Poelano Malema

From live music under city lights to art fairs, food markets, theatre, and cultural festivals – Johannesburg is alive with events that celebrate its creativity, diversity, and unstoppable energy. Whether you’re into jazz at sunset, rooftop parties, cutting-edge exhibitions, or family-friendly weekend plans, our curated guide brings you the best of what’s happening in the City of Gold. Stay plugged in and never miss a moment.RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Millions of people around the world take part in Veganuary, a global challenge that encourages individuals to follow a fully plant-based diet throughout January. The movement appeals to many for a variety of reasons, with health being one of the main drivers. Vegan diets often encourage people to eat more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole foods, while reducing their intake of processed foods.  According to Healthline, a well-balanced vegan diet can aid in weight management, particularly when meals are eaten in moderation and combined with regular exercise. The publication also notes that a plant-based diet may lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes, improve kidney function, and help regulate blood sugar levels.  However, consulting a healthcare practitioner before making any major dietary changes is always advisable.  As veganism continues to grow, restaurants across the world are expanding their plant-based offerings. Johannesburg, in particular, boasts several eateries that cater exclusively to vegans.   RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Who doesn’t love a great deal, especially when it involves good food and great company? Two-for-one meal specials have long been a favourite on the Joburg dining scene, giving us the perfect excuse to head out for a delicious bite without breaking the bank. So, if you’re craving a meal out but keeping an eye on your budget, don’t worry, we’ve got you. These buy-one-get-one-free or two-for-one specials make dining out feel like a proper treat (without the splurge). If you feel we've missed anything, please pop over to our social pages and let us know - Facebook. Let's share the good deals with everyone! NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up-to-date as possible. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook!    

Nkululeko Khanyi is a man who wears many hats. The Mzansi events guru, as he calls himself, is a proud Joburger, although he originally hails from Pongola in northern Zululand. He says his love for Johannesburg is rooted in its fast-paced lifestyle.  “What I love about the City of Gold is the lifestyle,” says Khanyi. “You need to be quick in everything you do. You cannot be lazy in this city. I sleep very little and work a lot because life here is expensive and requires hardworking people. With just one salary, it’s difficult to survive. "I have been travelling internationally in Europe. I enjoy meeting new people and understanding their cultures, but I can't stay overseas. I love South Africa - its ubuntu and our cultures." He also appreciates Johannesburg’s climate, adding, “The weather in Johannesburg is the best.”  The anti-suicide awareness advocate shares some of his hidden gems around the city. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

For over two decades, Ntokozo Mbambo has been one of Africa’s most celebrated and sought-after voices. Her healing and soulful sound has brought hope to millions, uniting music lovers from all walks of life. From singing for presidents to performing the National Anthem at the 2024 Springbok rugby match, Ntokozo continues to shine brightly as one of South Africa’s most inspiring artists. Her music has taken her across the world — performing in countries such as Nigeria and beyond — and earning her numerous accolades along the way. She has also collaborated with top African musicians and shared stages with Grammy Award-winning artists like CeCe Winans, cementing her place among gospel’s finest. Originally from Durban, Ntokozo now calls Johannesburg home. She says one of the things she loves most about the city is its vibrant, fast-paced energy. “So, I come from a coastal area. Down there, people are very relaxed — very chilled. I don’t know whether it’s the sea breeze,” she laughs. “But what I love about Jo’burg is that it’s fast-paced. Oh, and I also love that there’s not much traffic during Christmas — because everybody’s gone home!” Another thing that stands out for her is the city’s diverse culinary scene. “I love food, okay? I love eating,” she admits with a smile. “My husband and I always try to find new restaurants to experience something different. That’s why it’s hard to choose a favourite restaurant — there are just so many gems around the city to discover.” Join her

Rounding up a large group for a weekend can be a recipe for chaos, especially if multiple generations are involved. Someone’s kid needs their own room, someone wants to braai while your Uncle wants to make a three-course dinner, and there never seems to be enough showers! Then you need enough places to sit and chill, socialise, eat dinner together, and still have space to retreat from the madness for half an hour.  The trick isn’t just finding a place that’s big enough, but also one that is actually set up for groups. Within a few hours of Johannesburg, you’ll find lodges, farmhouses and hideaways built for exactly this. We’re talking proper kitchens, long tables, outdoor fire pits, and views that keep everyone happy. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! 

