Johannesburg, 17 September 2026: Bedfordview is taking its Saturday morning fitness outdoors this Spring, with Bedford Shopping Centre and Planet Fitness transforming the centre’s open-air parking deck into a rooftop workout space for the morning.

The Bedford Rooftop Fitness Takeover will take place on Saturday, 3 October 2026, on the open deck parking area between entrances 1 and 2, inviting the community to swap the gym floor for fresh air and a morning of movement, music and fun.

Registration will open at 7:30 AM, with the first session starting at 8:00 AM. The morning will begin with yoga, followed by Planet Fitness’s high-energy PF20 workout and a hybrid and dance session to finish things off.

There is no need to be a Planet Fitness member to join in. The event is open to people of all fitness levels, whether they exercise regularly or simply want to try something different and get moving outdoors.

Move, Win and Give Back

There will be a little extra motivation along the way, with Bedford stores contributing prizes worth a total of R20,000. Everyone taking part will also receive a goodie bag containing discount vouchers from participating stores.

The morning will have a community purpose too. Those attending are encouraged to bring pre-loved gym shoes and fitness clothing, which will be collected and donated to people in need, giving unused fitness gear a new purpose.

“Spring is such a great time to get outdoors and get moving, and we wanted to create something that people could enjoy together in a completely different part of Bedford,” says Linda Linnow, General Manager of Bedford. “You don’t have to be incredibly fit or belong to a gym. Come along, try a class, have some fun and, if you can, bring something to donate too.”

The Rooftop Fitness Takeover is free, but spaces are limited, and pre-booking is essential. The booking link and further information will be available through @bedfordcentre on social media, Bedford’s website, the centre management office and information desk.

For more information about Bedford, its stores and projects, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

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Johannesburg, 23 June 2026: Fourways Mall is set to turn up the energy this winter, giving families a strong indoor option as The Gauntlet—South Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course—moves into the mall’s centre court from 26 June to 9 July 2026.

At over 650 sqm in size, the giant inflatable park will be the first indoor activation of its kind in South Africa, bringing bouncing, climbing, crawling, sliding and racing together in one action-packed course. Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, The Gauntlet will form the centrepiece of Fourways Mall’s winter school holiday entertainment programme, giving children, teenagers, young adults and families a fresh way to burn off holiday energy.

A Giant Challenge for the Holidays

Designed for active play and friendly competition, The Gauntlet invites visitors to take on a series of inflatable challenges as they race towards the finish line. It is the kind of activity that works just as well for siblings competing against each other, friends looking for a laugh or parents brave enough to join the action.

The experience is ideal for families and groups looking for something different during the winter break, with the added advantage of being indoors and weather-proof. With limited daily capacity, advance booking is recommended. Tickets start at R 100 per person, and are now available via Howler.

More Ways to Play, Climb, Jump and Race

Beyond The Gauntlet, Fourways Mall offers an exciting line-up of holiday attractions for toddlers, children, teenagers and adults. Families can tee off at Adventure Golf, one of Johannesburg’s most established adventure golf attractions, with three themed 9-hole courses set among waterfalls, streams, caves and landscaped gardens.

For more active play, BOUNCE INC offers freestyle jumping, dodgeball, slam dunk zones, obstacle challenges, Clip ’n Climb walls and miniBOUNCE for younger children. Total Ninja Interactive brings together movement and digital gaming through interactive projections and sensors, whereas Bloc 11 offers indoor climbing and bouldering with classes and coaching.

The Fourways Mall Ster-Kinekor includes a dedicated Kids Cinema experience where blockbuster films like Minions & Monsters and Toy Story 5 will be showing. The Fun Company offers arcade games, redemption games and 10-pin bowling, while Shooters provides a social gaming environment that is family-friendly until 6 pm.

For visitors who want more speed, skills or competition, Xtreme Go Karting delivers indoor racing, and Urban Playground brings together a skate park, e-gaming, indoor soccer and other recreational activities.

An All-In-One Holiday Outing

With so many options under one roof, families can combine The Gauntlet with lunch, a movie, bowling, go-karting, climbing or arcade games to create a full school holiday outing. Family-friendly dining options include Spur and Panarottis, both offering dedicated children’s play areas.

Fourways Mall’s longer trading hours are designed to make holiday outings more convenient, with most stores operating from 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Saturday, and from 9 am to 7 pm on Sundays and public holidays. Visitors also benefit from free parking after 5pm daily.

