Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
Hobby-X is a vibrant event that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship, inviting attendees to explore a wide spectrum of hobbies and crafts. From painting to woodworking, the event features hands-on workshops and demonstrations led by industry experts.
With over 14,000 visitors expected, Hobby-X serves as a platform for makers and creators to connect, learn, and discover new ideas. Hobby-X takes place in Johannesburg, South Africa.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: Hobby-X 2027 runs from 29 April to 2 May 2027 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- 2Scale and Focus: This vibrant event showcases a wide range of hobbies, crafts, and creative pursuits, attracting over 14,000 visitors.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by Messe Frankfurt South Africa, a leading global event organiser.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include hobbyists, makers, and professionals seeking new materials and techniques.
- 5Entry: The event runs daily from 09:00 to 17:00, with various workshops and activities available.
Why visit
Hobby-X offers a unique opportunity to discover the latest trends and products in the hobby and craft sector. Visitors can participate in hands-on workshops, meet industry experts, and explore a variety of creative pursuits. This event is perfect for anyone looking to ignite their passion for crafting or learn new skills.
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at Hobby-X provides unparalleled access to a targeted audience of hobby enthusiasts and professionals. Exhibitors can showcase their products, gain visibility, and connect with potential customers. The event's vibrant atmosphere fosters networking and collaboration, making it an ideal platform for businesses in the hobby and craft industry.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Hobbyists looking to explore new crafts
Professional artists seeking inspiration
Families interested in creative activities
DIY enthusiasts wanting to learn new techniques
Retail buyers sourcing hobby supplies
Students and educators in creative fields
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Suppliers of art and craft materials
Manufacturers of hobby tools and equipment
Providers of DIY kits and supplies
Workshops and training providers in creative arts
Retailers of handmade and artisanal products
Publishers of craft books and magazines
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Art supplies including paints and brushes
Crafting tools such as scissors and adhesives
DIY kits for home projects
Sculpting and modeling materials
Textiles and sewing supplies
Woodworking tools and materials
Location & Facilities
Venue
Halls & areas
2Kyalami International Convention CentreKyalami Grand Prix Circuit Track and Motoring Venues
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Johannesburg, South Africa
Facilities
Parking
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg) in Johannesburg typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg) in Johannesburg typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg) for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
29 April to 2 May 2027:9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Who runs the show
Organisers
Isekai World
Organiser
How the last edition performed
Previous edition
This edition
—
Visitors: 14,000
Next edition
Not announced yet
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Johannesburg, South Africa
Why it matters
On 2027-04-29 to 2027-05-02, Hobby-X in Johannesburg covering Art supplies including paints and brushes, Crafting tools such as scissors and adhesives, DIY kits for home projects, Sc gives fashion buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · ZAR
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Primary international gateway for Johannesburg; Gautrain connects to Sandton and Midrand, then ride-hail or event shuttle to Kyalami
TBA
to venue
Approx. 40-60 min depending traffic
by car
Lanseria International Airport
Smaller alternative north-west of Johannesburg; fewer international connections, confirm scheduled flights
TBA
to venue
Approx. 35-50 min
by car
Grand Central Airport
Small airport near Midrand; not a long-haul gateway, useful only for private or general aviation
TBA
to venue
Approx. 15-25 min
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City
4-star
Waterfall City, MidrandUSD 150–190 / night
Upscale option closest to the Kyalami/Midrand show precinct; book early for Hobby-X week.
City Lodge Hotel Waterfall City
3-star
Waterfall City, MidrandUSD 95–122 / night
Mid-range Waterfall City base with easy N1 access to Kyalami.
Regal Inn Hotel Midrand
3-star
MidrandUSD 95–122 / night
Budget-friendly Midrand option; confirm shuttle or ride-hail to the circuit.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Gautrain
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forO.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Gautrain is the fixed-rail option; Midrand station is the practical rail head for the Kyalami/Midrand hotel cluster. No rail station at the circuit itself.
Event shuttle bus
Estimated costFree on prior major Kyalami shows (e.g. Festival of Motoring); confirm for Hobby-X 2027
Best forGautrain station - Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit
Gautrain has run a free bus to Kyalami for large events; verify the 2027 schedule with the organiser.
Ride-hail / taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forMidrand or Sandton hotels - Kyalami precinct
No rail station at the circuit itself, so ride-hail or a hotel shuttle is the practical last leg.
Car / self-drive
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forMidrand - Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit
The circuit is reached by road from the N1/Midrand area; check show-day parking guidance before travelling.
Taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forGrand Central Airport (GCJ) to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Short transfer from the small Grand Central airport; confirm taxi availability on arrival.
taxi
Estimated costCost TBA
Best forLanseria International Airport (HLA) to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Approx. 35-50 min; Smaller alternative north-west of Johannesburg; fewer international connections, confirm scheduled flights.
