Make new friends and explore new hobbies in retirement
National
The Meetup app connects you to social clubs, games evenings, dances and clubs for hiking, gardening, chess and tennis in your neighbourhood.
Johannesburg
Activity: Art classes at the Kim Sacks School of Ceramics & Gallery Workshops.
Description: Though primarily known for ceramics, Kim Sacks offers various pop-up workshops covering clay, fibre and paper. Address: 153 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkwood; Email: [email protected]; contact number: 067 704 3926 (office hours) or 083 377 7499 (WhatsApp for workshop info).
Activity: University of the Third Age (U3A). Description: U3A offers educational and leisure activities for retired and semiretired people. Members share their knowledge and interests through a variety of courses and groups covering diverse topics, from history and literature to hobbies and current affairs. Address: 6 Randjeslaagte Rd, Highlands North, Johannesburg, 2192 (This is its administrative address; classes may be held elsewhere or online.); Email: [email protected]; contact number: Email is preferred for initial contact, but check the website for general U3A national contacts if needed.
Cape Town
Activity: Cape Town Swing (beginner classes and social dances). Description: Learn the joyful art of swing dancing! It's a fantastic way to stay active, meet new people and enjoy music. Address: Varies for classes and social dances (check its website for current venues); Email: [email protected]; contact number: Email is preferred.
Activity: Silent Book Club – Cape Town Chapter. Description: A unique social activity for book lovers. Instead of assigned readings and formal discussions, participants gather in a relaxed setting (often cafés) to read their own books in comfortable silence, followed by optional casual chatting. Address: Various public venues (check its Meetup or social media for event locations); Email: Often managed through Meetup or direct message via social media. Website/platform: Look for 'Silent Book Club Cape Town' on Meetup.com or Instagram.
Pretoria
Activity: SANBI Pretoria National Botanical Garden. Description: The garden offers a beautiful space for walking and connecting with nature, and it has pensioner discounts for annual memberships. There are often events, educational programmes and volunteer opportunities that could appeal to gardeners. Address: 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria; Email: [email protected] (general SANBI queries) or [email protected]; for general information see here, or go here; Contact number: 012 002 5201 / 012 002 5200. DM
This story first appeared in our weekly Daily Maverick 168 newspaper, which is available countrywide for R35.
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