For more information, visit fourwaysmall.com or follow the mall on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X for the latest updates.

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Johannesburg, 12 June 2026: During the winter school holidays, Mall of Africa will turn up the energy with The Goal Zone, Winter’s Ultimate Playoff, delivering a high-energy indoor football experience packed with fun, competition and movement to keep kids engaged, smiling and inspired by the spirit of the World Cup.

Running from Friday, 3 to Monday, 13 July in the Food Court, the immersive play experience will transform this part of the mall into an interactive soccer-themed activity zone where children, teens and even competitive parents can put their skills to the test across seven exciting challenges. Open daily from 10 am to 8 pm, tickets will be available at the activation area for R50 per participant.

Visitors will stand a chance to win incredible prizes, including 1 of 5 official Bafana Bafana jerseys, 5 x R1 000 Studio 88 vouchers and spot prizes from EL&N, Honor, Lego, McDonalds, New Balance, Spur, Totalsports and Toy Kingdom. The first 100 participants through The Goal Zone will have the opportunity to customise a Krispy Kreme Original glazed doughnut.

Winter Holiday Fun with a Competitive Twist

Created as a high-energy school holiday attraction, The Goal Zone activities will include a mix of football skills, speed, coordination and playful rivalry, giving young fans the chance to celebrate the game, test their skills and soak up the excitement of the World Cup.

Whether visitors are showing off fancy footwork or simply trying something new, the experience is designed to entertain a wide range of ages, with selected challenges designed for the whole family to enjoy, while bringing a lively, sporty atmosphere to the winter break.

Visitors will be able to test their power in Speed Kick, take aim in Beat the Keeper, sharpen reaction times at the Reflex Wall, or put their accuracy to the test in Through the Hoops. Those looking for something a little different will be able to try their hand at Footgolf, challenge friends and family in Sit Down Soccer, or see how long they can keep the ball in the air during Keepie Uppies.

Created to mimic an indoor astroturf-style arena complete with playful sporting touches, The Goal Zone will bring all the excitement of a match-day atmosphere into a fun, family-friendly holiday experience.

A School Holiday Outing With Extra Energy

As cooler weather settles in, The Goal Zone will offer families an indoor activity that encourages children to stay active while adding something different to the school holiday calendar. Positioned in the heart of the mall, the football experience will also make it easy for families to pair the experience with lunch, shopping or a full day out.

Whether it is siblings competing for bragging rights, friends challenging one another to beat the leaderboard or parents quietly proving they still have a winning kick, The Goal Zone is all about getting involved, having fun and making winter holiday memories.

The Goal Zone takes place from 3 to 13 July 2026 at the Mall of Africa Food Court. Entry tickets cost R50 per participant and are sold on-site. For ongoing updates, store news and event information, follow Mall of Africa on Instagram: @_themallofafrica or visit the mall’s website: mallofafrica.co.za.

The post Mall of Africa Launches The Goal Zone Winter Activation 2026 appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 28 April 2026: Bello, Joburg. The Minions are heading your way, and they’re not arriving quietly. Expect their usual dose of playful chaos to follow close behind.

As excitement builds for Minions & Monsters, set to hit cinemas nationwide on Friday, 26 June 2026, two of the franchise’s cheekiest characters, Henry and James, are set to make a live appearance. Fans can catch them at The Magical Marble Family Fest on 9 and 10 May at James & Ethel Gray Park.

This marks their debut appearance in Gauteng, giving fans an early taste of the fun ahead. Expect plenty of laughs, a little chaos and the kind of cheeky playfulness that only the Minions can get away with.

The pair will be based at the Minions hangout near the amazing Magical Marble Family Fest double-decker carousel, where festivalgoers can meet them between 11 AM – 6 PM on both days. It is a chance to step into their world for a moment, snap a photo and enjoy the playful spirit they are known for. The first day of the festival is already sold out, and with Henry and James in the mix, the weekend promises to be jam-packed with magical mischief.

Taking the Fun Across the Country

After their Johannesburg appearance, Henry and James will embark on a nationwide tour from Friday, 26 June onwards, bringing the Minions experience to malls and cinemas around South Africa.