New year, new goals! It's that time of the year when many people commit to detoxing or starting a healthier diet. Among the top New Year's resolutions is living a healthy lifestyle and making better food choices.  Whether you are detoxing, dieting or simply trying to eat cleaner, these spots have you covered.  RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

When the school bell rings for the last time, and the familiar “I’m bored” soundtrack kicks in, Johannesburg shifts gears. Suddenly, the city becomes one big playground, packed with ways to keep kids busy and parents one step ahead of holiday cabin fever. Whether you’re navigating a crisp winter break or a long, sun-soaked summer holiday, Jozi offers far more than defaulting to the nearest mall. From adrenaline-fuelled favourites like Gold Reef City and Acrobranch’s treetop zip lines to crowd-pleasers such as the Museum of Illusions, there’s no shortage of ways to burn off excess energy. Prefer something slower? The city’s green escapes, including the Johannesburg Zoo and the Botanical Gardens, are ideal for relaxed days out and easy family picnics. We’ve rounded up the best things to do with kids across Johannesburg, from budget-friendly outdoor adventures to immersive indoor experiences that will keep the whole family entertained right up until the new term starts. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook!

Celebrate this festive season like a true Durbanite by exploring some of the city's most exciting Christmas markets. Blending holiday magic with Durban's signature warmth, these markets are the pefect way to get into the Christmas spirit while supporting local vendors.   With stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, seasonal foods, and drinks, there is a lot to discover and enjoy. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS:😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

The school holidays are officially here in South Africa, and the countdown to Christmas is well underway. If you’re in Johannesburg with kids to keep entertained, the city is full of festive fun, magical experiences, and adventures for little ones. From Santa meet-and-greets and craft stations to mini golf and sweet treats, here are our top picks for the best Christmas activities to enjoy with kids this holiday season. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Ke summer, boss! That means more time in the sun, more time to unwind, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy good vibes, fantastic food, and refreshing drinks. Whether you are planning to catch up with friends, have solo food adventures, or go on family outings, Joburg's restaurants are stepping up with irresistible specials designed to make this season unforgattable. Here are the Joburg eateries that dish up the most exciting meals at wallet-friendly prices this season. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Eating out this Christmas means no long hours in the kitchen - just good food and great company. It’s the perfect way to relax, connect with family, and soak up the holiday vibes. With Christmas just around the corner, restaurants across Johannesburg are already rolling out their festive specials. Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering feasts, festive flavours, and unforgettable dining experiences across the city. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Time Out Says Just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg, Vaal Villa is an ideal getaway destination for large groups looking to relax, reconnect and create lasting memories. At the beginning of every year, my family makes it a tradition to set the tone for the year ahead by going on vacation together, prioritising bonding time and shared experiences. This January, we chose Vaal Villa in Vanderbijlpark, which offers seven bedrooms and five bathrooms. With a group of 11 adults and four children, I was slightly anxious about whether the property would truly cater to all our needs. From the moment we arrived, those concerns quickly disappeared. Why stay at Vaal Villa?   Large wooden gates secure the property and feature a striking, castle-like architectural design. While the exterior wall near the gate may not immediately impress and almost feels intentionally rustic or vintage, the inside of the property is nothing short of breathtaking. Once inside, you’re welcomed by well-maintained green lawns and neatly trimmed trees, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. The gate entrance itself gives off an “old-money” aesthetic, which we absolutely loved. Stepping into the villa is an experience on its own. The interiors are elegant and stylish, blending luxury with a vintage farmhouse feel. The high ceilings and beautifully decorated entrance make for a perfect photo spot. The property has two storeys, with the ground floor featuring two large, fully equipped kitchens fitted with moder

Johannesburg boasts an impressive culinary scene, with award-winning restaurants and dining experiences that cater to every type of food enthusiast. Among these standout eateries is Mad Nomad, a restaurant that truly deserves the spotlight - not only for its exceptional food, but also for its warm service, prime location, inviting ambience, and unmistakable vibe. The Vibe  On 31 December, I was looking for a dining experience that would meaningfully close out 2025 and usher in the new year with beautiful memories. I also wanted to celebrate my birthday, making the occasion even more special. My search led me to Mall of Africa, one of the largest malls on the continent and a hub for diverse dining options. As I walked through the mall, Mad Nomad immediately caught my attention. Its exterior décor was elegant and inviting, quietly calling you in - and I’m glad I listened. From the moment I entered, I was blown away by the stunning interior and warmly welcomed by the friendly staff. Despite it being New Year’s Eve, the atmosphere was calm, peaceful, and enjoyable. Service was prompt, professional, and warm throughout. The Food  The menu was refreshingly easy to navigate and not overwhelming, which I loved. It offered a beautiful selection of Turkish-inspired dishes, including lskender kebab, salads, and soups. The eatery also serves African cuisine such as sheep head and pap. My family and I opted for the meat platter, which featured lamb, chicken, Adana kebab, fillet cubes, chi

