Gauteng residents are spoiled for choice this weekend, with international music legends, major festivals, food experiences and live performances taking place across Johannesburg and Pretoria from 29 to 31 May.
Leading the lineup is the highly anticipated return of Boyz II Men, who will perform at Pretoria’s SunBet Arena, while festival lovers can choose between the Portuguese Festival, The People’s Picnic, the Benoni Beer & Gin Fest and the Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival.
Whether you’re looking for a large scale concert, an outdoor music festival or a family friendly weekend outing, there is no shortage of entertainment options across the province.
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Boyz II Men Headline the Weekend
One of the weekend’s biggest attractions is the return of legendary American R&B group Boyz II Men.
The Grammy Award winning group will perform two shows at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, bringing classic hits such as:
- End of the Road
- I’ll Make Love to You
- On Bended Knee
- Motownphilly
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boyz II Men Live in South Africa | SunBet Arena, Pretoria | 29 and 30 May | R950 to R2950 |
The People’s Picnic Brings Soulful Sounds to Modderfontein
One of Gauteng’s most anticipated lifestyle events returns this weekend.
The People’s Picnic combines music, food and outdoor entertainment with performances from:
- Kelvin Momo
- Mi Casa
- DJ Kent
- Babalwa M
- Chowmein
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The People’s Picnic | Fourways Farmers Market | 30 May | From R400 |
Portuguese Festival Returns to Nasrec
The Original Portuguese Festival returns to Johannesburg Expo Centre for three days of music, food and cultural celebrations.
Visitors can expect:
- Portuguese cuisine
- International artists
- Live entertainment
- Family activities
- Traditional performances
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portuguese Festival | Johannesburg Expo Centre | 29 to 31 May | From R30 |
Benoni Beer & Gin Fest Returns
East Rand festivalgoers can head to the Benoni Beer & Gin Fest for craft drinks and live performances.
This year’s music lineup includes:
- Matthew Mole
- PH Fat
- Easy Freak
- WONDERboom
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benoni Beer & Gin Fest | Benoni Northerns Sports Club | 30 May | From R150 |
Cap Classique and Champagne Festival Returns to Sandton
For those seeking a more sophisticated weekend experience, the Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival returns to Inanda Polo Club.
The festival offers:
- Premium sparkling wine tastings
- Live entertainment
- Gourmet food
- VIP experiences
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival | Inanda Polo Club | 30 and 31 May | From R450 |
Rebirth of Ubuntu Concert Celebrates South African Music
Joburg Theatre will host the fifth edition of the Rebirth of Ubuntu Concert, commemorating 50 years since the 1976 Youth Uprising.
Artists include:
- Lira
- Vusi Nova
- Zoë Modiga
- Billy Monama
- Jimmy Dludlu
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rebirth of Ubuntu Concert | Joburg Theatre | 29 and 30 May | R350 to R1800 |
Lloyiso Headlines Sunset Music Series
South African pop sensation Lloyiso will take to the stage at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden on Sunday afternoon.
The outdoor performance forms part of the popular Sunset Music Series.
Event Details
| Event | Venue | Date | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset Music Series with Lloyiso | Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden | 31 May | From R195 |
More Music Events Worth Checking Out
Other live music highlights this weekend include:
| Event | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Sankofa Nite: Music for the People | Zoo Lake | 30 May |
| The Afrodiaspora Connection Showcase | Soweto Equestrian Centre | 31 May |
| St David’s Jazz Festival | Sandton | 30 May |
| Lovers & Friends | Rivonia | 30 May |
| Shane Cooper & The Brother Moves On | Wits Theatre | 30 May |
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
This weekend’s event calendar highlights Gauteng’s position as one of South Africa’s leading entertainment destinations.
From international artists and heritage celebrations to food festivals and local music showcases, residents have access to a wide range of cultural experiences without leaving the province.
The variety of events also supports tourism, hospitality businesses, event organisers and local artists across Gauteng.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the biggest concert happening this weekend?
Boyz II Men at SunBet Arena is expected to be one of the largest concerts taking place in Gauteng this weekend.
Which festival is best for music lovers?
The People’s Picnic, Portuguese Festival, Rebirth of Ubuntu Concert and Benoni Beer & Gin Fest all feature strong live music lineups.
Are there family friendly events?
Yes. The Portuguese Festival, Coffee Festival and Cap Classique Festival offer family friendly activities.
Which events are in Pretoria?
Boyz II Men, Tequila & Mexican Food Festival and several lifestyle events are taking place in Pretoria.
Which events require advance booking?
Most major concerts and festivals recommend advance booking due to limited ticket availability.
What Happens Next?
Event organisers are expected to release additional winter event calendars over the coming weeks as Gauteng enters one of its busiest entertainment periods of the year. Major music festivals, theatre productions and cultural celebrations are scheduled across the province throughout June and July.
Source event listings compiled from the weekend events schedule.
