The scene is set for a spectacular celebration at these very popular music festivals in Johannesburg. Performed by local and international creatives and talent, these festivals have an awe-inspiring lineup of musical icons and DJs.
There’s a heart-pumping setting for all music lovers, from EDM and trance to jazz, and from hip-hop to the chart-topping tracks performed by the superstars. Come and enjoy a night out with some of the top stars of the music scene and make it a night – or a weekend – to remember.
Grxxvy Escape is a new day-to-night music party by popular DJ and producer Oscar Mbo, bringing South African music fans closer to their favourite artists.
Headlined by none other than Oscar Mbo himself, Grxxvy Escape round two is bringing the sound, the energy and the signature Grxxvy atmosphere to the city of gold.
Attendees can expect sets from one of Africa’s biggest hip-hop stars, Nasty C, who brings his chart-topping anthems and smooth melodic rap to the stage alongside king of Afro-tech Dlala Thukzin, Afro-house powerhouse MORDA, house aficionado C-Blak, Amapiano king Kabza De Small, and the Artwork Sounds duo who bring soulful rhythms and deep grooves. And that’s not all either, as there are a few more artists still to be announced.
With a stellar lineup and drink specials, food vendors, all-day activations, fun experiences and prize giveaways available, guests have all the ingredients for the perfect day out.
Cost: From R500pp (general admission) | R35 000 (for 8 people front row VIP, includes R35 000 bar tab) | R25 000 (for 8 people middle row VIP, includes R25 000 bar tab) | R20 000 (for 8 people back row VIP, includes R20 000 bar tab) | R10 000 (cocktail table for 4 people back row VIP, includes R10 000 bar tab) | Book via Quicket
When: Saturday, 12 September 2026 from 2pm till lateWhere: The River Cabin, 35 R114, Nietgedacht 535-Jq, Fourways
Sunset Music Series returns for 2026. Music-lovers, get ready to experience the magic of music and nature at the incredible Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the garden’s lush landscape, the afternoon offers a unique blend of uplifting melodies, vibrant rhythms, and unforgettable moments, creating a perfect soundtrack beneath the African sky.
The lineup for this edition includes multi-award-winning, multi-platinum-selling South African artist Sjava, 11-piece Afropop group Mango Groove, two of South Africa’s most soulful artists, Ami Faku and Manana and South African female powerhouses Msaki and rising singer Thando Zide.
Cost: From R195pp, book online.
When: From Saturday, 12 September to Saturday, 7 November from 1pm to 5pmWhere: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort
Each year for over two decades now, Lentedag has offered university students the ultimate spring break experience.
Expect a huge lineup of local stars performing across FIVE stages, multiple bars including a 100m main bar, world-class decor, and a whole bunch of games and fun activities at the festival. As always, the bar prices are also student-friendly. This year’s lineup features Shekhinah, Jeremy Loops, Focalistic, Avi Suban, Trancemicsoul, Austin Cassim, Kyle Cassim, and more.
Cost: From R275pp, book via Howler
When: Wednesday, 16 September from 9am to 6:30pmWhere: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria, Pretoria
The SpringFest hosted by St David’s Marist Inanda is a big highlight among music festivals in Johannesburg. This vibrant spring event takes place in a central, secure location with excellent facilities and plenty of parking.
The exciting annual family-friendly event features a slew of local musicians, including Goodluck, DJ Zinhle, Neil Hunter, Saxby Twins and St David’s Marist Inanda Musicians.
Enjoy the Gin, Beer, and Wine Bars, feast at diverse food stalls, and browse a curated market. Little ones will love the fun-packed kiddies’ area, while teens have their own dedicated zone to chill and connect.
It’s a feel-good day of music, food, and community spirit. Save the date and join us for one of the most exciting music festivals in Johannesburg.
Cost: From R170pp to R1450pp, book via Webtickets
When: Saturday, 19 September from 2pmWhere: St David’s Marist Inanda, 36 Rivonia Rd, Sandown, Sandton
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, Africa’s premier jazz festival, features an exciting line-up of headlining jazz stars from across the world.
Over two fun-filled days, across multiple stages, jazz lovers are reintroduced to the music, while novices discover the magic of jazz.
