Discover vibrant events in South Africa this January 2025, showcasing cultural diversity and artistic brilliance. Celebrate the new year!
South Africa ushers in the new year with a dynamic line-up of events that reflect its cultural diversity, artistic flair, and natural beauty. From music festivals, sports, cultural food experiences, outdoor activities, and economic updates, January 2025 promises an exciting start to the year. Here’s your guide to everything happening across the country.
Table of Contents
January 2025 Events in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
- Ocean View Scooters Summer Ride Experience
- Dates: 19 Nov 2024 – 11 Jan 2025
- Location: Port Elizabeth Beachfront
- Description: Enjoy e-scooter rides along the scenic beachfront. This eco-friendly activity is perfect for families, friends, and visitors seeking fun in the sun.
- Christmas Luminosity Port Elizabeth 2024
- Dates: 05 Dec 2024 – 15 Jan 2025
- Location: Boardwalk Mall, Sun Park
- Description: A dazzling festive light display featuring magical illuminations and festive cheer. Packages available to suit every budget.
- Playland at Kingsbeach
- Dates: 06 Dec 2024 – 12 Jan 2025
- Location: Kings Beach, Port Elizabeth
- Description: An amusement park with thrilling rides and fun for all ages. Perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
- SAAF Museum PE – Festive Season
- Dates: 09 Dec 2024 – 13 Jan 2025
- Location: SAAF Museum, Port Elizabeth
- Description: Explore the rich history of South African aviation. Open to the public with engaging exhibits and artefacts.
- Glow Festival
- Dates: 12 Dec 2024 – 06 Jan 2025
- Location: Boardwalk Mall, Sun Park
- Description: A mesmerizing festival of lights returning for the 2024-2025 season, featuring captivating displays and holiday charm.
- Lilly Slaptsilli presents I’m Gagging
- Date: 04 Jan 2025
- Location: Centrestage at Baywest Mall
- Description: A hilarious stand-up comedy drag show by Lilly Slaptsilli, blending sharp wit, sassy storytelling, and laugh-out-loud moments.
- Deejays Social: NMBay DJ Appreciation Event 2025
- Date: 04 Jan 2025
- Location: Nelson Mandela Bay (venue TBC)
- Description: Celebrate the local DJ community with music, camaraderie, and good vibes at this third annual event.
- Back to School – Pizza & Milkshake
- Dates: 06 Jan 2025 – 14 Jan 2025
- Location: The Beach Hotel, Port Elizabeth
- Description: Treat yourself to a pizza and milkshake combo as the holidays wind down, available daily from 12 PM to 8 PM.
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs MI Cape Town (Cricket)
- Date: 09 Jan 2025
- Location: St. George’s Park Cricket Ground
- Description: Experience the excitement of T20 cricket as Sunrisers Eastern Cape takes on MI Cape Town in a thrilling match.
- aQuellé Ocean Racing Series
- Date: 12 Jan 2025
- Location: Hobie Beach, Port Elizabeth
- Description: Africa’s largest family beach event offers races for all ages and fitness levels in a friendly, safe atmosphere.
- Chippa United vs Sekhukhune United (Soccer)
- Date: 13 Jan 2025
- Location: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
- Description: PSL action as Chippa United hosts Sekhukhune United in this mid-season clash.
- Land Rover Display
- Date: 17 Jan 2025
- Location: TBC, Port Elizabeth
- Description: A showcase of classic and modern Land Rovers, from Defenders to Range Rovers. Enjoy food, drinks, and a licensed bar.
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Durban’s Super Giants (Cricket)
- Date: 19 Jan 2025
- Location: St. George’s Park Cricket Ground
- Description: Witness world-class cricket under balmy summer skies as the Sunrisers take on the Durban Super Giants.
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Pretoria Capitals (Cricket)
- Date: 22 Jan 2025
- Location: St. George’s Park Cricket Ground
- Description: Another action-packed cricket match in the summer T20 series.
- Sunrisers Eastern Cape vs Joburg Super Kings (Cricket)
- Date: 24 Jan 2025
- Location: St. George’s Park Cricket Ground
- Description: Enjoy high-energy cricket and cheer for the Sunrisers in their match against the Joburg Super Kings.
