City Guide: The Live Music Scene in Pretoria
Pretoria is a city filled with various nightlife, day-life and all the other life(style) activities in between. In fact, what we love most about the Jacaranda City, is that while it hustles and bustles when it needs to, it can also relax and wind down. Ultimately, Pretoria is a city of heritage and culture and its live music scene is where some of the best artists show their talent. Whether you want a family-friendly vibe or a adult-only party, Pretoria has something for everyone.
Sowaar Bar
Sowaar Bar is a performance and live music venue on Atterbury Road. It has featured the best of the best, including the likes of Jack Parrow, The Black Cat Bones, Akkedis, MJ Nel and more, and promises to continue to do so. Keep in mind that tickets normally need to be purchased beforehand or at the door.
Die Bosvelder Pub & Restaurant
This proudly Afrikaans bar is known for its love of music. Die Bosvelder has an inside sitting area that reminds you of traditional pubs, whilst its lapa area outside lets you enjoy South African cuisine in the fresh air. It is family-friendly and children under twelve eat for free on Sundays. Of course, its live music scene is a huge drawing card, with Afrikaans artists such as Dozi, Die Heuwels Fantasties and Karin Hougaart being only a few whom have entertained the crowds here before.
PLTFRM Wolwespruit
PLTFRM Wolwespruit, situated in Erasmuskloof, is a nature-loving, family-friendly, peace-inducing venue that offers live entertainment and so much more. Alongside its musical scene, they offer great food and their very own wine garden, Wijntuin. Here, you can dine amongst the trees whilst sipping on a cold one and listen to live music as the kids keep themselves entertained on jungle gyms, in the sandpit or with face painting and crafts.
Priva Gastrolounge
A fine-dining experience intertwined with live music, Priva offers adults a contemporary place to make memories. As lively, jazzy and bluesy acoustic tunes drift through the air, Priva ensures a comfortable and chic gastronomic and musical experience.
Railways Café
Celebrating the magic of live music, Railways Café represents the diverse and inclusive culture of South Africa. In fact, they foster community development through their rock ‘n roll vibe with a mix of indie and blues thrown in. Their venue consists of a refurbished rail car which shows their commitment to upcycling, recycling and promoting sustainability and growth.
Café Barcelona Gigs
Located in Colbyn, Café Barcelona Gigs is where South African musicians and music-lovers unite. In addition, patrons are surrounded by Mediterranean cuisine and both indoor or outdoor chill areas.
Lucky Rodrigo
Situated in Lynnwood, Lucky Rodrigo is a restaurant and bar that adds to the nightlife in Pretoria. This pub-like venue is perfect for listening to all sorts of live music whilst sipping on a cold beer and eating a hearty meal.
Montana Family Market
The permanent flea-market-style shopping complex located in Montana, Pretoria, is a leader in the live music industry. Every weekend is filled with musical performances fit for the entire family. The Montana Family Market has a wide variety of artists in its midst and offers a chance to shop to the beat of some iconic tunes.
Padstal
Padstal is an authentically Pretoria bar that offers live music and a fully-stocked bar. With new line-ups coming out all the time, there is always something for everyone. Patrons can look forward to the likes of Appel, Robbie Wessels and Adam Tas this December, all with free entry!
Don’t let your busy schedule keep you away from the beauty of melodies and tunes in the Jacaranda City. Watch local South African artists perform live while enjoying a drink and some good grub all year round.
