Adventure At Your Fingertips

A Festive Swing at Montecasino 2026

Forget the mall carols on repeat. This December, Johannesburg gets a Christmas party with brass, swagger and a proper singalong. A Festive Swing lands at Montecasino's Teatro for eight performances only, from 11 to 20 December 2026, and it promises to be the most wonderful show of the year.Presented by Howard Events and powered by HOT 1027, the show pairs the Johannesburg Big Band with four of South Africa's most charismatic performers. Think swinging jazz, seasonal favourites and plenty of laughs. Watch the promo video for a taste.What Is A Festive Swing?A Festive Swing is a family-friendly Christmas musical spectacular that blends big band sound with holiday cheer. It is the latest production from Howard Events, the team behind the hugely popular Swingle Bells, Swingin' Las Vegas (in both 2024 and 2025) and Jonathan Roxmouth: My Favourite Broadway.Inspired by beloved Christmas productions from around the world, the show reimagines evergreen traditions for a local audience. Expect striking visuals, immersive staging and moments of humour, surprise and reflection. Producers Adam and Belinda Howard say it best: "We all lead such busy lives, so to be able to come together with family and friends, sing along to the songs and have a few laughs in between is what this time of year should always be about."Meet the Voices Behind the SwingThe line-up reads like a who's who of South African entertainment, with plenty of range, humour and sheer vocal power.Ross LearmonthA leading light of the local rock scene, Ross is the founder and frontman of Prime Circle and now enjoys a successful solo career. Hearing that voice wrapped around a big band arrangement is a treat.Monique SteynA top competitor in the first season of Idols South Africa, Monique has been releasing well-regarded albums since 2010.Tracey-Lee OliverSinger, actress and comedian, Tracey-Lee has appeared in major musicals such as Dreamgirls and toured with Kings and Queens of Comedy. She has also earned rave reviews on Project Fame and The Voice.Harry SideropoulosSinger, comedian and celebrity chef, Harry has delighted fans for decades with his gravelly voice and exuberant personality. Expect him to steal a scene or two.What to Expect on the NightThe setlist is built on instantly recognisable holiday favourites, each given a big band twist and designed to stir up nostalgia, warmth and connection. Highlights include:Rudolph the Red Nosed ReindeerJingle Bell RockBaby It's Cold OutsideWinter WonderlandSomer Kersfees, a local favourite for the singalongPlus many more, so there is something for everyoneWhether you are four or 94, the show is designed to leave you feeling merry and bright. It is a premium holiday spectacular, and a multi-sensory one at that.The Johannesburg Big Band and Howard EventsPowering the music is the acclaimed 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band, conducted by Maestro Adam Howard. Its sound is elegant, textured and punchy, which is exactly what a swinging Christmas show needs.Howard Events is the live production arm of Howard Audio, the multi award-winning studio founded by Adam and Belinda Howard. The story began in 2011 with the formation of the Johannesburg Big Band and has grown into a production house creating big band swing shows, orchestral collaborations and Broadway classics. Their portfolio also includes A Swingin' Christmas and collaborations with the 32-piece Egoli Symphonic Orchestra.A Festive Swing: Show InformationVenue, Dates and Show TimesVenue: Montecasino's Teatro, JohannesburgSeason: Friday, 11 December to Sunday, 20 December 2026Fridays, 11 and 18 December: 19h00Saturdays, 12 and 19 December: 14h00 and 19h00Sundays, 13 and 20 December: 14h00Tickets and BookingPrices: R240 to R490, including VATBook at: Webtickets or any Pick n Pay outletGroup discounts: available for groups of 10 or moreValid tickets only: only tickets bought from Webtickets or Pick n Pay outlets will be accepted at the doorGood to KnowNo children under 3 years permittedOnly eight performances, so popular dates are likely to go quicklyShare your night with #FestiveSwingMontecasinoMake a Night of It in JoburgA show this good deserves a proper outing around it. Browse our Joburg events guide for more festive happenings across the city, or explore our things to do in Johannesburg for dinner spots and family-friendly ideas before or after the curtain rises. A matinee on Saturday or Sunday also makes a lovely start to a festive weekend, with the whole family in tow.The show is produced by Howard Events and supported by HOT 102.7 FM, so tune in for updates and ticket giveaways in the lead-up.Book Your Seats for A Festive SwingWith only eight chances to catch it, A Festive Swing is shaping up to be a new Johannesburg holiday tradition. Gather your loved ones, practise your best sing-along voice and book your tickets on Webtickets today. Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Joburg.

