Ground The Venue hosts the Ground Cru Winter Edition on July 11 2026. The event features over 20 Cape wines, curated tasting spaces including a whiskey lounge and bubbles boulevard, live music by DJ Abby Nurock, and a kids area. Tickets range from R260 to R480 per person. VIP experiences are available for R1200.

The Firs Antique Fair has moved from Nelson Mandela Square to The Firs in Rosebank. It runs on the first Sunday of every month from 10am to 4pm with free entry. Over 70 collectors offer vintage pieces, preloved designer items, jewellery and contemporary art. The next fair is on Sunday 7 June.

The Maslow Sandton's Lacuna Bistro hosts Plated: A Chef's Table on one Saturday each month. The experience accommodates 30 guests with a five course menu paired with wines. Cost is R650 per person. Upcoming dates include 18 July, 29 August, 26 September, 31 October and 28 November.

The Women in Finance Network presents Irreplaceably Human, a full day conference at Standard Bank Rosebank on Wednesday 22 July. Keynote speakers include Rachel Kolisi, Dr Vumile Msweli, Zanele Njapha and Dr Kirti Ranchod. Tickets are R850 with early bird pricing at R800 for the first 50 bookings.

Bafana Bafana have made history by reaching the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time ever. Thapelo Maseko's winning goal against South Korea secured the historic 1-0 victory. The quarter-final match will take place between 7 and 11 July 2026.

For many South Africans, tax season usually means digging through paperwork, hunting for missing documents, and hoping everything is in order before the deadline arrives.

This year, SARS is continuing its move towards a simpler, more digital filing process that could save millions of taxpayers both time and effort.

The biggest change is the expansion of auto-assessments. SARS expects around six million taxpayers to receive an automatic assessment based on information already submitted by employers, medical schemes, retirement funds, and financial institutions.

For many people, this means there may be no need to complete a full tax return from scratch.

For decades, owning a television in South Africa came with a simple responsibility: paying an annual TV licence fee.

But the world has changed.

Today, many people watch sports, news, movies, and entertainment on smartphones, laptops, tablets, and streaming services. For a growing number of South Africans, the television is no longer the primary screen in the home.

That shift is one of the reasons the government is reviewing how public broadcasting should be funded in the future.

The June school holidays run from 26 June to 20 July. Top activities include the Pop-Up Roller Rink at Greenstone Shopping Centre, Oh Happy Days sports zone at Clearwater Mall, Peter Pan Jr. at Joburg Theatre, and the Joburg Zoo holiday programme. Prices range from R50 to R180.

In Protea Glen, Soweto, 24-year-old Hloni Motaung runs SouthSide Grills, a restaurant built with his late mother's last R10,000. The menu features massive kotas and burgers including The Bazooka, a hollowed-out loaf loaded with chips, meat, sauce, egg, and cheese. This is a story of turning loss into a thriving community restaurant.

TINTANIC – THE SHIP OF MY DREAMS is now open at the Johannesburg Artist Market in Melville. The exhibition by Gino Hart blends art and history with over 40 detailed boards and large scale models. Highlights include the story of the Brown family from Cape Town, smoke effects for atmosphere, and guided tours with the artist for First Class ticket holders. Tickets range from R75 to R250, with children under 5 free. Open Saturdays 10:00 to 16:00 through 25 July 2026.

Tortellino d'Oro has opened a second location at Sandton Gate. The popular Italian restaurant from Oaklands brings its busy deli and excellent pasta, veal, and fillet dishes to a new dining precinct. Signature deli items include melanzane, spinach malfatti, and anchovy pâté. The desserts are a standout.

The Bacchae is a world first choral ballet combining Joburg Ballet dancers, the 80 strong UJ Choir and a live chamber orchestra. Running 3 to 12 July 2026 at Mandela Theatre, this reimagining of Euripides' Greek tragedy explores power, belonging and spirituality through a South African lens. Tickets from R140 to R1000.

Johannesburg locals have a chance to enjoy live classical music in a stunningly intimate way this winter.

The popular Candlelight concert series brings its Timeless Composers performance to the enchanting Shepstone Gardens, where a string quartet will play masterpieces from legends like Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky beneath a canopy of hundreds of candles.

The setting trades grand concert halls for a cozy, candlelit atmosphere, letting each note and gesture resonate on a personal level.

Scheduled for Friday, 3 July 2026 at 18:00, this one-hour event promises iconic pieces such as The Four Seasons and Clair de Lune.

It’s the perfect escape from the winter chill, a sophisticated yet relaxing evening ideal for date nights, celebrations, or anyone craving a memorable, elegant night in one of the city’s most picturesque venues.

South Africa’s new AARTO traffic system is set to expand nationally from 1 July 2026, but motorists won’t see immediate changes to their licences or demerit points just yet.

The phased rollout means drivers in additional municipalities will need to pay closer attention to fines and ensure their driving documents remain current.

The much-talked-about demerit point system is part of a later implementation stage and won’t activate on rollout day.

