Johannesburg Pride is heading back to Katherine Street in Sandton on Saturday, October 31, 2026, and it's going to be a huge deal. We're talking a full-on celebration of LGBTQIA+ visibility, equality, music, and community — running from noon all the way to midnight.
Doors open at 12:00, and march participants will be gathering throughout the afternoon. From 1:00 to 2:00 PM, there's an official Human Rights Program lined up, which includes solidarity messages and a performance of the National Anthem by Jamie Lee Sexton. Right after that, the Pride March kicks off at 2:00 PM through the Sandton CBD.
On the entertainment side, this year's lineup is stacking up to be Africa's biggest gathering of queer artists across three stages. You'll also see celebrity allies Pearl Thusi, Tamara Dey, and Ch'cco showing up, plus community favorites like DJ Tshegu, MaBoyZ aka Kagiso Mogola, Juran, and more. 5FM is also taking over with DJ Tshepi and Lula Odiba holding it down.
From noon to 6:00 PM, the Rush Cider Garden takeover brings Rush DJs and drag royalty together, including Fem Aldehyde and her crew.
This year also marks Pride's first partnership with Savanna, part of the Heineken South Africa family, along with returning corporate partners who help keep Pride free for everyone.
To meet requirements from local authorities, attendees now need to register for free through Howler. This is just to help manage attendance and keep things safe — the event itself is still completely free.
This celebration wraps up a packed Pride of Africa Month, which kicked off with the Rush party at Level 3 on October 3rd, followed by a Secret Venue experience with Carvo Lounge on October 10th.
On October 16th, the Pride of Africa Empowerment Summit launched the Pride of Africa Fellowship, opening up digital skills certification opportunities through Google and the EY Business Clinic. Applications open November 1st at www.prideofafrica.org for the 2027 intake. The Summit also featured an eye-opening Mpox research and awareness presentation from Dr. Nikita Singh of Wits RHI.
Leading up to Johannesburg Pride, The Queer Met on October 24th at Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City brought together LGBTQIA+ leaders, creatives, and allies for a premium lifestyle experience. The Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Councilor Dada Morero, delivered the keynote address.
With backing from the City, corporate partners, volunteers, and the wider community, Johannesburg Pride is doubling down on its commitment to LGBTQIA+ rights, amplifying community voices, and making sure Pride stays visible, inclusive, and free for all.
Pride of Africa is inviting everyone to hit the streets on October 31st as Sandton lights up in rainbow colors.