How to celebrate Freedom Day in Joburg

Marking South Africa's first democratic elections in 1994, the Freedom Day public holiday every April 27 celebrates the country's successful fight for freedom and democracy. This year's Freedom Day falls on a Monday – long weekend alert! – and signifies 32 years of democracy.

If you've decided to spend the long weekend in Joburg, there's no shortage of events, tours, festivals and more to enjoy this milestone. Here's our guide to some of the best. For a full list of all that's happening head to our weekly events guide.

Authentic experiences

Explore freedom through art with the monthly Art and Justice Tour at the Constitutional Court.
Photo: Constitutional Court Art Collection

Thu, Apr 23 – Sun, Apr 26 – Experience 12 languages, 12 stories, 12 minutes each in a high-energy theatre takeover at the 12/12 Live Arts Festival by POPArt at Space.com theatre at Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein.

Sat, Apr 25 – Step into over 30 years of democracy through bold, moving artworks at the Art and Justice Tour at the Constitutional Court at Constitution Hill, Braamfontein.

Mon, Apr 27 – Celebrate Freedom Day with free entry to the Apartheid Museum, Ormonde, and free entry to Constitution Hill, a powerful journey through South Africa’s 20th-century history and the fight for liberation.

Markets and outdoors

It's all about creativity at KAMERS/Makers. Photo: KAMERS/Makers via Instagram.

Fri, Apr 24 – Street food, live music and sugar-dusted fun at the Bedfordview Night Market at Bedfordview Country Club.

Sun, Apr 26 – It's an endless summer with fresh, small-batch wines, sunshine and good company at Wine Forty Four at 44 Stanley, Milpark.

Mon, Apr 27 – Ride with the Homies x Girlies Freedom Day Ride – a relaxed social cycle through Joburg with Girls On Bikes and Banditz Bicycle Club, starting at 44 Stanley.

Mon, Apr 27 – Sun, May 3 – Discover a kaleidoscope of South African creativity at KAMERS/Makers at St David's Marist, Inanda, where fashion, homeware, art and design come alive under one stylish roof.

For other markets in the city, check out our guide to Joburg's best markets.

Get into your groove

Enjoy the Freedom Day long weekend with some house grooves at Deep In The City Festival.
Photo: Deep In The City Festival via Instagram.

Wed, 22 – Tue, 28 Apr – Explore Joburg's alternative nightlife, music and architecture at Groove Biennale III, with ballroom, workshops, panels and showcases across the city.

Sat, Apr 25 – Experience the genre-blurring, immersive sounds of The Brother Moves On as they debut new music from their Flora trilogy at Jozi Gold Brewing Company.

Sat, Apr 25 – Celebrate freedom, fun and fabulous energy at Same Sex Saturday – a night of music, self-expression and community vibes by Other Village People at The Reef Hotel, Marshalltown.

Sun, Apr 26 – Reimagine Freedom Day with music, wellness, comedy and community healing at Sober Fest 2026, taking over Soweto Theatre for a full day of sober celebration, culture and connection.

Sun, Apr 26 – There's house music culture and immersive sound at Deep in the City Festival, transforming Montecasino into a global-inspired dancefloor powered by SA’s top DJs.