Brakpan, South Africa — May 2026 — This May, Carnival City transforms into a multi-stage celebration of endurance, sound, and storytelling — where runners chase milestones and music lovers chase moments.
From the final Comrades Marathon qualifier in the East Rand to a curated lineup of live performances spanning R&B, rock, and soul, the month is designed to bring people together through movement, memory, and music.
The Starting Line: A Marathon of Determination
Kicking off the month on Friday, 1 May 2026, the Carnival City Marathon — sponsored by MNS Attorneys — sets the tone with a powerful display of endurance and community spirit.
Organised by the Mamempe Striders, this highly anticipated race is more than a qualifier for the legendary Comrades Marathon. It is a gathering of athletes from across the country, united by discipline, ambition, and the pursuit of personal bests.
With distances ranging from 5km to 42km, the marathon caters to everyone — from first-time runners to seasoned competitors preparing for one of the world’s most iconic races.
Participants can expect:
- Scenic, well-marked routes
- Hydration stations and on-route support
- Entertainment and refreshments at the finish
- A vibrant atmosphere built on unity and achievement
This is where the month begins — with purpose, pace, and pride.
Smooth Sounds and Soulful Nostalgia
On Saturday, 9 May 2026, the energy shifts indoors as Bongane Sax takes centre stage with Bongane Sax Presents: Sweet Love at the Mardi Gras Theatre.
This is not just a performance — it’s a musical time capsule.
Through expressive saxophone arrangements, Bongane Sax reimagines timeless R&B classics originally popularised by artists like Tamia and Brandy. Expect instrumental renditions of beloved tracks such as Sweet Love, Officially Missing You, and Unbreak My Heart — delivered with elegance, emotion, and precision.
Set in an intimate theatre space, the evening promises a blend of nostalgia and live artistry that lingers long after the final note.
Rock Royalty Takes the Stage
The volume rises on Friday, 29 May 2026, as Klankfaktor storms into the Big Top Arena with headline acts Francois van Coke and Jack Parow.
Known for his role as frontman of Fokofpolisiekar and Van Coke Kartel, Francois van Coke brings a legacy of raw energy and commanding stage presence. Alongside Jack Parow’s unmistakable style, the duo promises a high-impact live rock experience built for big sound and unforgettable crowd moments.
With both standing and seated options, the arena is designed to deliver intensity — whether you’re in the front row or taking it all in from a distance.
A Soulful Finale with Zama Jobe
Closing out the month on Saturday, 30 May 2026, Zama Jobe returns to the stage for an intimate live performance at the Mardi Gras Theatre.
Celebrated for her rich vocals and heartfelt storytelling, Zama Jobe offers a night that feels personal — a close-up journey through the songs that have defined her career.
In a warm, theatre setting, audiences are invited to reconnect with a voice that has long held a special place in South African music — delivering a performance that is both reflective and deeply moving.
One Destination, Endless Experiences
What makes Carnival City stand out this May is its ability to move seamlessly between worlds — from the physical intensity of marathon running to the emotional depth of live music.
Each event is distinct, yet connected by a shared purpose: to create moments that bring people together.
Whether you’re chasing a finish line, reliving classic hits, headbanging to rock anthems, or soaking in soulful storytelling — this is where May comes alive.
Event Details at a Glance
Carnival City Marathon (Comrades Qualifier)
- Date: Friday, 1 May 2026
- Time: 06h00
- Cost: R80 via Peaktiming
- Venue: Sports Grounds, Carnival City
Bongane Sax Presents: Sweet Love
- Date: Saturday, 9 May 2026
- Time: Doors 18h00 | Show 19h00
- Cost: R400 via Webtickets
- Venue: Mardi Gras Theatre
- Restriction: No under 18s
Klankfaktor ft. Francois van Coke & Jack Parow
- Date: Friday, 29 May 2026
- Time: 19h00
- Cost: R225 via Webtickets
- Venue: Big Top Arena
- Restriction: No under 18s
Intimate Night with Zama Jobe
- Date: Saturday, 30 May 2026
- Time: Doors 18h00 | Show 19h00
- Cost: R400 via Webtickets
- Venue: Mardi Gras Theatre
- Restriction: No under 18s