When the points system does launch, all drivers will start with a clean slate.

Repeat offenders could face license suspensions once they accumulate 15 demerit points, but responsible drivers have little to worry about for now.

The main aim is safer, more accountable roads across the country, encouraging all motorists to keep documents updated and drive responsibly as changes approach.

Staying informed will be key as further AARTO phases roll out.

Saigon Suzy in Fourways delivers more than a meal, it’s a full sensory experience.

The vibrant décor, dramatic lighting, and high-energy vibe set the stage for an inviting night out that appeals to both adventurous and cautious eaters.

Diverse street food-inspired dishes range from authentic Vietnamese pho and bao buns to Korean fried chicken, served across zones like the bustling street market and the colourful Cherry Blossom Garden bar.

Saigon Suzy’s No Tell Motel private karaoke booths seat up to 15 guests, offering a soundproof space to unleash your inner pop star without a crowd, making it a top pick for group celebrations.

With bottomless Sunday specials and DJ-fueled energy, Saigon Suzy has earned its reputation as one of Johannesburg’s most memorable dining destinations north of the city.

The days of setting aside an entire morning for a licence renewal may finally be starting to fade.

For years, renewing a vehicle licence in South Africa often meant long queues, paperwork, and multiple trips to a licensing centre. It was one of those routine tasks motorists simply learned to tolerate. Today, however, a gradual shift toward online services is changing the experience.

Gold Reef City stands on the actual Witwatersrand gold fields that sparked Johannesburg’s birth in the late 1800s.

This popular theme park isn’t a mere re-creation – much of the original mining infrastructure and Victorian-style architecture remains, with preserved mine headgear and real underground shafts infusing the site with authentic history.

Families discover a unique rhythm here, cycling between roller coaster thrills, splashy water rides, gentle junior zones, and shady walkways perfect for a break.

The day’s pace slows during the heritage mine tour, where expert guides lead visitors underground, vividly revealing how Johannesburg was built from gold.

Located in Ormonde, 8-10km south of Johannesburg’s CBD, Gold Reef City is open Tuesday to Sunday, with combo ticket deals and a variety of food outlets available.

It’s a destination designed to keep all ages engaged, where lively fun and powerful history meet for a truly memorable outing.

For generations, the green barcoded ID book has been woven into the fabric of South African life, marking milestones from job applications to marriages and elections.

This iconic document is now approaching retirement as the Department of Home Affairs prepares to phase it out in favor of the more secure Smart ID card.

Officials cite increased risks of fraud and identity theft with the old system, while Smart ID cards offer biometric checks and enhanced protection.

The switch aligns with broader national efforts to modernise identity systems and strengthen the National Population Register.

Although no final cutoff date is set, Smart IDs are quickly becoming the standard, helped by partnerships between Home Affairs and major banks that make applications more accessible nationwide.

The green ID book remains valid for now, but for many, its gradual replacement marks the end of an era in South Africa’s journey toward digital identity.

Mandisi Dyantyis performs his Symphonic Celebration on July 3-4, 2026 at the Teatro, Montecasino. The acclaimed artist brings his distinctive blend of jazz, gospel, and traditional South African sounds with full orchestral backing.

For years, managing social media use has been treated as a private household issue, negotiated between parents, children, and screen time.

That is starting to change internationally.

The United Kingdom has announced plans to restrict social media access for users under the age of 16, with enforcement expected from 2027. The proposed rules would apply to platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, X, and YouTube.

We’ve all had that moment, typing out a WhatsApp or a quick email, and suddenly your brain blanks on a word you’ve known since school. You can hear it perfectly in your head, but your fingers refuse to cooperate.

Parenting has changed dramatically in just one generation. There was a time when protecting children meant watching them play outside, tracking their movements in the neighbourhoods, or reminding them to be home before sunset. The risks were visible and familiar.

Today, children are exactly where parents expect them to be: at home, in their rooms, on the couch, connected through screens. Yet within that safe space, they are also entering a much larger world without clear boundaries.

For more than a decade, e-tolls were one of the most debated issues affecting Gauteng motorists. Long after the system stopped operating, questions remained about unpaid accounts, possible collections, and the future of the scheme.

Cabinet has now approved the write-off of outstanding historical e-toll debt, allowing the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) to close this chapter and no longer pursue the collection of these historical amounts.

For many motorists, the decision provides something that has been missing for years: certainty.

Melville Koppies Heritage Site opens every Sunday from 8am to 11:30am offering self guided 5km and 3km trails. Guided 8km hikes happen on the last Sunday of each month, with storytelling sessions on the second Sunday. Entry costs R100 for adults, R50 for under 18s, free for under 5s. Parking at Marks Park, Judith Road, Emmarentia. Contact: friendsofmelvillekoppies@gmail.com or 072 348 0578.