When I first stepped into The Maslow Time Square, I was utterly blown away by the interior décor. I couldn’t believe such a stunning hotel was tucked away in Pretoria. It made me reflect on all the times I travelled out of the province searching for luxury hotels, while something this exquisite was only 30km from home. Calling it “beautiful” almost feels like an understatement – modern, elegant, and effortlessly stylish. I arrived quite late in the evening (after 9pm), but the check-in process was seamless. Even before reaching reception, I was left impressed - as soon as I drove into the parking lot, the security guard already had my details from the booking, so there was no need to produce documents or dig through my luggage. At reception, I was warmly welcomed with a smile, and despite my late arrival, the staff made me feel completely at ease. The hotel itself is vast, and its scale alone impressed me. Another plus is its accessibility - even by public transport. Why stay at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? This hotel offers more than just luxury – it provides peace of mind and a homely feel. It provides a calm and relaxing environment. It is beautifully designed and boasts breathtaking city views. The service throughout my stay was excellent, with staff genuinely committed to making guests comfortable. It is also the ideal place to meet up with business associates or spoil yourself with a break. What are the rooms like at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? I slept in the median

Prison Break Market in Johannesburg is not only beautiful, but it has a huge variety of services including crafter stalls, restaurants, and crockery painting. It also boasts sprawling lawns and landscapes, making it the perfect spot to take beautiful photos for Instagram. What to expect during your visit: The market features nine sheds that accommodate a wide variety of products and services available at the market, including: Harvest Pantry Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread from the onsite bakery. Pick up farm-fresh produce, seasonal fruits and authentic dairy products. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm The Yard Eatery A vibrant spot serving up everything from sweet indulgences to savoury meals. Ideal for a casual bite or a relaxed dining experience. • Thursday to Sunday: 10 am to 9 pm Crafters Shed Browse a wide array of arts and crafts, or take part in interactive workshops ranging from woodworking to jewellery making. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 4 pm Create Lonehill Let your imagination run wild at this ceramic painting shed – fun for all ages and perfect for a creative day out. • Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm Pourhouse Quench your thirst with a selection of craft beers, fine wines and artisan spirits in a relaxed setting. • Wednesday: 11 am to 7 pm • Thursday to Saturday: 11 am to 9 am Good to know: • Entry to the market is free. • The market is completely cashless.

Riversands Farm Village is a sought-after market in Johannesburg, providing locals with fresh produce and great entertainment.  It is environmentally friendly and an ideal place to go with your friends or family.  What to expect during your visit: Riversands Farm Village is a vibrant destination known for its organic food and lively weekend atmosphere, attracting over 850 visitors every weekend. At the heart of the village is its bustling market – a hub for fresh, preservative-free produce supplied directly by local farmers. The market also offers a variety of artisanal stalls, craft bars, and food vendors, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed and flavorful outing. The venue is dog-friendly – welcoming around 400 furry friends each weekend – and fully wheelchair-accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. Health-conscious visitors can enjoy the scenic trails ideal for hiking or mountain biking, while those looking to unwind can sip on a glass of craft beer or wine at one of the many bar stalls. Families are especially welcome. The market features a dedicated kids’ play area with fun games, as well as exciting activities for all ages including a water park, treetop adventures, a zip-line, and paintball. To top it all off, live music from local artists adds to the festive atmosphere, creating the perfect soundtrack for a day of shopping, eating, and exploring. Operating hours: • Saturday: 8:30 am to 4 pm • Sunday: 8:30 am to 5 pm Price: • Entry is free

The Johannesburg City Library, situated in the city's central business district, houses millions of books, audiovisual materials, and offers engaging services such as literacy classes and storytelling sessions. What to expect during your visit: The library boasts a collection of over 1.5 million books and serves more than 250,000 members.   The premises also house several specialist libraries, including the Central Reference Library, Children’s Library, Michaelis Art Library, Multimedia Library, Music Library, Harold Strange Library of African Studies, and the Newspaper Reading Room. Good to know: To use the library, you must present your identity document and proof of residence upon entrance. You can also take out a membership card, which allows you to borrow four books or fewer for free.

