See you at The Playground in Braamfontein

Hey there! I’m excited to share with you some awesome news. I recently discovered a fantastic place called The Playground in Braamfontein. Let me tell you more about it!

The Playground is a lively and happening spot that offers endless fun and entertainment. It’s the perfect place for people of all ages, whether you’re a kid looking for some playtime or an adult seeking a vibrant atmosphere.

When you step into The Playground, you’ll be greeted by a burst of energy and excitement. Everywhere you look, you’ll see smiling faces and hear laughter filling the air. It’s a place that instantly lifts your spirits and makes you feel alive.

One of the things that make The Playground special is its wide variety of activities. From trampolines to arcade games, there’s something for everyone. You can bounce around on the trampolines, challenge your friends to a game of laser tag, or show off your skills at the bowling alley. The possibilities are endless!

But it’s not just about the activities; The Playground also offers a fantastic selection of food and drinks. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a refreshing smoothie, or a delicious pizza, they have it all. And while you’re enjoying your meal, you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and let the lively music fill your ears.

The Playground in Braamfontein truly is a place like no other. It’s a place where you can let loose, have fun, and create unforgettable memories. So gather your friends and family, and head over to The Playground for a day of adventure and excitement. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

See you at The Playground!

When I found out that the old Neighbourgoods Market in inner-city Braamfontein was going to relaunch as The Playground last weekend, I was overjoyed. It was only 20 days into 2022, so calling it the best news of the year might have been a bit premature, but I was ecstatic nonetheless.

No, actually, let me correct that. I was beyond ecstatic.

The Playground is a special place that people from all over can come and enjoy. It’s like a meeting spot for everyone. Picture: Brett Rubin

When I was a kid, and during school breaks, I sometimes went to work with my mom to keep myself busy. She worked in Braamfontein, and in the mornings, I used to wander around the streets, observing people and absorbing everything that was happening around me. Now, as a travel writer and explorer, I realize that I was actually experiencing the vibrant energy of the place. I had a front-row seat to witness the diverse cultural mix and the enticing aromas of fennel, ginger, and the spices sold in the food shops. I was captivated by the shiny items displayed for sale. This is how my love affair with the inner city and its unique energy began.

So, let’s rewind a bit. Back in 2012, I stumbled upon the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, and it was an eye-opener. It brought back that same energy I had experienced years ago but never really understood. This market, just like its counterpart in Cape Town, called the Old Biscuit Mill, was a vibrant mix of different people from all walks of South African life.

Now, at that time, our society was going through some serious soul-searching. It felt like we were all trying to figure out who we really were as a nation. We were struggling to connect with each other on a deeper level, and it seemed like the unity we had once prided ourselves on was slipping away. The aftermath of the Rainbow Nation concept had left us with a major headache.

When I walk through the market entrance at The Playground, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement. The vibrant atmosphere and the sights and sounds of people coming together create a truly unique experience. It’s a place where you can connect with others, have engaging conversations, enjoy delicious food, and even dance if you feel like it. It’s like stepping into another world, a world where barriers dissolve, and people discover each other in unexpected ways.

However, the Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein didn’t escape the reach of COVID-19. The market, once bustling with life, was suddenly empty and abandoned. It was a heartbreaking sight. But then, Adam Levy, the founder of Play Braamfontein and one of the original creators of the Neighbourgoods Market, decided to take action.

So, this is what happened last Saturday: I went to that building on the corner of Juta and De Beer streets in Braamfontein. I was excited but also a bit nervous because I was about to check out the new version of the market, now called The Playground.

Life at The Playground on a Saturday morning is truly something special. It’s more than just a place to shop – it’s an experience that captures the essence of creativity. The atmosphere is electric, filled with an energy that ignites your senses and transports you to a different world.

As I look around, I see people fully immersed in this unique moment. They’re dancing to the captivating music, their bodies swaying to the rhythm. They’re dressed in outfits that showcase their individuality, inspired by the iconic Basotho straw hat known as the mokorotlo. They’re taking selfies to capture the magic of this day, their smiles radiating pure joy and happiness.

The Playground has grown and transformed over time, but it has never lost its original allure. This transformation is driven by a deliberate curation of the space and Adam’s unwavering determination to create something truly remarkable for the city.

“Life is all about storytelling,” Adam told me as we talked about what I was witnessing. “Just give people a voice and a platform, and watch them tell their story.” And that’s exactly what The Playground offers here – a chance for the artists of Joburg, in all their different art forms, to share a bit of themselves and their stories with us.

When I step into Play Braamfontein, I can’t help but be fascinated by the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds me. The market is a hub of creativity and innovation, where various artists and entrepreneurs come together to share their talents.

As I explore the market, I am drawn to the artisanal food and drink stalls that offer a tantalizing array of flavors and aromas. The streetwear designers, given a platform to showcase their work, captivate me with their unique creations. And as I make my way to the purpose-built stage, I am greeted by the mesmerizing beats of musicians and DJs, setting the perfect backdrop for the entire experience.

But it’s not just about what I can see and hear at Play Braamfontein. It’s also about the artists who bring the space to life. Talented individuals like Tyler B Murphy, working diligently on his protea mural, add an extra layer of beauty to the market. And then there’s BlckTagg, whose creativity knows no bounds as they transform Braamfontein’s restrooms into a modern masterpiece – a Cistern Chapel, as they call it.

What I love most about Play Braamfontein is the sense of community it fosters. It’s a place where artists and patrons can come together, connect, and inspire one another. It’s a hub of creativity and collaboration, where everyone is welcome to express themselves freely and authentically.

If you’re looking for a place that encapsulates the spirit of art, culture, and innovation, then Play Braamfontein is the place to be. Step into this vibrant market and let your senses be awed by the talent and creativity that surrounds you.

When I walked through the market last Saturday morning, I saw a diverse group of South Africans engaging with each other and enjoying themselves. It made me realize how far our society has come in terms of understanding and connecting with one another. It was truly a sight to behold.

The Playground provides a unique platform for up-and-coming streetwear designers in Johannesburg to showcase and sell their products. It’s a space where they can shine and share their creative vision with the world. This opportunity not only elevates their careers but also contributes to the growth of the local fashion industry.

The Cistern Chapel of Braamfontein. Picture: Ryan Enslin

This is where The Playground comes in – a platform that offers and enables exactly that. Adam summed it up nicely when he said, “The Playground reminds us that there are incredible things to be done, amazing people to meet, and unforgettable experiences to be had.” And I couldn’t agree more.

Last Saturday, I had the chance to experience something truly incredible. The new wrap-around balcony in Braamfontein offers breathtaking views, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Picture: Ryan Enslin

Located at 73 Juta Street, The Playground is a must-visit destination. It’s open every Saturday from 9am to 6pm, offering live music performances that will make your heart sing. But that’s not all – there are also 30 food traders, each serving up delicious treats that will satisfy any craving. The purpose-built bar area is a standout feature, giving you the perfect vantage point to admire the stunning views over the Nelson Mandela Bridge. And now, with the expanded wrap-around balcony, there are even more spots to take in the vibrant atmosphere of Braamfontein.

Let me tell you, seeing Braamfontein from this vantage point was truly a treat. The energy and life that fills the streets is palpable, and being able to observe it all from the balcony was an experience like no other. So if you’re looking for a place to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Braamfontein, The Playground is the place to be.

Make sure to follow Ryan’s adventures in and around Joburg here to stay up to date with all the amazing things happening in this city.

ALSO READ