Event Gig Guide: What’s Happening In Gauteng This Weekend (31 May & 1 June 2025)

Get ready for an exciting weekend packed with vibrant events across Gauteng! Whether you’re into live music, festivals, theatre, or family fun, there’s something happening for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best gigs and happenings on Saturday, 31 May, and Sunday, 1 June 2025.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Hotels & Accommodation Options Near KEM’s Live Sunbet Arena Concert

Music and Festivals

KEM Live in South Africa

Dates: 30 & 31 May 2025
Location: Sunbet Arena at Time Square, Pretoria
Soul music fans are in for a treat as multi-Grammy nominated R&B superstar KEM performs live for two nights. Enjoy KEM’s captivating vocals. Experience his heartfelt lyrics promise an unforgettable concert.

CHECK OUT: Kem Live at SunBet Arena Pretoria: Top 10 Restaurants to Enjoy Near the Venue

MTN Bushfire Festival

Dates: 30 May – 1 June 2025
Location: House on Fire, Johannesburg
This iconic festival returns with an eclectic mix of music, arts, and culture. Expect soulful performances and both local and international artists. The lively atmosphere is perfect for music lovers.

Varsity Fest JHB 2025

Date: 30 – 31 May 2025
Location: Zone 6 Venue, Johannesburg
A must-visit for students and young adults, Varsity Fest offers a dynamic lineup of DJs and live acts. The event creates an energetic party vibe to kick off the weekend.

Benoni Beer & Gin Fest 2025

Date: 31 May 2025
Location: Benoni Northerns Sports Club, Benoni
Craft beer and gin enthusiasts will enjoy this festival featuring tastings, food stalls, and live entertainment. It’s a great spot to unwind and discover new flavours.

Sunset Picnic Cinema (Family Edition)

Date: 31 May 2025
Location: DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Bring the whole family for an outdoor movie experience under the stars. Enjoy picnic vibes with food vendors and a family-friendly film screening.

Portuguese Festival 2025

Date: 31 May 2025
Location: Johannesburg South
Celebrate Portuguese culture with traditional food, music, and dance. This vibrant festival promises a rich cultural experience for all ages.

Theatre and Live Performances

Malo and the Moon Maiden (Cirque-Theatre Production)

Date: 31 May 2025, 14:00
Location: The Cirk, Cresta Shopping Centre, Randburg
This enchanting show tells a magical tale of love and hope through stunning circus acts and theatrical storytelling. It’s a perfect afternoon outing for those who appreciate creative performances.

The Last Country (14+)

Dates: From 30 May 2025, 19:00
Location: Mannie Manim, Market Theatre, Johannesburg
The Last Country is an immersive and deeply moving Empatheatre production featuring some of South Africa’s top talents. The play draws from 30 oral histories of migrant women, weaving together stories of leaving home, arriving in Durban, and forging new identities. The production explores themes of struggle, hope, resilience, and belonging.

MBONGENI NGEMA’S SARAFINA

Dates: From 30 May 2025, 19:30
Location: Mandela Theatre, Joburg Theatre, Johannesburg
The Joburg Theatre presents the critically acclaimed musical Sarafina! in a special re-staging that honours the Ngema family’s legacy. Set against the backdrop of the 1976 Soweto student uprising, Sarafina! celebrates the courage and resilience of the women who fought for freedom during apartheid.

Markets and Community Events

The Linden Market Winter Edition

Dates: 31 May – 1 June 2025
Location: Linden, Johannesburg
Explore local artisan crafts and delicious food stalls. Live music at this popular community market is a highlight. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local entrepreneurs.

Schulbasar 2025

Date: 31 May 2025, 10:00 – 18:00
Location: Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg, 11 Sans Souci Road, Parktown
Hosted by the Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg, experience the ultimate German cultural celebration with a wide variety of beers, traditional German food and delicacies, and live performances on stage. The event also features a tea garden and activities for children of all ages, making it a fantastic outing for families.

Prawn Festival at The Troyeville

Date: Saturday, 31 May 2025, 12:00 – 17:00
Location: The Troyeville, Johannesburg
Get ready for a feast of delicious Queen Prawns at the Prawn Festival. The full Troyeville menu will be available, as well as for those who prefer other dishes.

This weekend in Gauteng offers a rich variety of experiences. From the pulsating beats at MTN Bushfire and Varsity Fest to the cultural vibrancy of the Portuguese Festival, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Theatre lovers can indulge in captivating performances like Mbongeni Ngema’s Sarafina!. For families, markets and outdoor cinemas provide both fun and relaxation. Explorers have the outdoors to enjoy, with a variety of markets. Meanwhile, food and drink festivals promise delightful tastings.

Plan your weekend now and make the most of what Gauteng has to offer on 31 May and 1 June 2025!