Johannesburg Has Plans This Weekend — Here’s What’s Worth Checking Out

If your weekend plan currently consists of “we’ll see what happens”, Johannesburg has other ideas.

There is plenty happening across the city from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 September, with live music, comedy, parties, theatre and other entertainment options on the calendar.

And honestly, after a long week, sometimes the best self-care is simply getting out of the house.

🎸 For the music lovers

If you’re looking for live music, there is no shortage of options.

One of the weekend’s more nostalgic offerings is OASIS: Don’t Look Back in Anger, taking place at The Bioscope at 44 Stanley on Friday.

For something with a different musical flavour, That ’70s Show brings Wasted Youth Club, The Tazers, Hellcats and Drunk Wizard to Sognage on Friday and Saturday.

There’s also Winehouse at Artistry JHB on Friday evening for fans wanting an Amy Winehouse-inspired musical experience.

Basically, Jozi is giving you very little excuse to sit at home scrolling through TikTok for six hours.

😂 Need a laugh?

If your week has already tested your patience, comedy might be the answer.

Comedian Kurt Schoonraad brings Funny Side Up to The Capital Empire in Sandton on Friday evening. Tickets are listed at R180–R200.

Because sometimes you don’t need a motivational quote.

You need someone on stage making jokes about life.

💃 Party people, your weekend starts now

For those who prefer their weekends with louder music and questionable dance moves, Johannesburg has several options.

TOYTOY takes place at And Club on Friday night, while BollyRave Festival is scheduled at Maracanà in Sandton from Friday into Saturday.

The BollyRave event is particularly interesting for anyone looking for a Bollywood-inspired party atmosphere rather than the usual Friday-night routine.

And if you’re already planning your Saturday, Grxxvy Escape featuring Oscar Mbo is listed for 12 September at The River Cabin.

🎭 Something a little more chilled

Not everyone wants a nightclub.

For something more relaxed, Love, Longing and Broadway takes place at Theatre on the Square in Sandton on Friday afternoon.

The programme features bass-baritone Christiaan Snyman with pianist Anneke Burke, performing music from Broadway, films, swing and other favourites.

Tickets are listed at R60 for members and R100 for general admission.

It’s the kind of outing where you can enjoy some culture without having to shout over a DJ.

🎨 There’s more than just parties

Johannesburg’s weekend calendar also includes workshops, exhibitions, social events and other creative experiences.

Among Friday’s listings is a Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop, while other events include social gatherings and creative activities across the city.

For those who like discovering something different, this is a good reminder that a weekend out doesn’t have to revolve around restaurants, clubs or shopping malls.

Sometimes you can actually make something.

Imagine that. 😂

🌆 Jozi is doing what Jozi does

One of the best things about Johannesburg is the sheer variety of experiences available within the city.

You can start the afternoon with a cultural experience, grab something to eat, watch a performance and finish the night dancing — all without leaving the city.

This weekend’s calendar reflects that variety, with Bollywood-inspired parties, comedy, live music, theatre, workshops and entertainment happening across different parts of Johannesburg.

So whether you’re planning a date, hanging with friends or simply trying to escape your bedroom for a few hours, there is something to put on the calendar.

The Everyday Mzansi weekend challenge

Here’s our challenge:

Don’t spend the entire weekend indoors.

Pick one thing you’ve never tried before.

Go somewhere you’ve never been.

Support a local performer.

Take your friends.

Take pictures.

Make memories.

And, most importantly, don’t forget to tell us how it went. 😎

Johannesburg has plans.

Now it’s your turn.