As the seasons shift, this weekend’s events highlight a slower, more social pace of travel and leisure.
Image used for illustrative purposes/FitNish Media/Unsplash
It is a good time to explore local spaces and make the most of autumn across the country. Why not start with this guide and see where the weekend takes you?
GAUTENG
Candlelight: Coldplay vs Imagine Dragons
📍 Sandton
📅 9 May 2026
A live string quartet performs music by Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in an intimate candlelit setting. This globally recognised concert format is known for its atmosphere and visual appeal, making it a popular choice for couples and small groups.
Dada Masilo’s Hamlet
📍 Market Theatre
📅 8 to 10 May 2026
This contemporary dance interpretation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet brings together physical theatre and bold choreography. The production is one of the season’s key cultural highlights in Johannesburg.
Wits Standard Bank Piano Festival
📍 University of the Witwatersrand
📅 8 to 10 May 2026
This established festival celebrates jazz and classical piano, featuring performances by leading South African musicians alongside emerging talent.
AFROZUM 2026
📍 Gallagher Convention Centre
📅 7 to 9 May 2026
A large-scale furniture and design expo showcasing African craftsmanship, interiors, and contemporary design trends. The event attracts both industry professionals and design enthusiasts.
Mother’s Day events and experiences
📍 Various locations across Johannesburg and Pretoria
📅 10 May 2026
Restaurants, hotels, and outdoor venues host curated brunches, picnics, and live music experiences. Booking ahead is recommended as venues fill up quickly.
WESTERN CAPE
Autumn wine tasting experiences
📍 Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl
📅 8 to 10 May 2026
The post-harvest season offers relaxed wine tastings, seasonal menus, and live music at estates across the Cape Winelands. This is one of the best times of year to explore the region at a slower pace.
Neighbourhood markets and weekend food events
📍 Oranjezicht City Farm Market and surrounding areas
📅 9 to 10 May 2026
Weekend markets bring together local food vendors, fresh produce, and artisan goods. Many also feature live music and family-friendly spaces.
Mother’s Day lunches and vineyard experiences
📍 Cape Town and Winelands
📅 10 May 2026
Wine estates and restaurants host special menus and outdoor dining experiences, often paired with live music and scenic views.
KWAZULU-NATAL
I Heart Market
📍 I Heart Market
📅 9 May 2026
A well-known local market offering street food, handmade goods, and a relaxed outdoor setting. It remains a popular weekend outing in Durban.
Mother’s Day coastal dining experiences
📍 Durban and North Coast
📅 10 May 2026
Restaurants along the coast offer seafood-focused menus and oceanfront dining experiences tailored for Mother’s Day celebrations.
LIMPOPO
Touching Life Music Festival
📍 Nkowankowa
📅 9 to 10 May 2026
A community-focused music festival featuring a mix of local artists and genres. The event combines live performances with a strong social and cultural atmosphere.
NATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Local markets, nightlife, and outdoor activities
📍 Major cities and towns across South Africa
📅 8 to 10 May 2026
From live music venues and DJ sets to trail runs and cycling meetups, smaller-scale events continue across the country. These experiences offer accessible ways to engage with local culture over the weekend.
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