Now that the last bit of winter is slowly making way for sunnier spring, it’s time to get out the house and enjoy what Joburg has to offer. Whether it’s dressing up like your favourite superhero, taking in the arts or getting fit, the city has no shortage of events to keep you entertained.
FNB Art Joburg
Smac Gallery
When: 13-15 September
Where: Sandton Convention Centre artjoburg.com
FNB Art Joburg brings together South African galleries for Joburg’s leading contemporary art fair. Enjoy this year’s exhibitors which include blank projects, Everard Read, Gallery MOMO, Goodman Gallery, Kalashnikovv, SMAC Gallery, Smith, Stevenson and WHATIFTHEWORLD all under one roof.
When you’re done looking at the displays, rub shoulders with the best of South Africa’s art world at art parties, film screenings, gallery brunches, off-site artist-led collaborations, special exhibitions and sundowner sessions.
Soweto Cheese and Wine Live
Ntuthuko Mthanti/ Twitter
When: 14 September
Where: Soweto Theatre Forecourt Corner sowetotheatre.com
Sip wine and nibble cheese while learning about how they’re made at the second annual Soweto Cheese and Wine Live. Local wines will be showcased along with cheese, there’ll be artisanal food stands and entertainment by local DJs and singers, such as, Ralf Gum, Sir LSG and Ayanda Jiya.
Museum Night
Pixabay
When: 19 September
Where: All across the city museum-night.co.za
Museum Night opens up the city’s museums after-hours to the public for free. Explore South Africa’s history between 5pm-10pm picking from participating institutions with no ticket needed.
This edition’s museums include the Apartheid Museum, Consitution Hill, Johannesburg Art gallery, Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre, Wits Art Museum and The Origind Centre (WITS). Each museum will be open for their current exhibitions which will be complemented by a secondary programme of workshops, performances, talks and other activities.
ComicCon Africa
Pixabay
When: 21-24 September
Where: Gallagher Convention Centre comicconafrica.co.za
After a successful first year, Comic Con Africa is back. Showcasing all elements of pop culture from cosplay to comic books and video games, this is one of the biggest entertainment conventions in the country.
This year’s international guest line-up includes the sci-fi legend William Shatner, King of the Seven Kingdoms Isaac Hempstead Wright, better known as Bran Stark, and The Falcon Anthony Mackie to name a few.
Stand-Up Joburg
Schalk Bezuidenhout/ Twitter
When: 23 September
Where: Emperors Palace emperorspalace.com
Laugh off the doom and gloom with the first annual Stand-Up Joburg comedy show bringing together some of the best names in SA comedy.
Mixing it up with local legends and new voices, those who will be keeping you laughing include Riaad Moosa, Joey Rasdien, Sifiso Nene, Ndumiso Lindi, Schalk Bezuidenhout, Lindy Johnson, Lihle Msimang, Mpho Popps, Celeste Ntuli, Krijay Govender and Mo Vawda; with guest performances by Morgan Beatbox and some of the 947 presenters and DJs.
Before we go on, surely you’ll want to get something to eat while you’re at this shopping venue. If so, check out this guide to 15 of the best Emperors Palace restaurants.
FNB Joburg 10KM CityRun
Newsport Media/ FNB City Run
When: 24 September
Where: FNB Bank City, Simmonds Street joburg10k.com
Whether you want to walk it, dance it, run it, the choice is yours. The FNB 10km CityRun is a great way to see your city on foot on Heritage Day.
With live music and entertainment from the starting line to the finish, this is a fun way to do your first 10km, practice your PB on a flat route or just take a stroll through the city with your friends.
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz
Neo Baepii/ Twitter
When: 26-28 September
Where: Sandton Convention Centre joyofjazz.co.za
South Africa’s oldest Jazz festival is back for its 22nd year. With a diverse programme featuring artists from a variety of jazz backgrounds, the festival has something for all tastes. The musical event will bring together international jazz superstars and leaders in South African jazz for three evenings packed with performances.
OnePlan Muddy Puppy
Muddy Puppy/ Facebook
When: 29 September
Where: Walkhaven Dog Park, Plot 77, Zwartkop quicket.co.za
Bring your best friend and crawl, climb, jump, bark and slide your way to the finish at Muddy Puppy. Get dirty with this 2.4km obstacle course which is open for humans (over 8 years old) and their dogs (over 1 years old). All those across the finish line will get medals and treats and a portion of the ‘Muddy Puppy’ proceeds will be donated to a chosen dog charity.
In The City
Wikicommons
When: 6 October
Where: Ellis Park inthecityjhb.co.za
This is the 7th edition of the inner-city festival which brings the headliners from Rocking the Daisies up to Joburg. This year the day-long event will feature international acts: The 1975, Russ and Tash Sultana alongside other artists from the US, UK and Nigeria.
Joburg Pride
@miightysiryn/ Twitter
When: 26 October
Where: Sandton prideofafrica.org
Johannesburg Pride celebrates South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community with a march to Sandton CBD. Join in the continent’s longest running parade which promotes equal rights, self-acceptance and is a celebration of South Africa’s diversity. The march is known for its loud colours and festive atmosphere and a space where everyone is welcome.
Checkout the 15 of the Best Emperors Palace Restaurants.