Weather
Late April to early May is autumn in Johannesburg: mild, dry days and cool evenings. Expect daytime highs around 20-24 C and night-time lows around 8-12 C; rain is possible but the autumn dry season is beginning. Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings at the Kyalami venue.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
South Africa uses 230 V, 50 Hz and Type M (large three-pin) plugs, with some Type C/N sockets; bring a universal adapter. Vodacom, MTN, Telkom and Cell C are the main mobile networks; eSIMs are widely available. Venue Wi-Fi may be limited in halls, so plan a local data package. Scheduled load-shedding can affect power; major venues and hotels usually have backup, but confirm if you rely on equipment.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Greetings and language
English is widely used in Johannesburg business settings, and a friendly greeting is appreciated. South Africa has 11 official languages; English is the common language at trade shows and hotels.
Tipping
Tipping is customary for good service: around 10-15% in restaurants and a small amount for hotel porters and ride-hail drivers. Carry some rand cash for tips.
Urban safety
Johannesburg requires normal urban precautions: arrange transfers after dark, keep valuables out of sight, and use trusted ride-hail or hotel transport rather than walking long distances at night.
Load-shedding
Scheduled power cuts can occur in South Africa. Major venues and hotels usually have backup power; confirm with your hotel and the Kyalami venue if you rely on equipment or refrigeration.
Payments
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger retailers. Carry some rand cash for small vendors, tips and transport.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: JNB
Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International (JNB) is the main gateway for Hobby-X 2027. The 29 April-3 May window overlaps the tail of the South African autumn school holiday period, so book long-haul seats early. Fares in the samples are indicative Google Flights results captured in ZAR and include taxes and fees; optional bags and seats are extra. Direct routings exist from London and Sydney, while US and Japanese travellers connect via Europe or the Gulf. Compare JNB with Lanseria (HLA) only if your carrier serves it.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Approx. 40-60 min depending traffic; Lanseria International Airport (HLA): Approx. 35-50 min; Grand Central Airport (GCJ): Approx. 15-25 min. Allow road or rail time to Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg); on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg): Waterfall City, Midrand: Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City; Waterfall City, Midrand: City Lodge Hotel Waterfall City; Midrand: Regal Inn Hotel Midrand.
Ride-hail: Uber and Bolt operate in Johannesburg; use the app to confirm pickup points at Kyalami, as the circuit has designated drop-off zones on event days. Expect surge pricing around opening and closing times.
Public transit: The Gautrain is the most practical public-transit option for visitors, linking O.R. Tambo, Sandton and Midrand. Kyalami is not on the rail network, so the last leg is by event shuttle or ride-hail. Metrobus and minibus taxis serve wider Johannesburg but are not recommended for visitors without local knowledge.
Parking: Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit has on-site parking, with overflow arrangements for large shows. Confirm show-day parking rates and hall access on the Hobby-X or venue website; if rates apply, budget approx. ZAR 50-100 per day.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: Late April to early May 2027 (autumn in Johannesburg)
Temperature: Approx. 8-12 C at night, 20-24 C by day; confirm forecast closer to travel.
Seasonality: Autumn is drier than the summer rainy season, but occasional showers are possible; evenings cool down quickly at the Kyalami venue.
Packing: Pack layers: a light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings, comfortable shoes for walking the halls, sun protection for midday, and a compact umbrella for occasional autumn showers.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Hobby-X usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
Day 1
Book flights into O.R. Tambo International (JNB) and compare the Gautrain plus ride-hail option against a direct airport transfer.
Day 2
Reserve a hotel in Waterfall City or Midrand to keep the daily commute to Kyalami short.
Day 3
Pre-register for Hobby-X 2027 if visitor registration is open, and save your ticket or confirmation offline.
Day 4
Check the exhibitor list and schedule for workshops, demos or product categories you want to prioritise.
Day 5
Plan your airport-to-hotel and hotel-to-venue legs in ZAR; confirm Gautrain fares, ride-hail estimates and any event shuttle.
Day 6
Check the Johannesburg autumn forecast and pack layers for cool mornings and mild afternoons.; Confirm passport validity, visa status and travel insurance for South Africa.
Day 7
Download offline maps, arrange a local eSIM or data package, and pack a Type M plug adapter.
Day 8
Arrive in Johannesburg, confirm your ride-hail pickup point and keep valuables out of sight in transit.
Day 9
Show day: Arrive early at Kyalami for security screening, wear comfortable shoes and carry a refillable water bottle.
Day 10
Show day: Use the official show guide or app to plan hall routes and demo times; confirm closing hours before leaving the venue.
Day 11
Confirm Hobby-X 2027 dates (29 April-2 May) and venue (Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre, Midrand) on hobby-x.co.za.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Hobby-X registration concourse
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre Midrand (Johannesburg)
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nightsZAR 190.00
- Per diem × 2ZAR 150.00
Estimated totalZAR 340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Hobby-X fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For Hobby-X, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Art supplies including paints and brushes and Crafting tools such as scissors an solutions and benchmarking suppliers at Hobby-X in Johannesburg.