- Elite Auto Expo
- Date: 25 Jan 2025
- Location: Boardwalk Sun Park, Port Elizabeth
- Description: A must-attend event for car enthusiasts, showcasing stunning modified vehicles, food stalls, and apparel.
- Chippa United vs Kaizer Chiefs (Soccer)
- Date: 27 Jan 2025
- Location: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
- Description: A highly anticipated match as Chippa United takes on Kaizer Chiefs. Expect excitement and roaring fans!
For Additional Info:
- Computicket – Book tickets for various events in January 2025.
- TicketPro – Your portal for sports and entertainment bookings.
- Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism – Stay updated with local event listings.
- PSL Official Website – Soccer schedules and team updates.
January 2025 Events in Cape Town
- Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse)
- Date: January 1
- Location: Streets of Cape Town
- Description: A vibrant parade where minstrel troupes in colorful costumes take to the streets with music and dance. This centuries-old tradition is a key part of Cape Town’s cultural heritage.
- Milk & Cookies Festival Featuring Kaytranada
- Date: January 11
- Location: Cape Town
- Description: Kaytranada headlines this exciting festival, known for its electric atmosphere and vibrant crowd, complemented by a diverse selection of food and live music.
- Summer Sunset Concerts with Mango Groove
- Date: January 12
- Location: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town
- Description: Enjoy the iconic Mango Groove in an intimate outdoor concert set in Cape Town’s lush botanical gardens.
- Gatsby: A Cirque Extravaganza
- Date: Runs until January 11
- Location: Cape Town
- Description: A mesmerizing acrobatic show inspired by The Great Gatsby, combining storytelling with stunning visuals.
- Red Riding Hood
- Dates: January 8–12
- Location: Cape Town
- Description: A whimsical family adaptation of the classic fairy tale Red Riding Hood.
- Cassi Namoda Art Exhibition
- Date: Until January 20
- Location: Norval Foundation, Cape Town
- Description: This exhibition explores African identity and contemporary life through the works of Cassi Namoda.
- L’Ormarins King’s Plate 2025
- Date: January 4
- Location: Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town
- Description: One of South Africa’s premier horse racing events, celebrated with style, fashion, and an exciting race day atmosphere.
- Goldfish Submerged Party
- Date: January 4
- Location: Cabo Beach Club
- Description: Electronic duo Goldfish returns to Cape Town for a night of high-energy performances, along with other top DJs.
- Riaad Moosa – What’s the Point?
- Dates: January 7–18
- Location: Baxter Theatre, Cape Town
- Description: Comedian Riaad Moosa brings his comedic take on life’s biggest questions to the stage, blending humour with philosophical reflections.
- The Commons Fest
- Dates: January 7–18
- Location: The Commons, Muizenberg
- Description: A celebration of arts and culture, featuring poetry, music, film, and fine dining over ten vibrant days.
- 100% Retro – The Party
- Date: January 11
- Location: GrandWest Grand Arena
- Description: A nostalgic night featuring 90s and 2000s hits, including performances by Right Said Fred and other iconic artists.
- Investec Champions Cup – DHL Stormers vs Sale Sharks
- Date: January 11
- Location: DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Description: A thrilling rugby match between the DHL Stormers and Sale Sharks, part of the prestigious Investec Champions Cup.
- Breaking Masters
- Date: January 18
- Location: V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre, Cape Town
- Description: The last qualifier before the World Final in Tokyo, this event features intense breakdancing battles with top international b-boys and b-girls.
- Father Love
- Date: January 22
- Location: Artscape Opera House
- Description: A heartfelt tribute concert to Omar ‘Boeta Maan’ Adams, featuring Loukmaan and Emo Adams along with guest performances.
- Calabash 2025 (Robbie Williams and Green Day Concerts)
- Dates: January 22–23
- Location: DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Description: Two unforgettable nights of music, with Robbie Williams on January 22 and Green Day on January 23, along with local performers.
- Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
- Dates: January 24–25
- Location: Maynardville, Wynberg
- Description: Enjoy classical masterpieces as the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra presents Stormy Weather – A Symphonic Weather Report.
- The Cape Town Met
- Date: January 25
- Location: Kenilworth Racecourse, Cape Town
- Description: South Africa’s richest horse race, featuring couture, cocktails, and exhilarating racing action.