UJ Dean's Concert 2026: A Grand Night for Singing | Arts

Discover an inspiring evening of classical vocal mastery, choral magnificence, and philanthropy at the UJ Arts Centre this November.A Celebration of Vocal Artistry and Musical PassionFor lovers of classical music, opera, and choral traditions, Johannesburg offers few gatherings as rich in artistry and purpose as the annual Dean’s Concert. On Saturday, 7 November 2026, UJ Arts & Culture, a division of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) at the University of Johannesburg, invites patrons to experience A Grand Night for Singing. Staged in the acoustic elegance of the UJ Arts Centre on the Kingsway Campus in Auckland Park, this anticipated performance promises an exquisite blend of vocal brilliance and profound artistic synergy.Running from 17:30 to 19:30, the concert brings together distinguished soloists and the renowned UJ Choir for a vibrant showcase. Designed specifically for refined cultural enthusiasts, the evening celebrates timeless repertoire while supporting a deeply meaningful cause within the university's academic community.To find out more, view our event listing here!Virtuoso Performers and World-Class TalentThe program features an exceptional lineup of South African musical talent, uniting seasoned classical artists and dynamic vocal ensembles on one stage.Prof. Federico Freschi (Baritone)Serving as both host and soloist, Professor Federico Freschi, the Executive Dean of FADA, brings his celebrated baritone voice to the stage. Beyond his academic leadership, Professor Freschi possesses a distinguished career as an operatic soloist and recitalist. His passion for classical performance shines through every appearance, giving audiences a rare opportunity to see an executive leader express his deep lifelong commitment to the performing arts.Angela Gilbert (Soprano)Joining Professor Freschi is internationally acclaimed soprano Angela Gilbert. Renowned for her luminous vocal clarity, dramatic resonance, and expressive interpretative capability, Gilbert has captivated audiences across South Africa and abroad. Her classical repertoire ranges from grand operatic masterworks to delicate art songs, making her performances a highlight for discerning classical enthusiasts.Christopher Duigan (Concert Pianist)Providing magnificent accompaniment throughout the evening is Christopher Duigan, one of South Africa’s premier concert pianists and music entrepreneurs. Known for his technical virtuosity and sensitive collaborative playing, Duigan’s musical direction ensures an unforgettable experience for classical piano and vocal aficionados alike.The UJ Choir Led by Sizwe MondlaneAdding grandeur to the evening is the world-renowned UJ Choir, under the direction of choirmaster Sizwe Mondlane. Celebrated globally for their rich harmonies, dynamic range, and seamless integration of Western classical traditions with authentic African choral music, the choir brings vibrant energy and emotional resonance to the concert hall.A Royal Purpose: Supporting the Dean’s Bursary FundWhile A Grand Night for Singing offers an outstanding musical experience, its primary mission is rooted in uplifting the next generation of creative visionaries. The Dean’s Concert serves as a vital fundraising gala for the Dean’s Bursary Fund within the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture.Higher education in creative disciplines requires significant resources, and many academically gifted students encounter severe financial hardships that threaten their academic progress. Every ticket purchased for this event directly contributes to providing financial assistance, scholarships, and essential academic resources to deserving FADA students.By attending the Dean’s Concert, patrons are not merely audience members; they become active sponsors of future architects, fine artists, performers, industrial designers, and creative innovators who will shape the future landscape of South African culture.Why You Should Attend This Premier Cultural EventJohannesburg’s cultural calendar is filled with varied entertainment, but few events offer the unique synthesis of high-calibre classical music and tangible community impact found at the Dean’s Concert. Here is why art and music patrons should secure their seats:An Intimate Musical Evening: Experience operatic highlights, lyrical art songs, and uplifting choral works performed live in a world-class venue.Support South African Youth: Transform lives by helping deserving university students overcome financial barriers and complete their tertiary qualifications.Connect with Art and Culture Enthusiasts: Spend an evening surrounded by fellow arts patrons, university leaders, and creative practitioners in a welcoming, sophisticated atmosphere.A Pristine Venue Experience: Enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities and acoustics of the UJ Arts Centre, located conveniently in the heart of Johannesburg's vibrant Auckland Park.Event Details and Booking InformationSeats for this exclusive annual performance are limited. Patrons are encouraged to book early to secure optimal seating within the auditorium.Event Title:A Grand Night for Singing (2026 UJ Dean’s Concert)Date:Saturday, 7 November 2026Time:17:30 – 19:30 SASTVenue:UJ Arts Centre, Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park, JohannesburgTicket Price:From R150 per personBooking Platform:Available online via QuicketJoin UJ Arts & Culture on 7 November for an unforgettable musical gala where passion meets philanthropy. Book your tickets today through Quicket and play an active role in nurturing South Africa’s bright young artistic talent.

