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 seven fresh events that caught our eye this week.
The Brothers Size at Market Theatre
UNTIL FEB 27 Written by Tarell Alvin McCraney, winner of the best screenplay Oscar for the incredible film Moonlight, the acclaimed play The Brothers Size comes to the Market Theatre stage for Black History Month. James Ngcobo directs an all-South African cast in this production that explores the complexities of brotherly relationships in theatre, poetry, music and dance. Tickets R90–R150, available online here.
Born in Joburg Food Truck Market
FRI FEB 4 & SAT FEB 5 Born in Joburg had its debut in December, and is the latest addition to Joburg’s weekend food market scene. In addition to eight of Joburg’s most popular food trucks, you’ll find live DJ sets, kiddies activities, a craft bar, rooftop experience, and the chance to rent an e-scooter and go for a spin around the neighbourhood. Takes place at Black Brick, in Sandton Central. Entrance costs R30, book in advance online here, kids under 12 free. Happening Fri Feb 16:00–21:00 and 11:00–16:00.
Katlego Mlambo pop-up at The Marabi Club
UNTIL MAR 26 Award-winning chef Katlego Mlambo hosts a two-month pop-up at the super atmospheric Marabi Club at Hallmark House. The pop-up marks an exciting return to the kitchen for the inventive young chef and the menu promises some of his finest signature plates and innovative new dishes. Dinner is served Thu-Sat and on select Sundays. Book a table here.
Nelson Mandela Square Antique Fair
SUN FEB 6 This monthly antique fair at Nelson Mandela Square is one of the biggest of its kind with dozens of top collectors and antique dealers from across the region taking part. From furniture and homeware to decorative arts and collectable memorabilia, set aside some time to go browsing and you’ll no doubt find something special. Takes place 10:00–16:00, entrance is free.
Cion by Gregory Maqoma at Joburg Theatre
UNTIL SUN FEB 6 Multi-award-winning choreographer Gregory Maqoma, one of the leading names in contemporary African dance, brings back to the stage Cion (pictured top) 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.
First Sundays at Victoria Yards
SUN FEB 6 Always a summer Sunday favourite, First Sundays is back at Victoria Yards for 2022 with open artist studios and galleries to explore, a lively pop-up market, plenty of places to grab lunch and deep house sets from DJs Christos & Lady Sakhe. Entrance is free.
The Playground in Braamfontein
SAT FEB 5 Following on from its phenomenal debut last week, Braamfontein’s new weekly market The Playground is the place to be on Saturdays. Taking up the old Neighbourgoods space at 73 Juta Street, there’s a fantastic range of delicious food stalls, cool local fashion, a great rooftop space on which to hang out and live music and DJs turning up the heat later on in the afternoon. Open 09:00–18:00, entrance is free until 11:00 thereafter costs R20. Note this is a cash-free environment, don’t forget your bank card! Kids enter free all day.