The Vaal River Carnival 2026 will bring more than two months of entertainment, sport, arts and cultural experiences to the Vaal from 28 August to 4 October 2026. Hosted across multiple venues in the Emfuleni Local Municipality, the programme includes comedy, theatre, music festivals, sporting events, fashion showcases, cycling, marathon races and family friendly experiences. Organisers say the carnival aims to promote tourism, celebrate local talent and showcase the Vaal as one of Gauteng’s leading leisure and lifestyle destinations. The official media launch has not yet been confirmed and has therefore not been included in this guide.

Tyla is bringing her A*POP Takeover to Gold Reef City. Here’s what Gauteng fans need to know about the event, tickets, transport, dining, accommodation and things to do nearby

The Delicious International Food and Music Festival will move from its traditional September slot to 10 and 11 April 2027 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Midrand, Gauteng, organisers have confirmed. The change follows the end of the Delicious festival’s long standing sponsorship relationship with DStv and comes with the announcement of the South African Broadcasting Corporation as the official broadcast partner. The shift matters for Gauteng festival goers because one of the province’s biggest annual food and music events will no longer take place over its familiar Heritage Weekend period.

Two internationally acclaimed R&B artists will perform in Gauteng over the Women’s Day long weekend, giving music lovers the chance to enjoy live entertainment in both Pretoria and Brakpan. American singer Tamia will perform at SunBet Arena in Pretoria on Monday, 10 August 2026, while soul legend Glenn Jones takes to the stage at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena on Sunday, 9 August 2026. Together, the concerts provide visitors and residents with an opportunity to celebrate Women’s Day while exploring some of Gauteng’s restaurants, hotels and attractions.