Get Your Creep On: Joburg's 2026 Halloween Events

Halloween lands on a Saturday this year, which gives Joburg two full nights of spooky plans to choose from. Joburg.co.za has picked out the events worth putting in your diary, from family trick-or-treat trails to all-night costume parties. Book early, because the best tickets go fast!Edenvale Halloween Night MarketDate: Friday, 30 October 2026, from 18:00 to 23:00The annual Edenvale Halloween Night Market takes over the Edenvale German Club, 8 to 10 Plantation Road, for a family night of spooky stalls, food, drinks, and trick-or-treating at every stall. A best-dressed competition with prizes keeps the costumes front and centre, while live music keeps the dance floor busy. Admission is just R30 per person at the gate.View the Edenvale Halloween Night Market event listing on Joburg.co.zaRebels Night Market: Halloween EditionDate: Friday, 30 October 2026, from 17:00 to 22:00The Rebels Night Market moves to Rusty Hook, 22 Wilge Road, Honeydew, for its Halloween edition. Expect kids’ trick-or-treat options at the stalls, a best-dressed contest, spooky photo ops, alternative and craft vendors, and surprise giveaways. The first 50 people through the gate also get a free goodie bag. Entry is R30 per person at the gate.View the Rebels Night Market Halloween Edition event listing on Joburg.co.zaSecret Sunrise JHB HalloweenDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 08:30 to 09:30Start Halloween early with a guided silent disco at Sandton Gate, 25 Minerva Avenue, Glenadrienne. Put on your headsets for bone-shaking beats, playful breathwork, and a spooky energy reset. Capes, tutus, glow sticks, and quirky hats are all welcome, and surprise treats await the most spooktacular dancer. Tickets start at R100 per person. Get your tickets now!View the Secret Sunrise JHB Halloween event listing on Joburg.co.zaHaunted House: 4YouthDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 12:00 to 23:00The 4Youth Haunted House is a festival built for young people, by young people, and it now takes over Sass The Venue, 12 Concorde Road West, Bedfordview. Four experience zones cover entertainment, play, enjoy, and chill, and DJ Kent headlines. Earn XP through online challenges before the day, then spend it on games, giveaways, and competitions at the event. Tickets range from R200 to R600 per person.View the 4Youth Haunted House Festival event listing on Joburg.co.zaFrankenstein’s Laboratory of CuriositiesDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 12:00Darrenwood Sports Club hosts a different kind of Halloween event, packed with weird and wonderful creatures, haunted chairs, and strange sounds that go bump in the dark. Step into Dr Frankenstein’s laboratory to meet the monster in the making. The full experience adds live music, dinner, and a comedy horror movie with free popcorn later in the evening. No children under 8 are admitted, and no alcohol is allowed on site. Tickets range from R100 to R320. Get your tickets now!View the Frankenstein’s Laboratory of Curiosities event listing on Joburg.co.zaThe Haunted Forest® 10 Year AnniversaryDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 15:00 to 23:00The Haunted Forest® celebrates its 10th anniversary at a new venue, Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Road, Glenferness AH. Walk through a foggy forest of life-size scenes and scare actors, watch films on the big screen, and make your way around the bar, picnic area, and food village. Younger visitors can trick-or-treat in the forest before the forest walk, and prizes go to the Most Horrific Family and the Freakiest Couple. Adult tickets range from R150 to R300, and toddlers enter free. Get your tickets now!View the Haunted Forest event listing on Joburg.co.zaSAPRA Halloween WalkaboutDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 16:00 to 18:00Saxonwold and Parkwood residents turn their streets into a trick-or-treat route with Halloween stands along Blandford and Wells Roads. The walk starts and ends at Fearnhead Park, 25 Blandford Road, Parkwood, and every rand raised goes