Written by: Hennie Fisher
If you are looking for information on where to explore the latest “it” hobbies such as thrifting, creative repurposing, mixology and ice sculpting, content creation, drumming and specialty sourdough baking, look no further!We may not have the beach or ocean in Pretoria, but these new “it” hobbies - and where to explore them in our city - are sure to spark your interest.
Why A New Hobby, You Ask?
We pursue hobbies in our free time for the enjoyment and personal satisfaction they give, but they could also generate an income if you go about it the right way. Research has shown that practising a hobby greatly reduces stress and improves mental well-being.
For example, active anglers are 52% less likely to experience moderate to severe psychological distress. In fact, US doctor, Mark Hyman (timesofindia.com) lists aquarium watching, reading and socialising as “hobbies for a happier mind,” nurturing mental well-being, lifting one's mood and quieting stress.
Other research identified that hobbies also foster a sense of purpose, allowing us to build relationships and gain a sense of community. Not to mention bringing passion, enjoyment, creativity, satisfaction and interest into our lives.
So, apart from the obligatory New Year's resolution to exercise more, what could be better than taking up a new “it” hobby or two in the new year?
Thrift Away
Thrifting - the sourcing of second-hand goods such as clothes, household items, books and other collectables - has become a significant trend worldwide. So much so that an entire mall selling only previously owned items in the Swedish city of Eskilstuna recently celebrated its 10th anniversary! In Pretoria, you can head to the Retro Rabbit at 881 Pierneef Street in Villieria to kickstart your new hobby. They stock a fantastic selection of kitchenware, clothes and even some furniture. In addition, visit The Vintage Square Thrift Fair at Brooklyn Mall for all things second-hand fashion - from dresses and jewellery to jackets and shoes.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/vintagesquarethriftfair
Instagram: @thevintagesquarethriftfair
Phone:+27 83 397 1069
Chip Your Way Into 2026
As far as hobbies go, giving new life to previously owned goods - upcycling or repurposing - is another trending hobby. Restore or even reupholster a small passage chair or reimagine a vintage wardrobe into a trendy drinks cabinet.
On the topic of repurposing, what about taking up crafting using plastic bottles. Numerous ideas about what to do with single-use plastic containers abound on the internet - from making Christmas tree decorations to chandeliers, pot-plant holders, high-end design elements or design art.
While on the subject of transforming an old wardrobe into a swanky wallpaper-lined, mirror-panelled drinks cabinet, what about taking up the hobby of ice cube sculpting, or cocktail ice carving? In the world of sphere and perfect ice cube making, clear ice is essential. Research some tips on using a Vacuum-Insulated Can Cooler to obtain perfect, clear ice that can be deftly chipped and chiselled into diamond shapes for your ultimate drink. As a matter of fact, if you are going to become an expert ice sculptor, why not also hone your skills as a mixologist while you’re at it? The skill of inventing and designing your own cocktails and mocktails, perfecting those deft hand movements we often see in professional bars, is something that will never go out of style!
Rumour has it that Pretoria’s famous Sheraton Hotel - opposite the Union Buildings - was built at a time when large buffet-style ice sculptures were at the order of the day. But, since the trend has passed, the hotel’s purposefully designed ice sculpting room now unfortunately remains largely unused.
Toy Voyaging As One Of This Year’s “It” Hobbies
One’s hobbies don’t have to involve physical exertion such as chipping away at a 50 kg ice block or sanding down an entire display cabinet, though. They can also be more sedentary like taking up content creation - something that is probably second nature for Gen Z.
Still, for those who aren’t keen to create content featuring themselves, having a hobby around which they could create content would be ideal. What about toy voyaging? Join the global community of enthusiasts who send toys on a travelling holiday, documenting, recording and creating content around the object's global travels. Sounds like a lot of fun,right? In fact, we’ve spotted photos of toy cars on Jacaranda-lined streets and so much more in 2025. We can only imagine what’s in store for hobbyists with a little imagination in 2026!
Drumming Your Way Into The New Year
If you are after something a bit more physical and rhythmic, why not consider the hobby of drumming? Silas is a percussionist who offers individualised drumming sessions. You can also contact Paepae Mmekwa for drumming sessions in the orchestra pit of the State Theatre, or at his home at 11783 Mamelodi, Ext 22 Heirderly. Finally, Klitsgras Drumming - located in Tierpoort, Garsfontein - is another rhythmic space where you can learn more about the basics of Djembè beats.
Silas: 083 746 6005
Paepae Mmekwa: 072 426 0581
Klitsgras Drumming
Website: klitsgras.co.za
Phone: 083 311 0025
Sourdough Bread Baking As Your “It” Hobby For 2026
There are, of course, some hobbies that may never go out of fashion. That includes learning to cook or bake. Expand on the skills you acquired during the Covid-19 sourdough bread baking craze by taking up specialty sourdough baking classes.
Want to learn how to make sourdough croissants, sourdough brioche and a variety of other specialty pastries? Contact any of the various professional or home baking establishments in Pretoria, such as Capsicum Culinary Studio, Prue Leith Culinary Institute, Steyn’s Culinary School, Capital Hotel School, and Antoinette’s Cookery School to find out what they offer.
As you plan your new year, don’t hesitate to think beyond the typical new year’s resolutions. In fact, we’d like to encourage you to delve into one of these "it" hobbies and challenge yourself to try something completely new this year. Whether it’s in the precision of specialty sourdough baking, or the rhythmic release of drumming that you find your vibe, or even in the artistic flair of ice sculpting, or the rewarding pursuit of thrifting and repurposing, these activities offer more than just a way to pass the time. They serve as avenues for personal growth, community connection and improved well-being.
Embrace the opportunity to learn something new in Pretoria and enrich your life with enjoyment, satisfaction and a renewed sense of purpose in 2026!
