The Youth Day long weekend is here, and Johannesburg is packed with things to do. Whether you're planning a family outing, a date night, some exercise, or simply looking for something different, there is plenty happening across the city.

Theatre: The Rocky Horror Show

If you're looking for an entertaining night out, The Rocky Horror Show is now on at the Pieter Toerien Theatre at Montecasino. Craig Urbani returns as Dr Frank-N-Furter in this iconic musical packed with humour, memorable songs, and spectacular costumes.

Perfect for: Couples, friends, and theatre lovers

Tickets: R200 to R495

Venue:
Pieter Toerien Theatre
Montecasino
1 Montecasino Boulevard
Fourways

Bookings: Webtickets or the official Montecasino website.

Music: Candlelight - the Best of Hans Zimmer

Enjoy some of Hans Zimmer's greatest film scores performed by a live string quartet in a candlelit setting at Shepstone Gardens. Music from The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Madagascar promises a memorable winter evening.

Perfect for: Date nights and music lovers

Sessions: Friday at 6:00 pm and 8:15 pm

Tickets: From R600

Venue:
Shepstone Gardens
12 Hope Road
Mountain View
Johannesburg

Bookings: Fever.

Get Creative: Punch Needle Art Workshop

If you'd rather make something than simply watch it, Studio ArtWave is hosting a Punch Needle workshop where participants create their own tote bag while learning a new craft. All materials, drinks, and snacks are included.

Perfect for: Friends, creatives, and beginners

When: Saturday from 9:00am

Cost: R625 to R725

Venue:
Studio ArtWave
44 Stanley Avenue
Milpark
Johannesburg

Bookings: Studio ArtWave.

For Documentary Lovers

This is also the final weekend of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, one of Africa's leading documentary festivals. If you enjoy real stories and thought-provoking cinema, this is an excellent opportunity to catch one of the closing screenings.

Check the official festival programme for screening times and participating venues before attending.

Get Moving: Zoo Trot

Enjoy a scenic 5km run or walk through the Johannesburg Zoo before the city gets busy. The route passes animal enclosures and offers a unique way to start a Sunday morning.

Perfect for: Families, walkers, and runners

When: Sunday at 7:00am

Cost: R78

Venue:
Johannesburg Zoo
Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive
Parkview
Johannesburg

Bookings: Webtickets.

Killarney Country Club parkrun

If you're looking for a free activity, the weekly 5km parkrun welcomes walkers, joggers, and runners of all fitness levels. Registration is required before your first event.

Perfect for: Everyone

When: Saturday at 8:00 am

Cost: Free

Venue:
Killarney Country Club
60 5th Street
Houghton Estate
Johannesburg

Registration: Official parkrun South Africa website.

Football Fever

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has football fans glued to their screens, and many restaurants, pubs, and fan venues across Johannesburg are showing matches throughout the weekend. If you're planning to watch with friends, book ahead where possible, as popular venues are expected to be busy.

Budget Picks

Free

• Killarney Country Club parkrun

Under R100

• Zoo Trot

Under R500

• The Rocky Horror Show (selected tickets)

For a Special Occasion

• Hans Zimmer Candlelight Concert

📍 Quick Planner

Looking for a family outing?
Zoo Trot

Planning a date night?
Hans Zimmer Candlelight Concert

Want a great laugh?
The Rocky Horror Show

Feeling creative?
Punch Needle Workshop

Need a free activity?
Killarney Country Club parkrun

Make the Most of the Weekend

Long weekends don't always require expensive travel or hours on the road. Some of Johannesburg's best experiences are right on our doorstep. Whether you choose theatre, music, exercise, or art, the city offers plenty of opportunities to make the most of the break.

One final tip: because of the Youth Day long weekend, many venues are expected to be busier than usual. Book tickets online where possible and allow extra travel time, particularly around Montecasino and other popular entertainment precincts.