This year’s programme features a mix of international and South African artists across four stages, with Grammy-winning Beninese musician Angélique Kidjo leading the bill for international artists and Kamasi Washington, who makes his Joy of Jazz debut. The South African jazz artists performing at the festival include Thandiswa Mazwai, Judith Sephuma, McCoy Mrubata, Khaya Mahlangu, and Ndabo Zulu.
Cost: R1500 (day pass) | R2250 (weekend pass). Book online
When: Friday, 25 September 2026 from 6.30pm to 12.00am, Saturday, 26 September 2026 from 6.30pm – 12.00amWhere: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandton, Johannesburg
The Luxurious Marble Circus launched with an epic, sold-out show in 2024, and they’re bringing that same energy back in September. This two-day event promises a fine dining set against an elaborate outdoor experience with spectacular theatrics and gorgeous views.
Each area of The Luxurious Marble Circus offers guests a unique experience and a lively luncheon within the different offerings of the Marble Group restaurants. The stage will come to life after dark with live performances to surprise and delight, ranging from circus acts to intimate gigs from award-winning talent, including the Scorpion Kings, hit international electronic producer Lost Frequencies, top South African Afro-house and deep house DJ Shimza, DJ Zinhle, and Sxncello.
Cost: From R990pp, book via Howler
When: Saturday, 26 September and Sunday, 27 September from 12pm to 11pmWhere: Ground the Venue, Plot 19 Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
Prime Fest is an outdoor music festival created by celebrated and award-winning South African rock band Prime Circle. The third edition of the event, in partnership with REAL and Jacaranda FM, features some of South Africa’s most celebrated and awarded performers and promises an incredible musical experience.
The festival was born from a desire to create an event that Prime Circle would want to attend and has evolved into a personal celebration of live music, friendship and relationships built over decades in the industry. While the day features different sounds and generations, they are united by a dedication to exceptional live performances and authentic connections with South African audiences.
Taking place at Syringa Park in Muldersdrift, the lineup includes festival founders Prime Circle, Jeremy Loops, Jesse Clegg, GoodLuck, Lee Cole, Martin Bester & Band, Zaan Sonnekus and more.
Cost: R480pp | R250pp (U12) | R1500pp (VIP) | R1850pp (VVIP. Book via Webtickets.
When: Saturday, 3 October from 11am to 10pmWhere: Syringa Park, Portion 61, Driefontein Farm, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
In The City is a one-day concert hosted by the organisers of the Cape Town Rocking the Daisies festival in Johannesburg, featuring some of the festival’s top headliners.
Following overwhelming demand and the announcement of his headlining slot at Rocking the Daisies in Cape Town, rapper and singer Isaiah Rashad is officially bringing his live show to Gauteng to headline In The City. Known for critically acclaimed projects like Cilvia Demo, The House Is Burning, and his latest album It’s Been Awful, Rashad is set to deliver a show featuring his smooth, jazz-inflected, nostalgic Southern hip-hop style.
Joining Rashad is prominent London-born singer and songwriter Sinéad Harnett. Known for her emotionally raw and soulful sound, including hits like ‘If You Let Me’ and ‘Ready is Always Too Late’. With a sound that blends deep R&B, catchy pop melodies, and electronic beats, audiences can expect a vulnerable and authentic show.
Reflecting the present and curating the future, Steyn Entertainment – the company behind Rocking the Daisies – is committed to developing, supporting and cultivating quality, multi-sensory cultural experiences. In The City gives music lovers in Gauteng an opportunity to get in on the Daisies action themselves.
Cost: From R699pp, book via Quicket.
When: Sunday, 4 October from 12pm to 10pmWhere: Montecasino Outdoor Events Arena, Montecasino Boulevard, Fourway, Johannesburg, Gauteng
The annual Spring Fiesta usually takes place in Ekurhuleni sometime in October. With over a decade in the making, this is one of the most iconic day-and-night music festivals in Johannesburg, offering a celebration of all things local, music, culture and togetherness.
The festival showcases top-tier South African talent with a diverse range of artists and DJs across different music genres. From House, Hip Hop, Piano, and Deep House to AfroTech – all performing live across the 6 themed stages. Attendees had the opportunity to watch performances from six different stages, including the main stage, hip-hop stage, soul candy stage and more.
Cost: R400pp | R700pp – R800pp (VIP) | R1350pp -R1650pp (VVIP) | R10 000pp – R50 000pp (Tables) | R2500pp – R4000pp (Packages). Book via Howler.
