Visit The City Of Magic This Festive Season!

This festive season, Sandton City is proud to present the return of a wonderfully whimsical theatrical adventure with The Nutcracker’s Winter Circus. Bigger, better and back for another spectacular season, this year’s adventure includes creative master puppetry, set to bring a host of fun and fantastical characters to life, with the Parade of the Animals adding a captivating new dimension to the show.

Sandton City

Exclusive to Sandton City, the mysterious and magical Nutcracker’s Winter Circus Parade of The Animals is a fairytale fit for the whole family, set in an extravagant circus tent in the Centre Court.

Following the applauded success of the debut season in 2018, The Nutcracker’s Winter Circus achieved a Naledi Theatre Award nomination, a formidable first for a shopping centre. It also won a Gold & Spectrum Award in the 2019 South African Council of Shopping Centres’ Marketing Footprint Awards. The unprecedented popularity of the show among local and international families led to the anticipated return season in 2019.

Sandton City

With over 22 000 patrons enjoying the exclusive world first last year, the introduction of the Parade of the Animals this year is set to raise the creative bar and capture the spirit of Christmas with a rich tapestry of magic, puppetry and interactive illusion. The Parade of the Animals will not feature any live animals, but rather showcase the wonderful world of animals through theatrical performances by the show’s acclaimed actors.

Sandton City

The Nutcracker’s Winter Circus Parade of the Animals combines the highly talented production team of Producer Lyall Ramsden, Director and Designer Andrew Botha as well as acclaimed Choreographer and Creative David Gouldie, who together have created this 30-minute immersive spectacular that will continue to engage, excite and entertain audiences in 2019.

The City is a flurry of festive cheer with all the trimmings and with a host of magic and wonderment for the whole family. You’ll want to Come to the City to get into the holiday spirit and make it a season to celebrate.

Sandton City

When Is It?

From Wednesday, 11 December 2019 to Sunday, 05 January 2020.

There are four performances daily at 10:30, 12:30, 15:30 and 17:30, seven days a week, excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Where Is It?

Centre Court, Sandton City Shopping Centre, Rivonia Road, Sandton, Johannesburg.

Sandton City

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R20 per person online and are available from www.ticketpros.co.za (with no charge for children under three years) or by visiting selected Edgars, CNA, Jet and POSTNET stores.

Tickets are also available at the door at R30 per person.

Sandton City is passionate about Christmas with a cause, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Sandton SPCA.

For More Information

For more information about the Nutcracker’s Winter Circus at Sandton City Shopping Centre, visit their Facebook events page.

Also, visit sandtoncity.com, or contact them on 011 217 6000 or [email protected].

Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date with the latest news, events, specials and more.

#NutcrackerWinterCircus

Did You Know It’s a Heritage Site?

Yeah, we didn't know this interesting bit of information either! The Turffontein Racecourse, one of Joburg's best hidden gems, is in fact, a confirmed heritage site! This track owes its history to the early days of the thriving Gold Rush in 1886, as well as the popularity of horse racing among a new elite crowd and hopeful settlers who moved to Johannesburg to cash in on the newfound wealth in the area. In July 2016, Turffontein Racecourse was declared a heritage site by the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation. And as for the proof, you can go have a look at the Blue Plaque which is proudly displayed outside the main entrance to the racecourse. How interesting is that?

The Thrill of the Race, Of Course!

Just like any other sport, the thrill, excitement and adrenaline boost of the competition adds to the entire experience that comes along with a day at the races. Other than the entertaining events that the racecourse hosts (which we'll get into shortly), Turffontein Racecourse is also regarded as a major horse race training centre. Many horses use the facilities daily to prepare for their gallop down the stretch. Turffontein Racecourse boasts two tracks and it also has a straight course which hosts some of the biggest sprint races of the year. Some of the major races to look forward to at the Turffontein Racecourse include the annual Gauteng SANSUI Summer Cup, Champions Day, as well as the annual Triple Crown Series.

