Open City is an initiative of FNB Art Joburg that activates the city with art, music, performance, food and fashion, every day of the week for 16+ days. An active means of promoting social cohesion while fostering a sustainable ecosystem, Open City gives independent and emerging cultural practitioners the opportunity to reach a wider audience of culture consumers. 

Surrounding the fair with art + culture, Open City will take over Johannesburg as the continent’s culture capital from 28 August – 11 September 2025. Taking place beyond the three-day fair, FNB Art Joburg remains committed to the city’s cultural landscape through Open City. A city-wide initiative, Open City fulfills FNB Art Joburg’s mandate for economic stimulation, inclusivity, and better access for all by encouraging Johannesburg’s visitors and residents to immerse themselves in the capital’s rich and layered cultural offerings until it becomes a part of their everyday life.