- Candlelight Concert – A Tribute to Coldplay on Piano
- Date: January 25
- Location: Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium, Cape Town
- Description: A magical live piano performance of Coldplay’s iconic songs under the glow of candlelight.
- Ndlovu Youth Choir Performances
- Dates: January 30–31
- Location: Artscape Opera House
- Description: The Ndlovu Youth Choir brings a powerful performance, showcasing new music and an inspiring tribute to South Africa’s legends.
- Cape Town Tens
- Dates: January 31–February 1
- Location: Green Point Common Fields
- Description: A fun-filled event with multiple sports, music stages, and a festive atmosphere, featuring rugby, netball, and much more.
For Additional Info:
January 2025 Events in Johannesburg
- Milk & Cookies Festival Featuring Kaytranada
- Date: Saturday, January 11
- Location: Old Park Station, Newtown, Johannesburg
- Description: Grammy-winning DJ Kaytranada headlines the Milk & Cookies Festival with electrifying music and a vibrant festival atmosphere.
- Disney’s “The Magic Box”
- Date: Runs until January 5
- Location: Teatro Montecasino, Fourways, Johannesburg
- Description: A family-friendly stage musical featuring beloved Disney songs.
- Joburg Super Kings vs. Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SA20 Cricket)
- Date: January 7, 2025
- Time: 17:30 local time
- Location: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Joburg Super Kings vs. Pretoria Capitals
- Date: January 16, 2025
- Time: 17:30 local time
- Location: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Joburg Super Kings vs. Durban’s Super Giants
- Date: January 22, 2025
- Time: 17:30 local time
- Location: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Joburg Super Kings vs. Paarl Royals
- Date: January 29, 2025
- Time: 17:30 local time
- Location: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Green Day Live at Calabash
- Date: Sunday, January 19
- Location: FNB Stadium, Nasrec, Johannesburg
- Description: Iconic American rock band Green Day performs alongside The Offspring and Fokofpolisiekar in this highly anticipated concert.
- Intimate Evening Series: Nina Simone & Miriam Makeba Tribute
- Date: Saturday, January 18
- Location: Market Theatre, Johannesburg
- Description: Celebrating two legendary women in music, this tribute features Simphiwe Dana and Abiah, honoring Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba’s legacy.
- Robbie Williams Concert
- Dates: January 25–26
- Location: SunBet Arena at Time Square Casino, Pretoria (near Johannesburg)
- Description: The British pop sensation returns to Gauteng for two solo concert dates, featuring hits from his record-breaking career.
- Keyshia Cole Live
- Date: Friday, January 24
- Location: SunBet Arena, Pretoria (near Johannesburg)
- Description: A soulful evening with Grammy-nominated singer Keyshia Cole, performing her biggest hits.
- My Fair Lady – Musical
- Date: January 23–February 23
- Location: Teatro Montecasino, Fourways, Johannesburg
- Description: A classic musical inspired by George Bernard Shaw’s “Pygmalion,” filled with timeless songs and exquisite performances.
- Premier Soccer League Matches
- Dates: Various throughout January
- Location: FNB Stadium, Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg
- Description: Top South African teams compete in thrilling Premier Soccer League matches.
- Fixtures:
- January 5: Kaizer Chiefs vs. Orlando Pirates
- January 12: Mamelodi Sundowns vs. SuperSport United
- January 19: AmaZulu FC vs. Sekhukhune United
- January 26: Kaizer Chiefs vs. Maritzburg United
- Festival of Lights
- Date: Runs until mid-January
- Location: Johannesburg Zoo
- Description: Experience the magic of stunning light displays, entertainment, and family fun in a festive setting.
- Neighbourgoods Market
- Date: Every Saturday in January
- Location: Braamfontein, Johannesburg
- Description: A vibrant weekly market featuring artisanal food, local crafts, and live entertainment.
- Outdoor Movie Nights
- Dates: Selected weekends in January
- Location: James and Ethel Gray Park, Johannesburg
- Description: Enjoy popular films under the stars in a relaxed picnic setting with family and friends.
For Additional Info:
January 2025 Events in Durban
- Durban Adult Picnic
- Date: January 4
- Location: Munies Hockey Club
- Description: A relaxing outdoor event featuring live music, food, and entertainment. Perfect for socializing and enjoying a laid-back atmosphere.