Enjoy a unique drive-through movie experience on Father's Day. Enjoy an unforgettable day filled with laughter, stars, classics, and quality time with the special man in your life. Watch action on camera while indulging in delicious food, snacks, and beverages.  The event is held at the livery stable, Inanda Country Base, in Kyalami.  It starts with Finding Nemo film followed by Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back at20:30.  The following day, Saturday, features two movies - Sing and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.   

Located in the heart of downtown Johannesburg, Bridge Books is more than just a place to find your next great read. Whether you're looking to explore new stories, host an event, or even publish your own writing, Bridge Books offers a welcoming space for readers and writers alike. What to expect during your visit: Bridge Books hosts events including book launches, Silent Reading Clubs, and live readings. It's also a family-friendly space, with dedicated areas for children to enjoy storytelling sessions and educational games. The store features a diverse and thoughtfully curated collection of books, ranging from contemporary fiction to titles in African languages, celebrating local voices and global perspectives. Operating hours: • Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm • Sunday: closed 

Join award-winning actor, director and children’s author Upile uThixo Bongco at Bridge Books as she reads and tells the story of a young boy with two dads. Her book, Big Shoes to Fill, is the basis for the storytelling event.  The book talks about the enormous amount of love the young man receives from his fathers.  The books are translated into isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Afrikaans.  It will be a storytelling event featuring fun activities for the kids, including building their treasure box.  Upile will be joined by multi-talented artist Donovan Yaards.  The book is currently selling for R185 and can be purchased here. Bridge Books The venue, Bridge Books, is a bookstore with hundreds of books in different languages and is based in downtown Johannesburg. So after the event, feel free to explore Johannesburg. Here are the 27 best things to do in Johannesburg.   

It is often said, 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach'.  Spoil dad with a tasty meal from Le Bon Goût café in Olifantsfontein. The Father's Day event features a live perfomance from a surprise guest artist.  What's on the plate?  - Welcome drink -  Bread, butter and jam- Main meal ( Potatoes, onions and mushrooms, lamb and chicken roast)  - Dessert (Malva pudding and custard).  The meal costs R380 per person and under 13s pay R150.     

Carnival City and Entertainment World is hosting a great Father's Day lunch event this Sunday.  Dads will be pampered with delicious food, gifts and a welcoming drink. What's cool about the event is that children are welcome, ensuring that dad doesn't have to spend the day alone. Children aged 4-12 pay only R200 per meal.  Carnival City and Entertainment World is loved for its vibrancy. The entertainment venue has stunning interio, ideal for taking Instagram worthy photos with dad.  The venue also has varied selection of eateries which sell traditional to international dishes.  You can also seal the night with a movie at one of the cinemas on the premises.   

Golf is one of the popular sports for men, so why not show dad how special he is by taking him to the World of Golf ? Whether he is a good golfer or a beginner, he is in for a great time.  The venue is hosting a variety of activities planned to ensure dad has the best day of his life.  Apart from golf, dad will be spoiled with delicious lunch. The venue is hosting a braai.  There will also live entertainment and live music, alongside other surprises.  

Having a driver’s licence is important, especially when you live in a city like Johannesburg. There is so much to explore and discover, and having your own licence offers the freedom to move around independently. That small card can be the first step towards uncovering some of Johannesburg’s hidden gems, even in areas with poor public transport.  However, obtaining a driver’s licence also means understanding road signs and recognising the importance of road safety. With Johannesburg being home to millions of people, drivers must pay close attention to their driving behaviour, particularly given the high traffic volumes on the city’s roads. Driving responsibly comes with many benefits. One of the most important is avoiding unnecessary crashes, often caused by reckless driving. Reckless driving can lead to serious injuries, damage to vehicles, and, in some cases, loss of life. This is why responsible driving is so essential. Good driving habits also benefit your vehicle and your finances. Driving responsibly can help reduce fuel consumption and lower maintenance costs. In addition, maintaining a good driving record can result in lower insurance premiums, which is especially valuable in times when every cent counts. Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO)'s Demerit System One of the major benefits of responsible driving is avoiding penalties imposed by the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO). Under this system, drivers start with zer

