This May, Sandton is swapping boardroom banter for belly laughs as the Laugh Africa Comedy Festival takes over the Convention Centre from 2 to 4 May 2025. Expect an electric weekend of top-tier stand-up, international comedy heavyweights, sharp satire, and a festival atmosphere that celebrates the best comedic talent Africa—and the world—has to offer.
With a stacked line-up that includes everyone from Emmy-nominated US comic Deon Cole to local legends like Celeste Ntuli, Rob Van Vuuren, and Trevor Gumbi, this is one comedy event you’ll want front-row seats for. Whether you’re a die-hard stand-up fan or just in it for the Roast of Helen Zille, we’ve mapped out your full weekend—from the shows to the sundowners, the bites to the beds.
The Shows You Don’t Want to Miss
Friday, 2 May sets the tone with Laugh Africa Comedy All Stars at 18:00—an unmissable lineup featuring Griff (USA), Celeste Ntuli, and Rob Van Vuuren, hosted by the ever-charismatic Isaac Gampu. Then at 20:45, brace yourself for the Showmax Roast of Helen Zille, where no tweet, moment, or political hot take is off-limits. Expect wit, sass, and plenty of raised eyebrows.
Saturday, 3 May doubles down with Mzansi’s Finest at 18:00, a proudly local showcase featuring Eugene Khoza, Nina Hastie, Felix Hlophe, and Robby Collins. Later that night at 20:30, Laugh Africa’s International Gala takes the stage with Jam Jam the Comedian, Uganda’s Patrick Salvado, and headliner Deon Cole bringing the house down.
Sunday, 4 May closes with Laughter Unleashed at 18:00 featuring Jason Goliath, Mark Banks, and KG Mokgadi, with Kenyan MC Eric Lu Savali. The grand finale? A second helping of Deon Cole alongside Trevor Gumbi and Nonto R in a no-holds-barred closing gala, hosted by Alan Committie.
For tickets, head to www.ticketpro.co.za or www.laugh-africa.com. Shows are for ages 16 and up.
Where to Eat and Drink Before (and After) the Show
Whether you’re grabbing dinner before the 6pm set or need a nightcap after the 8:30pm gala, Sandton Central has no shortage of spots that hit the sweet spot between flavour and vibe.
Pre-Show Dining:
- Saint is the spot for those who like their wood-fired pizza served with a side of glitz. It’s great for group dinners before the show, especially if you’re after strong cocktails and big energy.
- Solo at Sandton’s MARC building delivers contemporary South African cuisine with a twist. The setting is stylish, the lighting is low, and the service is seamless—ideal for easing into your evening with a glass of wine and a standout main.
- The Greenhouse on 24 Central’s rooftop is a hidden gem offering an imaginative menu in a botanical-inspired setting. Think elevated small plates, creative cocktails, and an ambient, garden-party-meets-urban-lounge feel. It’s a conversation starter before the laughs even begin.
Post-Show Cocktails & Lounges:
- Truffles on the Park is stylish, slightly tucked away, and ideal for those post-show debriefs over a killer cocktail. Their gin selection is next level.
- Alto234, perched at the top of The Leonardo, is Africa’s highest urban bar and a worthy nightcap spot. It’s a little bougie, yes, but after three hours of hard laughing, you’ve earned it.
- Zioux
Tucked inside The MARC, Zioux is a sleek, high-energy cocktail bar that leans into playful sophistication. It’s bold, it’s a little bit wild, and it knows exactly what it’s doing. Zioux is the kind of place where a quick nightcap can easily turn into a full evening out. Perfect for post-show drinks if you’re in the mood to keep the buzz going.
Where to Stay for the Full Comedy-Weekend Experience
If you’re travelling in for the festival or just want to soak up Sandton for the weekend, a staycation might be the perfect excuse to treat yourself. Luckily, you’re spoiled for choice.
- Sandton Sun & Towers is the quintessential Sandton stay. With direct access to Sandton City, a rooftop pool and bar, and understated luxury throughout, it’s a top choice for convenience and style.
- The Maslow Hotel by Sun International brings a sleek, business-meets-leisure aesthetic. You’ll get comfortable rooms, excellent breakfasts, and a peaceful garden setting that feels like a little oasis in the city.
- The Leonardo is where you check in when you’re all about the views, the glam, and the five-star treatment. If you’re looking to turn this comedy weekend into a high-end escape, this is your spot.
Ready to Laugh?
The Laugh Africa Comedy Festival isn’t just a string of shows—it’s a full-blown cultural event. It’s a weekend for celebrating African comedy in all its wild, witty, and wonderful forms, and Sandton Central is the perfect stage. Come hungry for punchlines, bring your crew, and get ready to laugh harder than you have all year.
Whether you’re there for the satire, the storytelling, or the sheer outrageousness of it all, one thing’s certain: if you miss this, you’ll be hearing about it for months.
Laugh Africa Comedy Festival
2–4 May 2025 | Sandton Convention Centre
Tickets at www.laugh-africa.com
