect yummy food stalls, live music, a bubbly garden, and a fashion market. Tickets cost R100-R150 or R250 for a weekend pass. Book online here.
Cion by Gregory Maqoma at Joburg Theatre
FRI JAN 28–SUN FEB 6 Multi-award-winning choreographer Gregory Maqoma, one of the leading names in contemporary African dance, brings back to the stage Cion, his acclaimed production inspired by Zakes Mda’s seminal novels Ways of Dying and Cion. For this series of performances at Joburg Theatre, Maqoma and the Vuyani Dance Company are joined by the Soweto Gospel Choir. Tickets R200, book online here.
Breathe, Concert at the Centre for the Less Good Idea
SAT JAN 29 Postponed from December 2021, the Centre for the Less Good Idea presents this special musical evening themed as an opportunity to reflect on the difficulties of the past year and celebrate our continuing human resilience. The musicians are all from in and around Joburg and particularly the Maboneng area, and include the Inselelo YeMbube Isicathamiya Choir from Jeppestown. Tickets R100, book online here.
Linksfield Ridge Heritage Hike with Joburg Heritage
SUN JAN 30 A unique opportunity to experience Joburg’s most impressive ridges, join Joburg Heritage for this hike across the Linksfield Ridge and through the Harvey Nature Reserve. The 5km walk is relatively strenuous and recommended for the fit. The tour starts in Morninghill and lasts approximately three hours. Booking is essential. Tickets for non-Joburg Heritage members cost R200. Book online here.