The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has shared an update on the development of the Rea Vaya bus lanes in the Gandhi Square Precinct. Over the weekend, the agency posted images on social media showing the steel structure of the new Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) station now standing on site. The visible progress marks a key milestone in the project’s development. “The future of public transport is beginning to take shape in the Gandhi Square Precinct. The steel structure of the new Rea Vaya BRT station is now clearly visible on site - a key milestone that signals momentum on the ground. #JoburgReimagined,” JDA wrote on X. Currently, residents have access to various public transport options, including taxis, Metrobus, and Gautrain buses, all available at the public square in Johannesburg's Central Business District (CBD).  The Rea Vaya BRT project was launched in Johannesburg with the first phase, Phase 1A, on August 30, 2009. The transport system was established to provide residents of Soweto and the inner city with an accessible, reliable and affordable public transportation option. The network was later extended to Alexandra and Sandton under Phase 1C. In November 2024, JDA announced that construction progress on the Gandhi Square Precinct stations had reached 42%. The station is located on the corner of Commissioner and Albertina Sisulu streets, between Rissik and Joubert streets. "Transport is a vital backbone of Johannesburg's growth. By linking residents to econo

“Johannesburg is just an amazing city,” says Thato Vincent Maleka, a proud Joburger and passionate tour guide who has dedicated much of his life to exploring and sharing the city’s hidden gems. Born and raised in Johannesburg, Thato has lived in and experienced various parts of the city, giving him a deep appreciation for its diversity and character. From a young age, he made it his mission to discover some of the best spots that Joburg has to offer, many of them hidden in plain sight. A true creative at heart, Thato wears many hats. He is a model, has featured as an extra in local television productions, worked in the commercial space, and served as a tour guide for the Underground Booksellers Walking Tour, a three hour tour which explores some of the best bookstores in the city. He says it was through guiding others that his love for the city grew even deeper. “Working as a tour guide has taught me a lot,” he says. Through his work, Thato has helped both locals and tourists understand why Johannesburg remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after tourist destinations. According to Thato, Joburg caters to everyone’s tastes. “If you want traditional meals, if you want a steak, chicken, the best coffee, the greatest bar or a sports centre - it’s all here,” he explains. Over the years, he has taken pride in introducing people to the many hidden gems scattered across the city. Having lived in different parts of the city and being exposed to neighbourhoods such as Maboneng, Bra

Internationally acclaimed plant-based chef Sunni Speaks has officially landed in South Africa, bringing with her one of her most talked-about creations, vegan oxtail, and it’s already causing quite a stir. The chef has taken over the kitchen at The Vegan Chef in Sandton, where she will be serving her signature dish to locals until Sunday, 18 January. Time Out Johannesburg was among the first on the scene when the restaurant opened its doors to experience what all the hype has been about.  From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was no ordinary dining experience. We were warmly welcomed by Chef Sue Gajathar, founder of The Vegan Chef, whose passion for plant-based cuisine is evident throughout the restaurant. Moments later, Chef Sunni herself walked in, her radiant smile instantly lighting up the space and setting the tone for what was to come.  Time OutChefs Sue and Sunni at The Vegan Restaurant in Sandton Soon after, the waitress arrived with the much-anticipated vegan oxtail. My very first thought was: “This really looks like oxtail.” As a loyal meat eater, I approached the dish with curiosity and an open mind, but nothing could have prepared me for the taste.  From the very first bite, I was completely sold. The vegan oxtail was tender, rich, and deeply flavourful, with a surprisingly meaty texture that made it easy to forget that no animal products were involved. It was one of those rare moments where food truly challenges your expectations. The question tha