When: Saturday, 3 October from 12pm to 1amWhere: Wild Waters Complex, Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, Boksburg
The annual Hennessy Back To The City Festival returns for its 20th edition, featuring local and international artists, including iconic Detroit hip-hop group Slum Village.
Known for their smooth beats and underground style, Slum Village are one of the cornerstones of conscious hip-hop, and their legacy lives on through founding member T3 and acclaimed producer Young RJ. Audiences are set to enjoy their timeless catalogue, with hits like ‘Closer’, ‘Selfish’, and ‘I Don’t Know’.
Back to the City is a unique annual youth event that has grown into the largest public display of both commercial and underground hip hop in Africa, presenting a day of live music, street art, break-dancing, art installation, skateboarding, film, street fashion, gaming, speakers and panel discussions. The festival features 80 stalls, 100 artists, and more.
Cost: R200 – R1000pp (general access) | R1500 – R2500 (VIP) | R10000 – R30000 (VIP Tables). Book via Webtickets.
When: Saturday, 10 October from 12pmWhere: Mary FitzGerald Square, 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Piano Fest is an annual event presenting a full day of Amapiano, energy, culture, and cherishable moments.
From the first beat to the last set, visitors can expect big energy, non-stop vibes, sing-alongs, dancing, and moments that make them glad they came.
The lineup promises to keep energy high, the dance floor moving, and the crowd singing along from start to finish, featuring some of the country’s most talented and celebrated artists. They include global sensation and BET winner Uncle Waffles, AmaPiano Music Awards winner Kabza De Small, Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards winner DJ Maphorisa, Basadi in Music Awards winner Zee Nxumalo, MTV Europe Music Awards winner Focalistic, SAMA winner Young Stunna, South African Amapiano vocalist Thatohatsi, SAMA32 Best Gqom Album Award winners Goldmax and Dankie Boi, and SAMA nominee Calvin Fallo.
Piano Fest promises to be a musical experience where friends can come together, dress up, dance, and talk about it long after the music stops.
Cost: From R450pp, book via Webtickets.
When: Saturday, 10 October from 12pmWhere: 4ways Farmers Market, Taroko Farm Modderfontein Reserve, Norfolk Ln, Klipfontein View, Lethabong
Ramfest’s Halloween edition lands in Pretoria with international headliners alongside South African rock and metal mainstays.
The lineup includes Silverstein, Ruff Majik, Phfat, The Tazers, Doomtrigger, Fuzigish, Human Nebula, Middle Grounds, Your Cynical Sanity, Man as Machine, Walk These Skies, Daisy Arson, Worms, among others. The event builds out a full festival-style production with multiple bars, merch, and food vendors.
Fans can expect hard-hitting sets, professional stage design, and high-output sound. Feel free to come dressed up for Halloween.
Cost: From R350pp to R449pp | R899pp (VIP). Book via Howler.
When: Saturday, 31 October from 1pm to midnightWhere: Heartfelt Arena, 1000 Voortrekker Road, Pretoria Central
KUNYE Festival is an exciting and vibrant music showcase that celebrates Afro-house and electronic music, and one of its standout performers is DJ Shimza.
DJ Shimza brings his high-energy performances, often characterised by his smooth mixes and seamless transitions. His sets are a journey through Afro-tech, deep house, and tribal rhythms, and his ability to connect with the crowd and keep the energy up throughout his performance is a key highlight of the festival.
The November 2026 instalment features a set by DJ Shimza, the mind behind Kunye, along with more incredible acts from across the globe and South Africa.
Shimza is known for making each set feel unique and tailor-made for the moment, creating an unforgettable experience for festivalgoers.
Cost: From R600pp | 1000 – R1250pp (bundle tickets) | R1750 – R2000 (tables). Book via Howler.
When: Saturday, 7 November from 12pm to 10pmWhere: Huddle Park, Club Street, Linksfield, Johannesburg
Multiple award-winning South African DJ, entrepreneur and music producer Oskido returns with the third edition of his music festival, Big Day Out, featuring two stages and promising great music, jovial vibes and more unforgettable moments.
The introduction of a second stage allows for an even bigger lineup, more performances and a wider celebration of South Africa’s diverse musical landscape, spanning kwaito, house, amapiano, hip hop and more. Festivalgoers enjoy a lineup featuring a vibrant fusion of legendary South African artists, including Liquiddeep, BOP (B