The Rand Easter Show 2025 drew thousands of South Africans to the Johannesburg Expo Centre from April 17 to 21, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment, shopping, interactive exhibits, and public service access under this year’s captivating theme, Ocean Wonders.
Every Easter, families from across South Africa descend upon Nasrec’s Johannesburg Expo Centre for one of the country’s most cherished annual events: the Rand Easter Show. This year’s edition continued the beloved tradition, delivering a festive fusion of amusement, learning, and shopping—drawing children, parents, and even grandparents to explore a variety of attractions.
Running from April 17 to 21, the 2025 Rand Easter Show brought the Expo Centre to life with colourful fairground rides, food stalls, pop-up stores, and themed exhibitions that catered to all ages. Organisers declared this year’s turnout and visitor feedback a resounding success.
“We really enjoyed ourselves here at the Rand Easter Show,” said one attendee. “It’s for the kids, it’s for the adults, it’s for the grandparents—it’s for everyone. We’re having a fantastic time,” added another.
An Ocean of Wonder
Themed Ocean Wonders, this year’s event plunged visitors into a marine-inspired adventure. One of the standout attractions was a state-of-the-art virtual aquarium experience, where guests could interact with digital sea creatures, explore coral reefs, and learn about marine life conservation through augmented reality and immersive soundscapes.
Adding to the theme, the show introduced an Interactive Marine World, combining education and entertainment. Children marveled at lifelike animatronics of sea creatures, while educators shared facts about ocean ecosystems, pollution, and how to protect marine biodiversity. The feature proved especially popular among school groups and young families.
Connecting With Government Services
Aside from the entertainment and shopping experiences, the Rand Easter Show is also known for its unique Public Service Hall, which offers South Africans direct access to numerous government departments and public sector institutions. From health and education to safety and social development, visitors could engage directly with officials, collect information, and even access some basic services on-site.
This year, the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Social Development, and Gauteng Department of Health were among the most visited stands. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to ask questions, collect brochures, and participate in workshops that informed them about everything from youth programs to healthcare registration.
“We’re not just about fun and food,” said Adele Hartdegen, CEO of the Rand Show. “We’re also about helping South Africans connect with essential services in an engaging, friendly environment.”
Listening to the Public, Evolving the Experience
Now almost 90 years old, the Rand Easter Show continues to evolve with the times. Originally launched in 1936 as the Empire Exhibition, the event has grown into the country’s largest consumer show and one of Johannesburg’s most recognizable Easter traditions.
According to Hartdegen, feedback from the public plays a critical role in shaping each year’s program.
“We really took a look at what consumers were asking for, what our visitors wanted,” she explained. “We also went back into previous editions of the show to see what we haven’t offered the public yet. This helps us keep the experience fresh while honouring the tradition.”
This approach has helped the Rand Easter Show maintain its relevance and appeal amid changing entertainment trends and growing public demand for immersive, purposeful experiences.
Food, Culture, and Local Enterprise
The show was also a celebration of South Africa’s diverse culture and entrepreneurial spirit. Local artisans, chefs, and vendors set up shop throughout the venue, offering everything from handmade crafts and home décor to gourmet street food and clothing.
The food stalls, in particular, were a hit. Visitors queued for traditional South African favourites, fusion dishes, and trendy desserts. Braai stations, biltong stands, and craft beverage corners offered something for every palate.
Pop-up shops and exhibitor booths gave small businesses the chance to showcase their products to a wide audience, with many reporting strong sales and new customer leads. The event’s support for SMEs and emerging entrepreneurs was seen as another key highlight.
Entertainment for All Ages
For thrill-seekers and younger guests, the amusement park section featured everything from roller coasters and bumper cars to a dedicated kiddies’ zone filled with rides and games. Live entertainment stages showcased South African music, dance, and drama performances throughout the weekend.
Kids enjoyed puppet shows, face painting, animal encounters, and treasure hunts tied into the Ocean Wonders theme, while adults were treated to fashion shows, comedy acts, and cooking demos.
A Legacy of Celebration
The Rand Easter Show has long been more than just a fair—it’s a national celebration that brings together people of all backgrounds to enjoy a shared cultural experience. Whether exploring a virtual ocean, engaging with government services, or simply enjoying a sunny day with family, the show’s diverse offerings continue to embody the spirit of unity and innovation.
“This is the kind of event that brings communities together,” said one parent. “My kids were entertained, I was able to do some shopping, and we even stopped by a government stand to learn about school programs. It’s a win-win.”
Looking Ahead
As planning for the 2026 edition begins, organisers say they will continue to listen to public feedback and push creative boundaries. Hartdegen emphasized the importance of staying true to the event’s roots while adapting to modern expectations.
“We’re proud of how the show has grown over the years,” she said. “And we’re excited to keep building an experience that’s memorable, meaningful, and uniquely South African.”
