26/07/2026
Events at James & Ethel Gray Park: who approves them, where the fees go, and what role does the Foundation play? 🌿
Public spaces across Johannesburg, South Africa and the world are commonly used for an array of events - from community walks, markets and sporting activities to cultural gatherings and festivals. This is a normal part of how shared public spaces serve communities, but every event must still be managed responsibly.
The James & Ethel Gray Park Foundation’s relationship with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is governed by a formal adoption arrangement. Through this arrangement, the Foundation supports the park’s safety, security, sustainability, maintenance and long-term care.
The adoption arrangement does not transfer ownership of the park or give the Foundation authority to approve or deny events. The park remains a municipal public space, and event approvals sit with the City of Johannesburg.
The Foundation does not rent out the park, and any official event fees are paid to the City - not to the Foundation. Any voluntary donations made by organisers are entirely separate from City fees and contribute directly to the care and protection of the park.
Once an event has been approved, our role is to advocate for:
• Respect for residents and park users
• Responsible waste management
• Protection of the lake, lawns, trees and wildlife
• Safety and security
• Legally compliant noise levels
• Proper post-event restoration
Over the past year, the Foundation has raised concerns around more than 200 proposed events, many of which did not go ahead as a result. We continue to advocate for fewer, better-managed and higher-quality events that respect the park, its surrounding residents and the wider community.
Swipe through for the full explanation, and please share this post to help our community understand how the event process works.
Our mission remains unchanged: keeping James & Ethel Gray Park safe, welcoming, sustainable and open to all.