towards improving the park. The Walkabout costs R150 per person, a personalised Halloween bucket is R80, and face painting is R60. Get your tickets now!View the SAPRA Halloween Walkabout event listing on Joburg.co.zaThe Halloween Experience at Johannesburg ZooDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 17:00Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo brings back its annual Halloween night, with themed zones, trick-or-treat activities, costume contests, and live entertainment. The 2025 edition drew more than 5 000 visitors, almost double the year before, so expect a crowd. Tickets range from R81 to R135. Get your tickets now!View the Halloween Experience at Johannesburg Zoo event listing on Joburg.co.zaBollyweenDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 17:00 to 03:00Bollyween celebrates its fourth year at Maracanà, 58 Wierda Road East, Wierda Valley, Sandton. South Africa’s largest Bollywood EDM festival goes full dark mode, with a festival stage, BollyRave™ DJs, live acts, and Bollywood anthems meeting rave culture. Tickets start at R80, and VIP seating starts at R1 000. Get your tickets now!View the Bollyween event listing on Joburg.co.zaGold Reef City Halloween Movie NightDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 18:00The Town Square at Gold Reef City becomes an open-air cinema under the stars. Your ticket covers selected rides, a gourmet picnic basket dinner for two, and a screening of the 2010 horror film A Nightmare on Elm Street, which starts at 20:00. The price is R1 200 per couple. Get your tickets now!View the Gold Reef City Halloween Movie Night event listing on Joburg.co.zaPrime: Halloween EditionDate: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 20:00 to 05:00Residency, 34 Webber Street, Selby, gets themed lighting and a costumed crowd for an all-night city-centre party. Local DJs mix amapiano, hip hop, house, and chart-topping dance tracks for a genre-fluid evening. Tickets start at R100. Get your tickets now!View the Prime: Halloween Edition event listing on Joburg.co.zaHalloween Rave 2026Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 21:00Teknotribe, Science Frikshun, Psyology, and The Temple team up at AND Night Club and CARFAX in Newtown for a supernatural urban rave. The theme is “Embrace the darkness within”, so come as an ancient witch, a restless spirit, a seductive vampire, or your darkest take on a classic monster. Tickets range from R200 to R300. Get your tickets now!View the Halloween Rave 2026 event listing on Joburg.co.zaKeen on winning one of these best-dressed contests, but still don’t know what you’re wearing? Check out our favourite places to snag winning Halloween costumes!Frequently asked questionsWhen and where is The Haunted Forest in 2026?The Haunted Forest® 10 Year Anniversary runs on Saturday, 31 October 2026, from 15:00 to 23:00 at Prison Break Market, 10 MacMillan Road, Glenferness AH. Adult tickets range from R150 to R300, and toddlers enter free.How much are the Halloween night markets in Johannesburg?Entry to the Edenvale Halloween Night Market and the Rebels Night Market is R30 per person at the gate. Both take place on Friday, 30 October 2026, with Edenvale running from 18:00 to 23:00 and Rebels from 17:00 to 22:00.What is included in Halloween at Johannesburg Zoo in 2026?The Halloween Experience at Johannesburg Zoo starts at 17:00 on Saturday, 31 October 2026. It features themed zones, trick-or-treat activities, costume contests, and live entertainment. Tickets range from R81 to R135 on Webtickets.Which Halloween events in Johannesburg suit young children?The Haunted Forest® offers trick-or-treating and free entry for toddlers. The Zoo, the SAPRA Halloween Walkabout, and both Friday night markets also welcome families. Frankenstein’s Laboratory of Curiosities does not admit children under 8.Where can I find a Halloween party in Johannesburg for adults?Saturday, 31 October 2026 has three late-night options: Prime: Halloween Edition at Residency in Selby, Halloween Rave 2026 in Newtown, and Bollyween at Maracanà in Sandton, which runs until 03:00.