It’s another jam-packed weekend in Johannesburg, where global stars meet local culture, design meets digital innovation, and every corner of the city hums with life. Whether you’re a music lover, an art enthusiast, a foodie or simply chasing some sunshine and jacaranda blooms, here’s your ultimate guide to what’s happening across the city this weekend.
Travis Scott Brings His Circus Maximus World Tour to Joburg
Global superstar Travis Scott is set to light up FNB Stadium with his Circus Maximus World Tour this Friday. Presented by Castle Lite Unlocks, the event marks the artist’s long-awaited return to South Africa after six years and promises the kind of electrifying visuals and high-energy performances that have made his world tour a global spectacle.
Cost: R685pp to R6320pp
When: Friday, 11 October | Doors open at 4pm
Where: FNB Stadium, Soccer City Ave, Nasrec, Johannesburg
Book: Ticketmaster
Fans have already flooded social media with excitement, calling it “the biggest live show of the year.” Expect pyrotechnics, global hits and a crowd that won’t stop roaring.
Hennessy Back To The City Festival
The city’s iconic hip-hop celebration, Back To The City Festival, returns to Mary FitzGerald Square on Saturday with a massive lineup. The 2025 edition is headlined by Grammy-winning rapper Lupe Fiasco, joined by local heavyweights Cassper Nyovest, A-Reece, Big Zulu, Emtee, Maglera Doe Boy, Brother Kupa, Mfana Touchline, 25k, and Loatinover Pounds.
Adding to the nostalgia, this year’s Heritage Moment Legends Celebration honours M’du and Tuks, recognising their lasting influence on South African hip-hop.
Cost: R200pp to R500pp (General) | R1500pp to R2500pp (VIP) | R10000 to R30000 (VIP Tables)
When: Saturday, 11 October from 12pm
Where: Mary FitzGerald Square, 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Book: Webtickets
This annual festival continues to be a celebration of rhythm, rebellion and raw Joburg creativity.
Fak’ugesi Festival: Power Surge
Africa’s digital heartbeat pulses in Braamfontein this week with Fak’ugesi 2025: #PowerSurge. The festival celebrates Africa’s creative tech community with immersive exhibitions, roundtable talks, panels, and masterclasses, plus a day dedicated to families.
Cost: From R50pp
When: Tuesday to Sunday, 7 to 12 October | Public programme: Thursday, 9 October (8:30am – 4:30pm), Friday and Saturday (8am – 5pm), Sunday (8am – 2pm)
Where: Braamfontein, Johannesburg (Origins Centre, Wits Anglo American Digital Dome & Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, 41 Juta St)
Book: Quicket
Expect a week of creative experimentation, collaboration and digital storytelling that places Joburg firmly at the centre of Africa’s innovation scene.
Design Week South Africa
After a bold debut last year, Design Week South Africa returns to showcase how design shapes the way we live, work and connect. The event features around 15 exhibitions, workshops and pop-ups at venues across the city, spotlighting sustainable and locally inspired creativity.
Cost: Most events are free, though some require RSVPs
When: Thursday to Sunday, 9 to 12 October | Various times
Where: Various venues in Johannesburg
Expect immersive experiences, exclusive design showcases and thought-provoking conversations led by Watershed and Twyg — a perfect creative fix for the curious and the stylish.
Africa Textile Talks: Joburg Edition
In celebration of African craftsmanship and innovation, Africa Textile Talks is hosting a special Joburg edition at 44 Stanley Avenue. The programme blends exhibitions, panel discussions and creative exchanges throughout the weekend.
The highlight is Threads of Renewal II by Tandekile Mkize, which shines a light on sustainable and regenerative textile practices. Saturday’s panel includes Sheli Masondo (costume designer for Shaka iLembe), Khensani Mohlatlole, Tertius Schoeman, and Wacy Zacarias, who will explore circular fashion and how African heritage continues to inspire modern design.
