Celebrate Mother’s Day with Music and Wildlife at Johannesburg Zoo

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The City of Joburg is hosting a special Mother’s Day event on Sunday at the 122-year-old Johannesburg Zoo, featuring ten artists and live performances.

Attendees can enjoy music surrounded by the Big 5 and over 300 species, providing a unique experience for families.

This year’s Mother’s Day Concert offers a diverse musical journey featuring soulful melodies, upbeat pop, Kasi soul, and orchestral brilliance, reflecting the vibrancy of Joburg.

Thanduxolo Mendrew, managing director of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, emphasized that the event is a cultural moment showcasing the diversity, energy, and spirit of Johannesburg and its people.

Ami Faku is known for her soulful and powerful music, while The Soil offers authentic Kasi soul harmonies.

Matthew Mole brings feel-good indie-pop energy, and LaSauce adds contemporary urban flair. Chubby Cheeks is a crowd favorite, with Bongi Archi showcasing her dynamic talents.

Phoebe Mxgagi presents a fresh sound, and Giselle Niemand attracts a youthful pop audience. Richard Cock with the Phoenix Orchestra delivers classical excellence for refined listeners.

“Together, these artists create a multi-genre, multi-generational lineup that speaks to the full spectrum of Joburg residents—young and old; families and friends; and music lovers across all tastes.

“Set within one of the few urban zoos in the world offering a Big 5 experience, the Johannesburg Zoo provides a backdrop that is both breathtaking and uniquely local.

“Guests can enjoy world-class live music while surrounded by nature, something that very few cities globally can offer,” he outlined.

Mendrew encouraged visitors to arrive early to experience wildlife encounters, including the Big 5, and to explore the Animals of the Amazon exhibit, which features a rare freshwater walk-through aquarium.

Mother’s Day gift

The zoo also offers green picnic spaces for relaxation under its rich tree canopy. Guided heritage tours of the zoo will also be available in three 45-minute sessions.

He added, “We encourage concertgoers to consider buying an adopt-an-animal package as a Mother’s Day gift. Packages include a personalized adoption certificate, animal photograph, species information, free zoo entry vouchers, and a cap with selected packages.

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“Adding to the experience is a vibrant SMME marketplace, where young entrepreneurs and creatives will showcase their arts, crafts, and unique products.

“This platform supports local economic growth while allowing attendees to discover and purchase meaningful, locally made gifts for moms.”

In the true spirit of Joburg, the event offers accessible pricing: R150 for adults and R80 for children (ages 3–12) and pensioners. Tickets can be purchased through Webtickets or at the gate.

Mendrew invited city residents to celebrate mothers, showcase local talent, and appreciate urban green spaces on Mother’s Day, emphasizing the importance of showing up together.