Two teenagers from south Johannesburg are running Bookaholics, a bookstore at Oriental Plaza in Fordsburg selling self care books, children's books, novels, and puzzles. Habiba Yousuf and Zainab Asif opened the shop to share their love of reading with others. They accept donations and buy books from the community. Contact them at 084 461 7845.

Potholes are a constant frustration for Sandown motorists, often leading to costly tyre damage and creating safety concerns.  

Feeling fed up with neglected roads, local residents banded together to tackle the issue head-on by pooling funds and purchasing tar to repair potholes themselves.  

By sharing costs, neighbours found that fixing both small and large potholes became surprisingly manageable.  

The results of their collaborative effort were recently celebrated during a community walkabout, as repaired streets became a point of local pride.  

This grassroots initiative was inspired by a desire to uplift the neighbourhood through action, not just complaints.  

Across Johannesburg, similar community projects are proving that residents who unite can beautify parks, care for public spaces, and strengthen neighbourhood bonds, complementing, but not replacing, municipal duties.  

Sandown’s example reveals how shared responsibility and teamwork can spark meaningful change, reminding all that even small steps can revive community spirit and improve the places we call home.

First Thursdays at Keyes Art Mile is a monthly event where galleries stay open late, new exhibitions launch, and visitors can explore Johannesburg's vibrant art scene in a welcoming atmosphere.

Truman Matamela's exhibition Echoes of Yesterday runs in Melville until November 26, 2026. The show explores memory, heritage, and how the past shapes our present.

Kerry Chapman, a Lonehill-based author with nearly two decades of experience in children's development, has published I Am Brave, a book designed to help children aged two to six build confidence through affirmations. The book teaches that bravery means moving forward despite fear, not being fearless. Available at www.affirmationstation.co.za.

From museums and botanical gardens to markets and street food, here are twenty ways to enjoy Johannesburg for under R150, proving that exploring the city does not have to be expensive.

Modderfontein Reserve is a 265 hectare park in Johannesburg offering hiking, cycling, fishing, and picnicking. Entry starts at R45 for adults. Open daily 6 AM to 6 PM.

The Thai Table 789 brings authentic Thai sharing plates to Oxford Parks in Rosebank. Tom yum, coconut curries, charred meats, and a contemporary space without cliches.

The winter light fades early but Johannesburg's dance studios are warm. The Yoga Republic in Randburg teaches contemporary. A Braamfontein studio above a takeaway shop offers salsa. Earth Yoga Studio in Greenside focuses on African dance. Drop-in classes cost R80 to R150. Monthly memberships average R600 to R900.

The Valdo Prosecco High Tea runs at Montecasino Fourways until December 31, 2026. Enjoy refined pastries and savory bites paired with Italian sparkling wine.

Calisto's Date Night Dinner runs at Montecasino Fourways until September 30, 2026. Enjoy Portuguese-inspired cuisine in an intimate setting perfect for couples.

Salt x Ceremony is a roving dinner series that partners with buildings across Johannesburg to create one-time rooftop dining experiences. Food by LadyDay Food, locations revealed to ticket holders only.

A guide to the best dance venues in Johannesburg, from underground techno clubs in Newtown to luxe spots in Sandton and daytime dancing in Brixton.

Experiential tours that take you beyond the tourist traps into the real Joburg, from street art safaris to fashion design workshops.

The Wits Standard Bank Piano Festival runs from 8 to 10 May 2026 at the Chris Seabrooke Music Hall. Eight pianists including Thandi Ntuli, Bokani Dyer, and Hilton Schilder perform across four double bill concerts celebrating South Africa's rich piano traditions.

Running clubs across Joburg are transforming fitness into a social activity. Benchwarmers Runners Club in Rosebank offers Wednesday evening runs with free beer after. Braamfie Runners meets Saturday mornings in Braamfontein. And ParkRun operates free weekly 5km events across multiple parks.

Melvilles nightlife is back. Ratz relaunched in August 2025, Great Dane moved from Braamfontein, and Good Omens opened in February 2026. The revival is driven by creative community initiatives like The Happening and Melville Art Mile. Safety has improved with CPF patrollers. Best nights are Wednesdays for soulful house and Saturdays for the full strip experience.

Melville Koppies Nature Reserve offers guided Sunday hikes through indigenous grassland and rocky outcrops, with archaeological remains from the Stone Age and Iron Age. Choose between a 4km walk or a challenging 10km hike with city views.

Johannesburg walking tours with Past Experiences, Curiocity, Dlala Nje, and Johannesburg Heritage Foundation offer safe, guided ways to explore the CBD, Maboneng, Ponte, Hillbrow, and heritage architecture. Advance booking required.

The Delicious Festival has confirmed its 2026 return over Heritage Weekend, 19 and 20 September, at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. DStv has ended its sponsorship but the show goes on with a two day lineup focused on soul, funk and groove.

A R750 million conference centre and hotel development has been announced for the Waterfall precinct next to Mall of Africa. Opening in 2028, it will hold up to 2,000 delegates across 16 event spaces, with a 180 room hotel, restaurant, spa and gym.