Turffontein Racecourse

It’s Where Lady Luck Waits

Feeling lucky? Then why not see if Lady Luck is on your side by placing a few bets on the race horses in hopes you have the winning filly or stallion. There's nothing more thrilling than placing a bet and scoring a few bucks for winning. Just keep in mind: gambling is addictive, so if you place a bet, do so responsibly! And if you're a newbie on the horse racing scene and have no idea how the betting works, don't worry, Turffontein Racecourse has laid it all out for you on their site. Here, they inform you of the various types of bets you can place so that the next time you spend a day at the races, you'll be sure to impress.

Exciting Events Galore

The Turffontein Racecourse, in partnership with Racing It's A Rush, always has amazing and adrenaline-filled events taking to the tracks throughout the year! You can expect live horse racing that'll have you buzzing and on your feet all day, great live entertainment, refreshing drinks at the beer gardens, designated kiddies entertainment areas where the little ones can play to their heart's content, sometimes even lucky draws on special event days and lots of delicious food. Wondering when the next event is? Check out the upcoming events below:

To keep "on track" with the latest events taking place at the Turffontein Racecourse, visit itsarush.co.za.

It'sARush

Fun Days Out For The Whole Family

Other than the thrills of horse racing, the Turffontein Racecourse also caters to the younger visitors to ensure that they're also thoroughly entertained while you enjoy the action on the track. The racecourse is child-friendly and offers a play area for the little ones, making it a fun day out for the whole family. Kiddies entertainment is also featured at their events.

Stunning Views Of The City

As if there wasn't enough reason to visit Turffontein Racecourse, we found another unexpected one - for some of the best skyline views of our beloved Joburg, this is the place to be. The views make for the perfect backdrop to all the excitement, action, adrenaline and entertainment out on the track.

Turffontein Racecourse

It's The Whole Package!

The Turffontein Racecourse is literally the whole package. The location is ideal as it's central and has easy access to the major road networks. It makes the perfect function venue (weddings, launches, year-end parties, cocktail parties, banquets, pageants, exhibitions, board meetings, conferencing and seminars) complete with experienced and focused co-ordinators. And in case you were wondering about parking, there's TONS of FREE parking!

For More Information

For more information about the Turffontein Racecourse, visit itsaruch.co.za or visit their Facebook page.

To keep up to date with the latest happenings, events and action on the track, follow Racing. It's A Rush on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Turffontein Racecourse

What Is It?

This is NOT just another expo. The Rand Show 2020 is a whole new experience that’s bringing the best of everything to Johannesburg. Rand Show guests can look forward to never-before-seen exclusives like the JacarandaFM Clash of Kitchens 2020, the Marvel Junior Super Hero Training Academy and the Disney Frozen 2 experience for the kids, fantastic food, entertainment and lots more. Experience six dedicated zones of fun for the whole family at Johannesburg’s most unforgettable Rand Show yet.

Keep reading to keep up to date with the latest news, announcements and features. 

When Is It?

Wednesday, 08 April 2020 to Sunday, 13 April 2020.

Where Is It?

The Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, Corner Nasrec Road and Randshow Road, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Book your Rand Show 2020 tickets online before 31 March 2020, and not only will you qualify for a big discount, you’ll also be entered to win a brand-new Yamaha Waverunner EX1050 Sport on a trailer, valued at R245 000!

Get your tickets now! Ticket prices are as follows*:

Standard Day Pass:

Kids Day Pass:

Pensioners Day Pass:

Family Pass:

Standard Four Day Pass: 

*Online Early Bird specials only valid until 31 March 2020. Ts and Cs apply.

For More Information

For more information about The Rand Show, click here to visit their website.

Don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

The Latest News on The Rand Show 2020!

Keep checking this space to see the latest news, announcements and features that have been added to The Rand Show 2020 lineup!

SA’S DIY Queen, Suzelle DIY, Will Be At The Rand Show!

Much-loved YouTube and TV star, Suzelle DIY, is joining the brand-new Rand Show 2020, and will be demonstrating a few of her fabulous, fun DIY techniques in her trademark ditzy style at #MyRandShow.