Cost: Talks – R50pp | Exhibition & Book Talk – Free
When: 9 to 12 October | Talks: Saturday, 11 October (10am – 1:30pm)
Where: The Bioscope & The Library at 44 Stanley
Book: Quicket
The weekend concludes with an inspiring Sunday book talk.
Pamper with Purpose at Mowana Spa
Recharge your spirit at Mowana Spa’s African Rejuvenation Full Day Pamper Journey, hosted at Indaba Hotel. As part of the PinkDrive Give Back Initiative, R200 from every booking will be donated to support breast cancer awareness and mobile health services across South Africa.
Cost: R1999pp (R200 donated to PinkDrive)
When: 1 to 31 October | Wednesday to Sunday
Where: Mowana Spa at Indaba Hotel, cnr. William Nicol Drive & Pieter Wenning Road, Fourways
Book: reservations@mowanaspa.co.za
The 12th European Film Festival
Film lovers can look forward to the 12th European Film Festival in South Africa, screening at select cinemas in Joburg. Running from 9 to 19 October, the festival features 10 contemporary films exploring themes of love, identity, family and belonging — each capturing Europe’s evolving social landscape.
Cost: From R90pp
When: 9 to 19 October
Where: The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark & Nu Metro Hyde Park
Book: Online
From poetic dramas to breathtaking landscapes, this cinematic journey is a must for those craving stories that move both heart and mind.
WGRUV Dance Company Presents “Art Effect”
The WGRUV Dance Company brings their latest production, Art Effect, to the UJ Arts & Culture Venue. Expect an energetic blend of classical technique and cultural narrative through four original choreographies performed by some of Joburg’s most talented dancers.
Cost: R99pp – R220pp (General) | R170pp (Pensioners) | R155pp (Groups of 10+) | R99pp (Children under 12)
When: Friday to Sunday, 10 to 12 October | Friday (7pm), Saturday & Sunday (3pm)
Where: University of Johannesburg, Corner Kingsway Ave and University Rd, Auckland Park
Book: Webtickets
Each performance delivers an inspiring artistic conversation between body, culture and identity.
Friday Fivefold Indulgence
Kickstart your weekend with a five-course dining experience at Lacuna Bistro, inside The Maslow Hotel in Sandton. Curated by Executive Sous Chef Thokozane Shongwe, the menu celebrates seasonal ingredients with refined elegance.
Cost: R1350 per couple
When: Friday, 10 October from 6pm
Where: Lacuna Bistro, The Maslow Hotel, 146 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
Book: Quicket
With a Smart Elegant dress code, it’s the perfect date night for those who enjoy sophistication with a side of indulgence.
Klink Art Wine Experience
Art, wine and music come together at Klink Art Wine Experience, returning for its second edition in Rosebank. Enjoy gallery tours, interactive artist sessions, live music and tastings of exceptional wines in a vibrant, creative setting.
Cost: From R250pp (R310pp on the day)
When: Saturday, 11 October from 12pm to 8pm
Where: 223 Jan Smuts Ave, Rosebank
Book: Quicket
Expect a mix of culture, community and creativity — and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.
Sunset Music Series Presents Zonke & Simmy
Round off your weekend in harmony at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, where the Sunset Music Series features soulful performances by Zonke and Simmy. Set against lush gardens and golden light, it’s the ideal way to unwind.
Cost: From R295pp
When: Sunday, 12 October from 12pm to 5:30pm
Where: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort
Book: Webtickets
Pack a picnic blanket and let the music carry you away under the African sky.
Joburg Ballet Presents “First Light”
The Joburg Ballet returns to the Nelson Mandela Theatre with First Light, a tribute to the visionaries shaping the future of ballet. The programme features Raymonda, Concerto for Charlie and Classics of Spain, as well as original works by rising stars Tumelo Lekana and Chloé Blair.
Cost: R130pp – R510pp
When: Thursday to Sunday, 9 to 12 October | Various showtimes (11am, 2pm, 7pm)
Where: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Blvd, Braamfontein
Book: Webtickets
A graceful fusion of tradition and innovation, this season captures South African dance at its most inspiring.
