What to do this weekend: Get your green fingers going at Houghton Bonsai, Succulent & Plant Show

Green fingers and curious kids are in for a treat this weekend, as the 5th annual Houghton Bonsai, Succulent & Plant Show takes root at Killarney Mall on Saturday, 31 October and Sunday, 1 November.

Billed by organisers as South Africa’s biggest plant show, the award-winning event brings together rare bonsai, succulents, orchids, garden accessories and more. It’s a good excuse to refresh your indoor jungle, pick up some expert tips or simply wander among the greenery.

What to expect

• A free Bonsai hospital: Specialist Tommy Ramiah will diagnose struggling trees and offer hands-on care advice. Bring along the bonsai that’s looking a little worse for wear.
• Live demonstrations: Watch the experts at work with styling, pruning and propagation, and pick up techniques you can try at home.
• Rare plants and accessories: Browse bonsai, succulents and orchids, as well as garden accessories.
• Kids’ zone: Younger visitors get their own plant-themed fun, with plenty of activities on both Saturday and Sunday.

Bring the little ones

The kids’ zone is free, and organisers say it’s designed to keep every little visitor entertained while the grown-ups browse. Activities include:

• Soft play area
• The Science Guy – Bright Sparks Workshops (plant-based science activities)
• Cake succulent craft-making
• Face painting
• Balloon sculpting
• Bubble house

Need-to-know

• Where: Killarney Mall, in the old Exclusive Books space, opposite Mugg & Bean
• When: Saturday, 31 October and Sunday, 1 November 2026
• Hours: 9am – 4pm daily
• Tickets: Free entry
• Kids’ Zone: Free

Why go?

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or can barely keep a succulent alive, the show offers expert advice, hands-on demonstrations and a family-friendly kids’ zone, all under one roof and in one weekend.