Suzelle’s hilarious – and useful – videos have made her a South African social media icon, with her tutorials being viewed and shared by thousands of South Africans. Her exclusive Rand Show 2020 appearance will include demos on:

Suzelle will be doing will be two demos a day in the Lifestyle and Retail Zone, from Friday to Sunday, and will also spend some time interacting with her fans in the audience. She may even have one or two surprises in store for fans and exhibitors alike.

Suzelle DIY in a pink jersey wearing goggles and holding a drill

Photo by Ari Kruger

SA Bakers’ Association Cake Competition Will Take The Cake

Rand Show 2020 honours South Africa’s proud culinary tradition as it hosts the delectable SA Bakers’ Association Cake Competition and the JacarandaFM Clash of Kitchens at the new-look Rand Show 2020 Foodie Zone. The Foodie Zone will be home to a feast of flavour discoveries, from craft beer and gin, to delicious farm-fresh fare at the Farmers’ Market.

The JacarandaFM Clash of Kitchens is a high-stakes reality cooking show that will see teams of two bring their fabulous foodie flair to life as they battle it out for their share of R150 000 in cash and prizes. To join the SA Chefs’ Association and compete for your chance to be recognised as South Africa’s next great culinary wizard, visit www.randshow.co.za.

Entries for the SA Bakers’ Association Cake Competition are open to people of all ages who are passionate about creating their own baked works of art and feel that they have what it takes to compete for their share of R18 000 in prize money.

If you think your baking talent is up to par and would like to enter, these are the rules:

The master bakers from the SA Bakers’ Association will be on-hand to manage and judge the competition, and will also be hosting the Bakers’ Corner alongside Wooden Spoon from Willowton’s Group, featuring baking workshops for all ages to discover. All bakers competing in the SA Bakers’ Association Cake Competition will be invited to display their masterpieces in the Foodie Zone on Saturday, 11 April 2020 at 09:00. Judging will take place at 13:00.

baked cake with black fondant topped with pink icing roses

Cosplay's Best At The World Cosplay Summit

The self-confessed geeks, gamers and pop culture junkies are in for something special, too, as NAG’s Play Zone 2 swoops in to create a haven of gaming, esports and cosplay, all at the Festival of Gaming #connected by Vodacom 4U, exclusively at Rand Show 2020.

Cosplay enthusiasts can look forward to seeing their favourite heroes from Japanese pop culture come to life at the World Cosplay Summit (WCS) South African Championship – an event that will entice the best cosplayers from around the country.

For the first time, SA’s best and brightest will be heading to Rand Show 2020 in teams of two, to show off their own skilfully made and intricately detailed costumes, and to deliver unique performance art pieces in the form of skits in full regalia as their favourite characters. The South African WCS winner will head to Japan to compete with over 40 countries in the WCS World Championship, where one team will be crowned the ultimate global WCS Champion.

Look forward to appearances from South Africa’s greatest cosplayers, who will be donning elaborate foam, latex, worbla and fabric creations, complete with capes, helmets, wings, wigs and more.

cosplayers in the vibrant costumes

Kids to Release Their Inner Super Heroes with Marvel

Rand Show 2020 is an exciting reinvention for a new generation. The experiences that await every member of the family are set to spark new passions and stir brand new sensations. For kids aged 3 to 12 in particular, Play Zone 1 is an immersive world of wonder, with mesmerising activations to transfix the younger members of the family.

In a first for the Rand Show, kids up to the age of 12 will be able to participate in the Marvel Junior Super Hero Training Academy. The unique training academy experience is a Marvel-themed event that gives kids the opportunity to learn the signature moves of some of Marvel’s most iconic heroes in specially curated sessions.

All over the world, kids imagine becoming Marvel role models like Thor, Black Panther, Captain America, Black Widow and Spider-Man. At Rand Show 2020, imagination comes to life, allowing kids to train and earn their very own Marvel Junior Super Hero membership card.