- Grey Mare’s Tail Falls Hike
- Date: January 5
- Location: Karkloof (Guided Hike)
- Description: Explore breathtaking landscapes on a guided hike followed by a picnic at Grey Mare’s Tail Falls. A great way to connect with nature.
- BollyRave Festival
- Date: January 5
- Location: Cuba Lounge BLK
- Description: A vibrant Bollywood-inspired rave combining energetic music, cultural dance, and an immersive experience for all attendees.
- Mayine Gospel Experience
- Date: January 7
- Location: Durban ICC
- Description: A spiritual and musical showcase of local gospel talent. A great event for those seeking a heartwarming musical experience.
- SA20 Cricket Match: Durban’s Super Giants vs. Pretoria Capitals
- Date: January 10
- Location: Kingsmead Stadium
- Description: Witness an exciting cricket match featuring top players in the SA20 league. A must-see for cricket fans!
- Tai Chi Saturdays
- Date: Every Saturday starting January 11
- Location: Essenwood Park
- Description: Free Tai Chi sessions focusing on wellness, mindfulness, and community engagement. Perfect for those looking to unwind and relax.
- Tree63 Concert
- Date: January 12
- Location: Suncoast Barnyard
- Description: Enjoy the internationally acclaimed Christian rock band, Tree63, live in an intimate concert setting. Ideal for fans of uplifting music.
- Cliff and The Shadows Tribute Concert
- Date: January 14
- Location: Rhumbelow Theatre
- Description: A nostalgic evening dedicated to the iconic music of Cliff Richard and The Shadows, performed live for fans of classic hits.
- SA20 Cricket Match: Durban’s Super Giants vs. Joburg Super Kings
- Date: January 14
- Location: Kingsmead Stadium
- Description: Another thrilling cricket match in the SA20 league, where top players compete for victory.
- Hollow Coves Concert
- Date: January 15
- Location: Durban Botanic Gardens
- Description: An enchanting indie-folk concert with the band Hollow Coves in a serene garden setting. Perfect for music lovers looking to relax and enjoy beautiful sounds.
- SA20 Cricket Match: Durban’s Super Giants vs. Sunrisers Eastern Cape
- Date: January 17
- Location: Kingsmead Stadium
- Description: Experience more high-energy cricket action at Kingsmead as Durban’s Super Giants face off against the Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
- Cliff and The Shadows Tribute Concert
- Date: January 17
- Location: Rhumbelow Theatre
- Description: A second performance of the nostalgic tribute to Cliff Richard and The Shadows, bringing timeless hits to the stage.
- SA20 Cricket Match: Durban’s Super Giants vs. MI Cape Town
- Date: January 21
- Location: Kingsmead Stadium
- Description: Don’t miss this exciting cricket match, where Durban’s Super Giants will battle it out with MI Cape Town.
- SA20 Cricket Match: Durban’s Super Giants vs. Paarl Royals
- Date: January 23
- Location: Kingsmead Stadium
- Description: Enjoy another electrifying cricket match as Durban’s Super Giants take on the Paarl Royals in the SA20 league.
- Vipassana Meditation Retreat
- Date: January 22–February 2
- Location: Resthaven Retreat
- Description: A spiritual retreat offering peace, relaxation, and rejuvenation through guided meditation. A perfect opportunity for those seeking inner calm.
- Gastronomy Tours at Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Date: Throughout January
- Location: Moses Mabhida Stadium
- Description: Embark on guided food and drink tours around Durban, exploring local delicacies and flavors. A must-do for food lovers!
- Aquatic Adventures at uShaka Marine World
- Date: Ongoing in January
- Location: uShaka Marine World
- Description: Enjoy a variety of water-based activities, including snorkel tours, water slides, and dolphin shows. A top attraction for family fun and adventure.
For Additional Info:
- AllEvents (General Event Listings)
- HappeningNext (Event Details)
- Songkick (Concert Tickets)
- Durban Tourism Official Website
Final Thoughts
This list highlights some of the major events happening in January 2025, but it is by no means exhaustive. Gqeberha (PE), Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban offers a vibrant and diverse range of experiences within each city for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to immerse yourself in the festivities while staying safe and respecting local guidelines. Keep an eye out for February 2025 event updates on our site to discover even more exciting opportunities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to explore!
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