The Jo'burg Coffee Festival Returns to Fourways This May

If you have ever stood at a café counter wondering why one bag of beans costs twice as much as another, you are not alone. This May, Johannesburg is turning that curiosity into a three day celebration. The Jo’burg Coffee Festival is arriving at the Fourways Mall Rooftop, and it is a complete evolution of what used to be a simple trade show.

 

For the first time, this event feels less like an industry expo and more like a full scale lifestyle festival. It is a place where high end caffeine meets craft beer, live music, and the best patisseries in the city

 

The Specialty Standard

 

Dr. Zameer Brey, founder of the Cape Coffee Club, describes specialty coffee as more than just a trendy label. It is a strict quality standard. To earn the title, a coffee must score at least 80 out of 100 points on a professional scale.

 

These beans are grown in ideal conditions and processed with precision. They are roasted to pull out unique flavours that might remind you of anything from dark chocolate to freshly cut fruit. At the heart of the festival is the Roasters Village, where you can taste these high scoring coffees from the best roasters in South Africa.

 

A Full Sensory Weekend

 

The move to the rooftop at Fourways Mall has allowed the festival to grow. While coffee remains the hero, the experience now reflects the broader energy of the city.

• The Workshops: The African School of Coffee will be there to show you how to turn your home kitchen into a professional setup.

• The Mix: For those who want something other than caffeine, there is a brand new craft beer and wine bar.

• The Gear: You can compare the latest machines and brew tools, from the simple Aeropress to high end home espresso setups.

A Note for Guests

 

• The Dates: Friday, 29 May to Sunday, 31 May 2026.

• The Times: Friday and Saturday from 09h00 to 17h00. Sunday closes slightly earlier at 15h00.

• Tickets: R160 for a day pass or R380 for the full weekend. Children under 12 gain free entry.

• The Extra Touch: VIP passes are available for R320 and include a branded travel mug and free coffee from selected roasters.

The Bottom Line

 

We often treat coffee as a quick fuel stop on the way to work. The Jo’burg Coffee Festival is a chance to pause and realize that coffee is actually a craft and a culture. Whether you are a serious connoisseur or just someone who enjoys a good cup in lovely company, it is the best excuse to spend a weekend on a Joburg rooftop.