Johannesburg, get ready! The one and only Atif Aslam is heading to the city, bringing his undeniable charm, soulful vocals and chart-topping hits to local fans for what promises to be an unforgettable night. The internationally acclaimed Pakistani playback singer and songwriter is no stranger to South Africa. Atif Aslam previously performed to reportedly sold-out crowds in the country in 2023, cementing his strong fan base and popularity among local music lovers. The Dil Diyan Gallan hitmaker will officially usher in the month of love with a live performance at Emperors Palace. The highly anticipated show is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 7 February, at Centre Court, offering fans the perfect concert experience for the season of love. Tickets start from R450 to R5000.  The event is presented by Blueberry Travel South Africa, known for bringing Bollywood entertainment to Africa. Atif Aslam began his music career as a member of the Pakistani band Jal, before embarking on a solo career and rising to international stardom. Over the years, he has become one of the most celebrated voices in Indian and Pakistani music, delivering numerous hit songs for films and albums across borders. The playback singer and actor has received multiple awards throughout his career, earning recognition for his voice, performances and lasting impact on the music industry.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by BBT Johannesburg (@blueberrytravel.johannesburg) RE

It’s that time of the year when many people include healthy living in their New Year’s resolutions. After indulging during the festive season, most of us are eager to shed the extra weight and feel good again. Looking good comes with many benefits. It boosts brain function, helps you stay in shape, and improves confidence. It also saves you the stress of buying a whole new wardrobe because you can comfortably fit into your old clothes. Additionally, regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on your skin and overall well-being. Every year around this time, gym sign-ups skyrocket, and for good reason. Here are several reasons why signing up for a gym is a great idea: Firstly, paying for a gym membership creates a sense of commitment. Whether it’s a monthly or annual fee, knowing that you’ve invested your money can motivate you to show up and stay consistent so you don’t waste what you’ve paid for. Secondly, the gym allows you to become part of a fitness community. It’s a space where you meet people who are equally passionate about exercise, which can be inspiring and encouraging, especially on days when motivation is low. Thirdly, the gym promotes accountability. Being in a structured environment makes it easier to track your progress, stick to routines, and take responsibility for your fitness goals. Fourth, gyms expose you to a variety of exercises and techniques that you may not have tried or known about at home. From strength training to functional workouts, th

Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), which manages over 20,000 hectares of green open spaces across the city, has announced maintenance on some of its properties.  JCPZ is responsible for several key public spaces, including flagship parks, conservation areas, the Johannesburg Botanical Garden, 134 conservation sites, 38 cemeteries, three crematoria, and the Joburg Zoo.  According to the statement, the maintenance programme comes after the seasonal backlogs caused by heavy and persistent rainfall. During November and December, Johannesburg experienced persistent rain and flooding in certain parts of the city, resulting in damage to public green spaces.   According to the site, since October 2025, JCPZ emergency response teams have attended to over 420 fallen trees during peak storm periods.   In addition to repair work, JCPZ remain committed to urban greening initiatives. The city has been engaged in several projects aimed at improving air quality and promoting the well-being of its residents. These efforts include routine services such as grass cutting, tree pruning and general park maintenance across the city. Residents are encouraged to visit the JCPZ website to view area-specific maintenance schedules, particularly if they plan to see some of the attractions.  “We understand the importance of green spaces to daily life in Johannesburg and remain committed to keeping them healthy and accessible," said JCPZ Managing Director Thanduxolo Mendrew in a statement posted on th

One of Johannesburg’s finest restaurants is welcoming the new year with a bang.  Tempo Luxury Restaurant, located in Sunninghill, has announced that it will be launching an exciting new menu this year, promising diners a refreshed and elevated culinary experience.  “This isn’t an update. It’s an upgrade. New menu coming soon!” the restaurant announced on Instagram, alongside a visually captivating video showcasing a selection of its mouth-watering dishes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tempo Luxury Restaurant (@tempo.luxury) Tempo Luxury Restaurant is renowned for creating outstanding dishes that blend bold flavours, premium ingredients, and artistic presentation. The restaurant has built a strong reputation for delivering not only exceptional food but also a luxurious dining experience that combines fine cuisine, entertainment, and an elegant atmosphere.  Over the years, Tempo has consistently raised the bar in Johannesburg’s competitive food scene, attracting food lovers. Its commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Last year, the restaurant received significant recognition at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2025, taking home three prestigious awards:  Global Winner - Best South African Cuisine Best Luxury Unique Experience (Africa) Best Luxury Entertainment Restaurant (Africa).  With its award-winning reputation and the promise of a new and improved menu, Tempo Luxury Restaurant is set to make 2026 an exciting year for diners