Entrance is free, as long as you are in possession of a valid Rand Show ticket and a ticket for your selected time slot. Book now to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Daily time slots are as follows:

Marvel superheroes in their costumes

Joburg’s Bustling Art Scene

Have you done an art tour of Joburg yet? No? Well, then Now is your chance! Johannesburg is home to some iconic galleries, not to mention a barrage of modern, niche spaces and they all host the most thought-provoking and inspirational local art.

Galleries are spread throughout the city but I suggest doing one of the ‘art routes’, as they are now being called. My favourite is the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank which boasts a bunch of the best galleries, and they are all within close proximity to each other. Start at Circa on Jellicoe and make your way through Speke, SMAC, Southern Guild and WHATIFTHEWORLD.

The Healthy Option - Join ParkRun South Africa

For those of you that aren’t familiar with the Park Runs, they are 5km routes which take place in the most stunning parks and are open to all to enjoy. But you might be wondering how this is different to you just running around the block a few times? Well, the Park Runs are firstly stunning considering they take place in some of Joburg’s best parks (Delta Park, Modderfontein Park, etc) but also make for a lot of fun because the whole community gets involved. Both walkers and runners are welcome! Click here to find out more and to register for free!#

Visit A Market

Markets are great when you’re trying to work to a budget because unlike a restaurant, you don’t have to eat a meal to relax and take in the atmosphere. You can enjoy a day filled with plenty of entertainment for the kids, relaxing seating areas in the shade, some good food and a fantastic vibe. And best of all, some markets have no entrance fee, so you can walk in and suss out everything for FREE. You could wander the market, grab a drink, let the kids mission around and you’d likely spend under R100 for the whole afternoon. Visit the Modderfontein Farmers' Market that takes place every first and last Saturday of the month (27 January 2018 is the next one!), it has plenty of fun for the whole family.

Head To A Park

People think Joburg is all cement and urban jungle but the opposite is actually true. Joburg is home to an abundance of parks. It seems that the Joburg municipality always placed a strong emphasis on keeping the city green and it has paid off in the form of well-kept and luscious parks. There is a park in almost every area so you have no excuse! Take your pick from James and Ethel Gray Park in Melrose, George Lea Park in Sandton, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens (there s an entrance fee here), Modderfontein Reserve (small charge to get into this one), Delta Park in the Blairgowrie area and Gillooly's Farm in Bedfordview. So, pack some picnic goodies, get the friends and family together and head down to your local park for a day of old-fashioned fun on a budget.

Take A Hike!

And while you're out and about in nature, why not take a hike? Not only is it a great way to kickstart burning off those extra kilos gained over the festive season, but it's also not too heavy on your wallet. You can head to Melville Koppies for a day of walking and gently climbing in sectors East and West, or book your spot for a guided hiking tour through the Central sector. It's child-friendly, cheap and safe. You can also go to Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens and hike through a variety of trails and check out the eagles that take up residence near the waterfall.

Explore The City With City Sightseeing Tours

When was the last time you explored the city like a tourist? If you can't remember, then make sure you take a day or two enjoying the sights and points of interest of Johannesburg with City Sightseeing Tours. Sure, it will cost you a little under R200 for the day, but it is totally worth it considering you'll be hopping on and off an open-top red bus to see and explore the city's top 20 attractions. It's a must! A few attractions on the list include the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill and SAB World of Beer, just to name a few.

Jump About At BOUNCE Inc

If there's one thing you need to blow your last hundred-and-something bucks on, it's a fun jumping session at BOUNCE Inc! And trust us, this isn't just fun that for the young ones. Spend a few hours bumping from trampoline to trampoline, slam-dunking, dodgeballing, climbing, flipping and flopping. It's great exercise, an awesome idea if you're looking to hang out with friends who are also on a budget, and loads of fun! Make sure you book your session, you can even do so online at Bounce Inc. General admission is R100* for junior jumper and student sessions and R125* per adult.

Please note: The prices mentioned in this article were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Please check with venues about prices before booking or visiting. 

Have you been to any of these spots or done any of these activities? Tell us about your experience below!