Min. budget
$530.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Art supplies including paints and brushes and Crafting tools such as scissors an products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,385.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Johannesburg show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
When and where is Hobby-X 2027?
Hobby-X 2027 runs from 29 April to 2 May 2027 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg. Confirm show-day opening hours on hobby-x.co.za.
Is Hobby-X open to the public or trade only?
Hobby-X is listed as a hobby, craft and DIY show in Johannesburg; the sources reviewed do not confirm a trade-only day. Check hobby-x.co.za for the 2027 visitor policy and any trade-focused sessions.
What can I buy at Hobby-X?
Expect hobby, craft and DIY supplies: scale models, radio-control gear, die-cast collectibles, art and craft materials, games, tools and demonstration kits from exhibitors. Product lists can change by edition, so check the exhibitor directory before travelling.
How do I register for Hobby-X 2027?
Visitor and exhibitor registration paths are published on hobby-x.co.za. The sources reviewed did not include a 2027 registration deadline, so confirm dates and requirements on the official site before booking travel.
Is there parking at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit?
Yes, the circuit has on-site parking with overflow arrangements for large shows. Confirm show-day rates and hall access on the Hobby-X or venue website; if charges apply, budget approx. ZAR 50-100 per day.
How do I get from O.R. Tambo to Kyalami?
Take the Gautrain to Midrand station (approx. ZAR 150-200 one way), then a ride-hail or event shuttle to Kyalami (approx. ZAR 150-300), or use a direct ride-hail/taxi (approx. ZAR 450-650, 40-60 min depending traffic). Confirm the Hobby-X 2027 shuttle schedule with the organiser.
Are children and families welcome at Hobby-X?
Hobby-X is a hobby and craft show that typically attracts family visitors as well as trade buyers. The sources reviewed did not list a 2027 age policy, so check hobby-x.co.za for child tickets and any age restrictions before you go.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre hosts large public events; accessibility details for Hobby-X 2027 should be confirmed with the organiser or venue before travel. Ask about drop-off points, accessible parking and hall access.
Can I bring my own models or cosplay to Hobby-X?
The sources reviewed did not publish a 2027 cosplay or model-entry policy. Contact the organiser via hobby-x.co.za if you plan to bring large models, props or cosplay weapons, as venue security rules may apply.
Will there be workshops and demonstrations?
Hobby-X typically includes demonstration and workshop content alongside exhibitor stands. The 2027 programme was not published in the sources reviewed; check hobby-x.co.za/schedule for timings and sign-up details.
Who organises Hobby-X?
Hobby-X is organised by the team behind hobby-x.co.za. Use the contact details on the official site for 2027 exhibitor, visitor and media enquiries.
Where can I find ticket prices?
The sources reviewed did not list 2027 ticket prices. Check hobby-x.co.za for current ticket categories, prices and show-day hours before booking.
Glossary
- RC (radio control)
- Radio-controlled models steered by a handheld transmitter, common in cars, aircraft, boats and drones.
- Die-cast
- A metal casting process used for collectible model cars, trucks and figures; die-cast models are a staple of hobby retail.
- Scale model
- A miniature reproduction built to a specific ratio, such as 1:24 or 1:72, used in automotive, aircraft, military and figure modelling.
- Kitbashing
- Combining parts from two or more model kits to create a custom subject, often used in sci-fi and wargaming builds.
- Scratchbuilding
- Building a model from raw materials rather than a pre-cut kit, a core skill in advanced scale modelling.
- Airbrushing
- Spraying thinned paint through an airbrush for smooth finishes and fine camouflage or weathering on models.
- Resin casting
- Pouring two-part resin into silicone moulds to reproduce detailed parts, figures or custom components.
- Diorama
- A three-dimensional scene combining models, terrain and figures to tell a story or show a subject in context.
- Papercraft
- Building models or artwork from printed card and paper, often using downloadable templates.
- Scrapbooking
- Preserving photographs and memorabilia in decorated albums with papers, stickers and embellishments.
- Cardmaking
- Hand-making greeting cards using stamps, dies, inks and papercraft techniques.
- Cosplay
- Costume play where hobbyists build and wear outfits based on characters from games, films and comics.
- Tabletop wargaming
- Strategy games played with miniature armies on a themed table, often supported by terrain and painting supplies.
- Maker / DIY
- Hands-on making that combines craft skills with tools, electronics or fabrication, a growing crossover segment at hobby shows.
- Trade day
- A show day reserved for retail buyers, distributors and press rather than the general public; confirm whether Hobby-X 2027 includes one.
- Demo zone
- An area where exhibitors run live demonstrations, try-before-you-buy sessions and workshop-style activities.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Hobby-X 2027
- Johannesburg Hobby Show
- Hobby and Craft Fair South Africa
- Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit events
- Hobby-X Johannesburg 2027
- Hobby 2027
- Hobby Johannesburg 2027
- Johannesburg South Africa
- Hobbies and Crafts Johannesburg 2027
- Art supplies including paints and brushes
4 more alternate names hidden
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.