Government schools in Johannesburg will officially open on Wednesday, 14 January. Thousands of learners across the city rely on scholar transport to get to and from school.  However, over the years, numerous incidents have been reported involving learners in road accidents linked to negligence and unsafe transportation practices for scholars.  This year, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) has issued a stern warning to scholar transport operators, urging parents and caregivers to ensure that they only enrol their children in safe and compliant transport services.  "Scholar transport safety starts with you," the department stated in a Facebook announcement. Parents were urged not to assume that transport is safe, but to check whether vehicles are roadworthy. Unroadworthy cars pose a serious risk to drivers, passengers and other road users.  Scholar transport drivers are required to hold a valid Public Drivers' Permit (PDP), which is a mandatory requirement in South Africa for anyone operating public transport.  Overloading remains one of the significant challenges facing scholar transport nationwide. The department has requested that parents ensure their children are not transported in overloaded vehicles and that all cars have adequate seating and functioning seatbelts. Effective January 2026, South Africa's updated seatbelt law requires all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts while a vehicle is in motion. Failure to comply will result in a fine. Scholar

China Malls, also known as China Towns, are popular in Johannesburg. These are large wholesale and retail centres, often run by Chinese entrepreneurs, that sell a wide range of goods at competitive prices. While shopping at China Malls can be cost-effective, it helps to be prepared. Here are some useful tips to make the most of your shopping experience.  Shop around Many China Mall stores sell similar goods but at different prices. Shops located closer to entrances often charge more than those further inside. Take time to browse and compare prices before making a purchase.  Master the art of negotiating Some items may not be clearly priced, requiring you to ask the seller. In certain cases, prices may be quoted higher initially, but many sellers are open to negotiation. Even mentioning that you have limited cash can sometimes lead to a better deal, as long as your offer is reasonable.  Carry cash Depending on what you are buying, some stores do not accept card payments. Others may charge an additional fee for card swipes, so carrying cash is often the best option.  Check each item before purchasing A quality check is essential. Always remove items from their packaging and inspect them thoroughly before paying. If you are buying tailor-made items such as curtains, ensure that all measurements are accurate before completing your purchase.  Understand the return policy Most stores do not offer cash refunds. In many cases, you may only be allowed to exchange items within seven da

January is the perfect time to refocus on health and wellness. Healthy living comes with many benefits, including improved heart health, a mental boost, increased confidence, and overall wellbeing. It has also been proven to help prevent certain chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Regular exercise and staying fit can increase energy levels and help you perform at your best in everyday life. In a city as vibrant and active as Johannesburg, there are countless ways to get your fitness journey started or take it to the next level. Whether you already live a healthy lifestyle and are looking for ways to improve it, or you’ve been feeling a little lazy and want to start prioritising your fitness, here are some tips for getting your fitness game on. Get the right gear Johannesburg boasts world-class shopping centres and malls where you can find quality workout clothing and accessories. Wearing the right gear can enhance performance, improve safety, provide comfort, and help regulate body temperature during exercise.  Use your surroundings Joburgers take their fitness seriously - just walk or drive around the suburbs and inner city, and you’ll see many people jogging or running as part of their daily routine. Take advantage of the beautiful streets and neighbourhoods by going for a walk or run in your own area.  Join local fitness initiatives Community fitness events such as Parkrun, which takes place every Saturday at Carnival City, th

Germiston residents have a new reason to celebrate, as the international pizza brand Pizza Hut has officially opened a new branch at Lambton Gardens, located on the corner of Webber Road and Doak Street.  The restaurant announced the opening on its social media platforms earlier this week, generating excitement among local pizza lovers.  Nthabiseng Nyawuza, an employee at the Germiston branch, says opening in the area is an exciting move for the popular pizzeria. With limited pizzeria options in Germiston, she believes the new Pizza Hut will offer something fresh and unique to the community.  “Our pizzas are made to a high standard, and we bring convenience to our customers because we deliver,” Nyawuza told Time Out Johannesburg. “We also make sure our customers don’t wait long, we deliver on time.”  She added that the variety of pizzas and crust options sets Pizza Hut apart from other brands.  “The diversity of our pizzas and crusts makes us unique. Even before the branch officially opened, while construction was still underway, people were already sharing their excitement because they know and trust the brand,” she said. “Our pizzas don’t compare to any other.” Pizza Hut was founded in May 1958 by brothers Dan and Frank Carney in Wichita, Kansas. Since then, the brand has grown into a global name, with more than 14,000 restaurants worldwide, including locations across the United States, China, India, and South Africa. The new branch marks an exciting chapter for Germiston's