In Gauteng, they will visit Eastgate, Mall of Africa, Menlyn Park, The Glen, The Grove and The Zone @ Rosebank. The Western Cape will see appearances at Blue Route, Canal Walk, Somerset Mall, Tyger Valley and V & A Waterfront. In KwaZulu-Natal, fans can catch them at Cornubia, Gateway, Galleria and Pavilion, while Mpumalanga will host them at Ilanga Mall, and Limpopo at Mall of the North.

Minions & Monsters continues the story of the world’s most loveable troublemakers, taking them on a new adventure filled with big personalities and unexpected twists. What begins as a quest for movie stardom quickly unravels into full-blown chaos, as the Minions accidentally unleash a wave of monsters onto the world. It is then up to them to pull together, face the mayhem they have created and attempt to save the day in their own wonderfully unpredictable way.

Watch the official trailer for Minions & Monsters here:

From The Magical Marble Family Fest to the big screen, Henry and James are ready to bring their unmistakable brand of fun to fans across the country.

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Johannesburg, 4 March 2026: After a resounding success last year, The Succulent Show will return to Bedford shopping centre on Saturday, 28 and Sunday, 29 March 2026. The show offers families and plant lovers a relaxed weekend surrounded by succulents and cacti, each chosen for their beauty, character and resilience.

Hosted in collaboration with the Johannesburg Succulent Society, the show reflects the shared passion for cultivating knowledge, encouraging conservation and celebrating South Africa’s rich indigenous plant life. Visitors are invited to wander, pause and engage with plants that thrive quietly yet confidently, often in the most unexpected spaces.

Plants With Personality

The show will take place on the centre’s lower level, close to Pick n Pay. From sculptural succulents to interesting cacti, the displays will showcase the natural diversity of these living collections.

Each section has been thoughtfully curated to spark ideas and show how greenery can bring calm, texture and colour into everyday environments, whether in a small apartment or a larger home.

Shared knowledge and Thoughtful Finds

Throughout the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with knowledgeable growers and succulent specialists, asking questions, exchanging ideas, and picking up practical advice on plant care and cultivation. With experts on hand throughout the show, there will be plenty of scope to learn more about caring for succulents, discover new growing techniques, and deepen an appreciation for these remarkable plants through informal conversations and shared experience. A selection of local suppliers will also be available, offering a wide variety of succulents for those looking to take a piece of the show home with them.

The Succulent Show will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, 28 March and from 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday, 29 March. Entrance is free. With ticketless parking available, Bedford Shopping Centre once again offers a welcoming setting for a show that continues to grow in popularity. The centre is also home to numerous dining and entertainment offerings, making it the perfect spot for a family day out.

For more information about the Bedford Succulent Show, visit Bedford Shopping Centre’s website or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

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Johannesburg, 26 November 2025: Design Quarter, Fourways’ leading design and lifestyle destination, invites shoppers to step into a festive world of charm and craftsmanship as the much-loved Vintage Décor and Gift Show returns with a festive edition on Saturday, 6 and Sunday, 7 December. The popular market, renowned for its curation of homeware, collectables and artisanal finds, will transform the centre court into a celebration of creativity, community and festive splendour.

A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Creativity

From bespoke home décor and timeless fashion to handcrafted jewellery, gourmet deli favourites and festive bakes, every table will tell a story of South African talent. The market brings together a thoughtfully curated mix of SMMEs, artisans and designers whose work reflects the spirit of quality and originality. Guests will be able to browse an array of unique gifts, fresh flowers, Christmas ornaments and accessories, all beautifully presented in the sophisticated surroundings of Design Quarter.

Festive Ambience and Seasonal Experiences

To complete the experience, shoppers will get to enjoy a hand-picked selection of food and drink offerings, festive music and carols, amidst a joyful ambience that captures the magic of the season. A dedicated gift-wrapping station will add an extra touch of convenience, while the atmosphere of warmth and community makes it an outing to remember.

Design Quarter, newly revamped in 2023, continues to redefine the retail experience by combining design, dining and lifestyle in one refined destination. With its festive market now a seasonal highlight, visitors can look forward to two days of indulgence, inspiration and celebration.

For stall enquiries, contact 063 237 0373. For more information about Design Quarter and its retailers, visit the mall’s website at designquarter.co.za.

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Johannesburg, 27 October 2025: Melrose Arch invites Joburgers to step into a night of pure enchantment with the All White Christmas Classics on the Square live concert on Saturday, 15 November 2025 at 6 PM. The majestic sounds of The Chamber Orchestra of Johannesburg, conducted by Kutlwano Masote, will intertwine with the celebrated beats of DJ Courtnaé Paul, against the backdrop of dazzling Christmas lights.

