What’s on at Carnival City this May?

The month begins with the highly anticipated last Comrades Marathon qualifier in the East Rand. Sponsored by MNS Attorneys, it promises to unite runners from across South Africa in a celebration of athleticism and community spirit.

Also in May, Khuzani takes centre stage in a powerful celebration of maskandi excellence; Bongane Sax, a special evening celebrating timeless R&B; Francois van Coke and Jack Parow headline a high-impact live rock concert; and an intimate night with Zama Jobe to wrap up the month.

The highly anticipated Carnival City Marathon, sponsored by MNS Attorneys, promises to unite runners from across South Africa in a celebration of athleticism and community spirit. Taking place at the Carnival City Sports Grounds on Friday, 1 May 2026, this marathon will feature 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km races and serve as a Comrades Marathon qualifier. Organised by the Mamempe Striders, the event is set to kick off at 06h00, with runners lining up for an unforgettable day of determination and achievement.

The Carnival City Marathon is designed to cater to runners of all fitness levels, from beginners tackling the 5km route to seasoned athletes preparing for the Comrades Marathon with the 42km full marathon.

The Carnival City Marathon embodies resilience, dedication, and unity. It promises to be a day filled with fun, fitness and community spirit. Don’t miss out on this last Comrades qualifier in the East Rand.

Participants and spectators can look forward to:

·       A scenic and well-marked race route.

·       Hydration stations and support along the way.

·       Entertainment and refreshments at the sports grounds.

·       Opportunities to connect with fellow runners and the community.

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The Tamia & Brandy Sax Experience will showcase the smooth, expressive saxophone stylings of Bongane Sax as he brings some of the most loved R&B classics to life. Renowned for his soulful sound and engaging stage presence, Bongane Sax reimagines these iconic songs through beautifully crafted instrumental performances.

Audiences can look forward to saxophone interpretations of favourites such as Sweet Love, Officially Missing You, Unbreak My Heart, and other unforgettable R&B hits that defined an era.

The show promises an intimate evening of smooth saxophone, nostalgia, and unforgettable live moments in the intimate setting of the Mardi Gras Theatre.

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Klankfaktor takes over the Big Top Arena with Francois van Coke and Jack Parow as the headline act for a high-impact live rock concert. The arena will feature dedicated standing and seated areas, creating the ideal environment for fans who want to be in the heart of the action and those who prefer a seated concert experience.

As the frontman of Fokofpolisiekar and Van Coke Kartel, and one of the most influential voices in South African rock, Francois van Coke is known for his powerful vocals, raw emotion, and commanding stage presence that consistently delivers unforgettable live performances.

The show will feature a dynamic set of career-defining anthems, fan favourites, and newer material, performed at full intensity with a live band in an electric arena setting. Klankfaktor is built for big sound, high energy, and a crowd that wants to experience every moment.

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Experience an unforgettable evening with acclaimed South African singer and songwriter Zama Jobe. Celebrated for her soulful voice, heartfelt storytelling, and timeless sound, Zama Jobe continues to hold a special place in South African music.

This intimate live performance invites audiences to enjoy her music in a close-up theatre setting as she performs a selection of beloved songs and standout moments from her career in a warm and captivating atmosphere.

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