Experience Green Day's historic South African debut at Calabash 2025
Green Day is set to rock the Calabash 2025 stage on Sunday, January 19.
This will be the world-renowned rock band’s first-ever performance in South Africa. They will headline the musical extravaganza, which is presented by Big Concerts and Kfm 94.5 and #947, with The Offspring as well as Fokofpolisiekar, one of South Africa's cherished rock bands, as the supporting acts.
The trio comprises vocalist and guitarist Billie Joe Armstrong, bassist and backing vocalist, Mike Dirnt, and drummer Tré Cool.
With a three-decade legacy and five Grammy wins to their name, the band are acclaimed for their hit singles like “Dookie”, “Basket Case” and “American Idiot”.
Dubbed the biggest summer concerts, the organisers promised attendees a memorable occasion.
“With infectious energy and catchy tunes, they will bring their timeless classics such as ‘Self Esteem’ and ‘Pretty Fly (for a White Guy)’ to the Calabash stage.”
In 1994, Green Day’s major-label debut “Dookie” became a breakout success, with 20 million copies being sold in the US alone.
Alongside fellow California punk bands Bad Religion, the Offspring and Rancid, among Green Day is credited with re-popularising mainstream interest in punk rock.
Before taking its current name in 1989, the band was named Blood Rage, then Sweet Children. They were part of the late 1980s/early 1990s Bay Area punk scene that emerged from the 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, California.
Meanwhile, Green Day’s headline act at Calabash 2025 comes after British pop icon Robbie Williams pulled out of the event. He will instead perform at SunBet Arena at Time Square, Pretoria next weekend.
Last year’s Calabash concert was headlined by the award-winning group, Maroon 5, along with performances by other international sensations such as Keane, Meduza, Ava Max and local talents such as Will Linley and Lloyiso.
“The next edition promises an electrifying night, etching a new chapter in South Africa's rock 'n' roll legacy,” the organisers added.
Where: FNB Stadium in Nasrec.
When: Sunday, January 19.
Cost: Tickets range from R575 to R6 250 and are available through Ticketmaster.
The Raspberry Festival
The berry picking season has officially kicked off this month and will continue until April. With this in mind Field Berry Farm in the south of Johannesburg has commenced off their Raspberry Festival.
The annual gathering will see people of all ages picking raspberries and enjoying them on the farm’s other facilities. This includes a children’s bike track and an outdoor playground.
There will also be live entertainment to enjoy as well as stalls selling delicious food and drinks.
Where: The Field Berry Farm in De Deur, Walkerville.
When: Runs until April.
Cost: Tickets cost R55 for adults and R45 for children and pensioners.
Abafa(ba)zi – Those Who Die Knowing group exhibition
Art enthusiasts are in for a treat as the “Abafa(ba)zi - Those Who Die Knowing” is running until the end of February at Joburg’s Goethe-Institut in Johannesburg.
This is a collaborative exhibition including commissioned works, artistic experiments and existing works while also featuring visual and choral art from women across Africa.
The exhibition also places a focus on transdisciplinary female artists and researchers from the continent. It is also rooted in personal and familial narratives as it underscores the pivotal role of black women in society.
Where: The Goethe-Institut in Parkwood.
When: Runs until February 28.
Cost: Free entry.
Vegan Sushi Picnics
Kickstart your Veganuary with Plotville’s Vegan Sushi Picnics, courtesy of Gourmet Hippie, hosted every Sunday this summer.
The menu features a delicious sushi board which includes fresh and colourful veggies as well as avocado, rice and all the other sushi fixings.
There are also mouthwatering vegan desserts to satisfy those with a sweet tooth along with crisp, refreshing drinks to sip on throughout the afternoon.
This is the perfect outing for a date, catch-ups with loved ones, family outings or even just a solo trip. Each week boasts a different theme.
Where: Plotville in Vastfontein, Pretoria.
When: Every Sunday in January, from noon until 6pm.
Cost: Tickets cost R250 for adults and| R150 for children under the age of 12. They are available through Quicket.