An Orchestral Celebration of Christmas

The evening will showcase a repertoire of cherished festive classics together with beloved, well-known hits, performed by a world-class orchestra and talented vocalists, capturing the warmth and joy of the season. Each note and harmony is carefully curated to evoke the spirit of Christmas, offering guests an immersive musical experience in a setting that sparkles with sophistication with festive cheer.

Tickets are available at R300 per person and can be purchased online at melrosearch.co.za. The performance is approximately 2 hours long, creating the perfect way to spend an evening of elegance in one of the city’s most distinctive settings.

Surrounded by some of Johannesburg’s most loved restaurants, The Melrose Arch Square provides the ideal setting for this debut concert. Visitors will have easy access to book to enjoy the flavours of Istanbul Kebab, Mr George, Ocean Basket, Aduna Bistro, Sebule Grill and Cellar, Cuisino and Parreirinha Restaurante, before or after the performance.

The All White Christmas Classics on the Square is presented in collaboration with Greendale House Palliative and Hospice Care non-profit organisation. Greendale plays a vital role in enabling families to care for their loved ones with dignity, reducing the pressure on public health systems and creating networks of compassion and support. This collaboration is an extension of Melrose Arch’s commitment to achieving sustainable social impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen families and communities.

Magical Moments Await at Melrose Arch

The All White Christmas Classics show forms part of Melrose Arch’s festive programme, themed “Magical moments await”, and that is exactly what can be expected. The precinct will come alive with seasonal energy, from twinkling lights to family fun, to carefully curated performances that celebrate the artistry and richness of the holiday season.

The Drakensberg Boys Choir will perform carols on 16 November at The Venue, Melrose Arch, while the Jeppe Pipe Band takes to the streets on 5 December at 7 PM. With its mix of restaurants, retail and entertainment, supported by excellent security and easy ticketless parking via Parket, the precinct remains a leading choice for visitors seeking world-class festive experiences in Johannesburg.

For more information on Melrose Arch and its activations, visit melrosearch.co.za or follow @MelroseArch on social media.

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Johannesburg, 25 September 2025: Bedford Centre is introducing an exciting new addition to Johannesburg’s social calendar with the launch of the Bedford Sunset Market. Created in collaboration with The Urban Markets, the market will debut on Friday, 10 October 2025, from 16:00 to 21:00 on the open deck parking at entrance 2.

The Bedford Sunset Market is set to transform the centre into an after-hours destination, blending shopping and dining into a curated evening that highlights community, creativity and culture. To set the mood, live entertainment will feature throughout the evening, with acoustic musical performances and DJs.

A Collaboration with The Urban Markets

With nearly 20 years of experience, The Urban Markets are known and loved for curating distinctive, family-oriented events in shopping centres, residential estates and unique venues. Their markets have become synonymous with supporting local businesses while creating memorable experiences that bring people together.

Visitors to the Bedford Sunset Market can look forward to a carefully selected line-up of food, craft and entertainment. Artisanal food stalls will showcase gourmet street eats, speciality treats and food trucks, while craft and boutique vendors will offer handmade products, fashion pop-ups, home décor and exclusive local brands.

An Evening Under the Stars

The Bedford Sunset Market is designed as a gathering point for families and friends. With inviting seating areas, delicious street food and a line-up of entertainment, in addition to delightful shopping, the market promises the chance to unwind, socialise and enjoy a vibrant evening atmosphere.

The launch event marks the beginning of a new tradition for Bedford, bringing fresh energy to the Bedfordview social scene and reinforcing the centre’s role as a hub for both lifestyle and leisure.

For more information about the Bedford Sunset Market, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com  or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

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Johannesburg, 28 August 2025: This September, CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA is bringing the energy once again to Johannesburg with a high-impact Cyclethon in support of children and teenagers who have been diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder in South Africa.

The event will take place on Sunday, 7 September 2025 at Melrose Arch, proudly hosted by Bidfood. This initiative aims to drive awareness, raise vital funds, and rally communities to take action, together.

United by Purpose

Childhood cancer remains one of the top causes of disease-related death in children worldwide. In South Africa, many young patients face challenges, from late diagnoses to limited access to care. CHOC has been at the forefront of supporting these children, teenagers and their families through psychosocial services, accommodation, nutrition, transport, and more.