Jacaranda Painting Workshop
Celebrate Joburg’s purple season with Liz Warren’s Jacaranda Painting Workshop in Parkview. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this creative session offers the chance to capture the city’s signature bloom.
Cost: R875pp
When: Friday, 10 October (9am – 1pm) | Saturday, 11 October (1pm – 4pm)
Where: Liz Warren Art Studio, 12 Roscommon Rd, Parkview
Book: Quicket
All art materials, tuition and refreshments are included, and each participant leaves with one or two ready-to-hang paintings — perfect as a keepsake or gift.
ICON Comic & Games Convention
South Africa’s longest-running pop culture event, the ICON Comic & Games Convention, celebrates its 29th year this weekend at Crawford International – Lonehill. Expect a three-day explosion of board games, Dungeons & Dragons, cosplay, workshops and merchandise galore.
Cost: Friday: R65pp (R30 under 13) | Saturday/Sunday: R115pp (R55 under 13) | Weekend Pass: R195pp (R95 under 13) | Free for kids under 6
When: Friday to Sunday, 10 to 12 October | Friday (12pm – 6pm), Saturday (9am – 6pm), Sunday (9am – 5pm)
Where: 17 Lonehill Blvd, Lone Hill, Sandton
Book: Webtickets
A celebration of fandom, fun and fantasy that unites gamers and geeks of all ages.
MiFitness Fit Fest Race
Get your heart racing at the MiFitness Fit Fest, a first-of-its-kind fitness race and all-day party at Avianto Estate. Competitors can enter solo or in teams, taking on a challenging course that includes running, rowing, wheelbarrow pushes and wall balls.
Cost: From R500pp (Participants) | R100pp (Spectators)
When: Saturday, 11 October from 7am to 10pm
Where: Syringa Park, Avianto Estate, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
Book: Quicket
With sets from DJ Fresh, Lady Lea, Pablo, and Apple Gule, the event promises high-energy fitness and festival vibes rolled into one.
The Field Market
Slow things down at the Field Market in Parkmore, where Joburg families gather for a day of outdoor shopping, street food, live music and good company. The market is pet-friendly and perfect for lazy Saturday mornings under the trees.
Cost: Free
When: Saturday, 11 October from 9am to 3pm
Where: Field & Study Park, 11 Louise Ave, Parkmore
Expect handmade crafts, deli goods and plenty of space to let the kids (and dogs) roam.
Ben Vino Wine Festival
Wine lovers can toast to the weekend at the Ben Vino Wine Festival, hosted at Emperors Palace. Sample premium wines, savour gourmet platters, shop wine-themed merchandise and enjoy live entertainment from Les and Bryan of Rewind.
Cost: From R275pp | VIP for Two: R1150 | Harvest Platter: R375 (feeds three)
When: Saturday, 11 October from 10am to 5pm
Where: Red Roman Shed, Emperors Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park
Book: Ticketpro
With safe parking, kids’ activities and plenty of seating, this festival is designed for easy-going indulgence.
Soke: Celebrate Africa
End your weekend on a high note at Soke: Celebrate Africa, a day party dedicated to African music, food and fashion. Guests are encouraged to wear something inspired by the continent’s diverse cultures and enjoy a full day of rhythmic beats and good company.
Cost: From R100pp (General) | From R3000 (VIP Table Packages)
When: Sunday, 12 October from 1pm to 10pm
Where: Maracana, 58 Wierda Rd E, Wierda Valley, Sandton
Book: Quicket
Soke promises a vibrant fusion of culture and connection — the perfect finale to a proudly African weekend.
Joburg in Full Colour
From stadium anthems and jacaranda art to design pop-ups, wine festivals and digital innovation, Joburg is buzzing with experiences that celebrate its creative heartbeat. However you spend your weekend, make it one to remember — this city always delivers.
Image Source: Big Events on Instagram