This year’s Johannesburg Cyclethon is all about coming together as a community, pedalling with purpose, and showing these families that they are never alone.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, 7 September 2025
• Time: 08h00 – 13h00 (1-hour slots)
• Venue: Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
• Bookings: www.choc.org.za/events

Hedley Lewis, CHOC CEO, shares:

“This is more than just an event, it’s a movement of awareness and action. An hour on a bike might challenge you, but it’s nothing compared to the strength children and teenagers show every day as they go through their journey. We’re excited to bring the Cyclethon spirit to Johannesburg once again, uniting communities in support of these brave young fighters.”

Bidfood South Africa adds:

“We count ourselves privileged to be in a position to partner with CHOC for this year’s Cyclethon. We eagerly anticipate sharing these Cyclethon experiences with our customers, the Bidfood family, and friends of both Bidfood and CHOC.” Bidfood – Where foodservice shops!

Melrose Arch comments:

“At Melrose Arch, we believe that true impact comes from creating change that lasts. Partnering with CHOC for the Cyclethon allows us to stand alongside families facing their toughest battles while contributing to stronger, healthier communities. When we come together with purpose, we not only raise awareness, we also create hope, resilience, and the chance for a brighter tomorrow,” shared Khanyi Moyo, marketing manager at Melrose Arch.

We are also incredibly grateful to Virgin Active South Africa for powering this year’s event and to all sponsors who make this day of courage, connection, and community possible.

Proudly hosted by Bidfood | Powered by Virgin Active

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Johannesburg 26 August 2025: Melrose Arch, Johannesburg’s most prestigious lifestyle precinct, will host the first-ever All White Classics on the Square on Saturday, 13 September 2025. This unique performance blends timeless classical music with contemporary energy, bringing together The Chamber Orchestra of Johannesburg, conducted by Kutlwano Masote, and celebrated DJ, Courtnaé Paul. With the square set to be adorned in white décor, attendees are encouraged to wear white to the occasion to complete the picture.

A fusion of classical and contemporary sounds

The concert will be staged on The Square at Melrose Arch, one of the most characterful corners of the precinct, known for its mosaic tiles, cobblestone setting and vibrant dining scene. Audiences can expect two captivating sets. The first, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, will feature soloists Bonolo Kgaile, Pendo Masote and Jonathan Mayer. The second, DJ vs Maestro, is a creative play-off between Courtnae Paul and The Chamber Orchestra of Johannesburg, showcasing the dynamic possibilities when classical music and modern beats meet.

Tickets are available at R300 per person and can be purchased online at melrosearch.co.za. The performance will run from 2 pm to 4 pm, creating a spring afternoon of cultural celebration in one of the city’s most distinctive settings.

Surrounded by some of Johannesburg’s most loved restaurants, The Square provides the ideal setting for this debut concert. Visitors will have easy access to book to enjoy the flavours of Istanbul Kebab, Mr George, Ocean Basket, Aduna Bistro or Sebule Grill and Celler before or after the performance.

Commitment to community impact

All White Classics on the Square is presented in collaboration with Greendale House Palliative and Hospice Care as the CSI partner. This collaboration is an extension of Melrose Arch’s commitment to achieving sustainable social impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen families and communities. Greendale plays a vital role in enabling families to care for their loved ones with dignity, reducing the pressure on public health systems and creating networks of compassion and support.

Spring Playground for children

Adding to the weekend’s attractions, Melrose Arch will host a Spring Playground on the Piazza from 13 to 14 September. Open from 10 am to 4 pm, the playground will feature obstacle courses, a jumping castle, giant board games, a toddler area, face painting and Clamber Club entertainers leading group activities. For children over five years old, a trampoline bungee will also be available, with a maximum weight of 80 kg. Entry is R60 per hour or R120 for unlimited play. Tickets can be booked at the playground.

A season to enjoy at Melrose Arch

From the elegance of All White Classics on the Square to the lively atmosphere of the Spring Playground, Melrose Arch continues to offer experiences that combine culture, leisure and community. With its mix of restaurants, retail and entertainment, supported by excellent security and easy ticketless parking via Parket, the precinct remains a leading choice for visitors seeking world-class experiences in Johannesburg.

For more information on Melrose Arch and its activations, visit melrosearch.co.za or follow @MelroseArch on social media.

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