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UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE GARDEN ROUTE FOR 2012
See our specials on accommodation under our specials section
Sedgefield Slow Festival
When: Thursday, 05 April 2012 to Monday, 09 April 2012 Where: Sedgefield Categories: Annual Festivals
/ Charity Events / Entertainment
Remember when people had fun without television, cell
phones and computers? When all kids could ride bikes and
played outdoors all day?
Well, Slow Festival is all about having fun the old-fashioned
way. Celebrating the great outdoors in and around the sea-
side town of Sedgefield, the Slow Festival includes a wide
range of activities for all ages and interests. Events include: a
geo-treasure hunt, boules tournament, paragliding challenge,
fun dog walk, music trivia evening, kite flying, trail run,
mountainbike challenge, food and wine pairing evening, beach dance party, street parade, Easter Bunny
beach fling, sand sculpting challenge, Miss Slow Fest beauty pageant and a whole lot more! Proceeds of
events go to local charities, schools and organisations.
Sedgefield was declared Africa's first Cittaslow Town in October 2010. Inspired by the concept of 'slow
food', Cittaslow is a worldwide membership organisation promoting quality of life and resisting fast-lane
lifestyle. Cittaslow (which literally means 'slow city') originated in Italy in 1999 and represents nearly 100
towns across the world. Abiding by a list of values aimed at improving quality of life, registered Cittaslow
towns celebrate diversity of cultures and promote the specialties of their own people and surroundings
While most people live by their watches, the Sedgefield Slow Festival will offer the time to enjoy,
appreciate and savour. Website: http://www.slowfestival.co.za/ Garden Route Events
Knysna Speed Festival
When: Saturday, 12 May 2012 to Sunday, 20 May 2012 Where: Knysna Categories: Annual Festivals /
Charity Events / Outdoor Events
The Knysna Speed Festival welcomes you to Knysna, the heart of the Garden Route.
This year's Knysna Speed Festival is sure to entertain any and all
speed lovers from all across South Africa for a week of pure
adrenalin and fun filled action for the whole family!
The Knysna Speed Festival story began in 2009 with the running
of the first Knysna Hillclimb. From humble beginnings the event
exploded in 2010 and, although it is a relatively new fixture on
the South African motorsport calendar, it has immediately
positioned itself as one of the premier events on the South
African motorsport scene.
While the Hillclimb will always remain the core event, the Knysna Speed Festival will be far more than just
a single motorsport race. The festival will incorporate a variety of events that will not only benefit charities
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and provide significant economic benefit for the town of Knysna, but will offer exciting activities for
participants and spectators.
In addition to the Renault Knysna Hillclimb, events to be included in the festival are the Knysna Motor
Show, the Knysna Kart Grand Prix, Knysna Slot Car challenge, Knysna Soap Box Derby, and the Knysna
Speed Festival Charity Golf Day.
Knysna Oyster Festival
When: Friday, 06 July 2012 to Sunday, 15 July 2012 Where: Knysna Categories: Annual Festivals /
Entertainment / Food & Wine / Outdoor Events
The Knysna Oyster Festival is probably one of the most popular annual events in the Western Cape. It is
also something of a celebration of the good life and sport and has
taken place every year since 1983, where it began as the Knysna
Winter Festival - a combination of sport that rew people to
Knysna during the quiet winter season.
Marketed as the 'Best 10 Days of Your Winter', the Knysna Oyster
festival is spread across two weekends that promise constant fun
and activities for the whole family. The sport aspect of the Oyster
Festival has evolved into two major sporting events - the Pick n
Pay Cape Times Forest Marathon (half marathon), and the Pick n
Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Cycle Tour, now a two-day event that is the biggest of its kind in the country.
The 2010 Knysna Oyster Festival promises almost 100 mid-week events that include some exciting new
additions: The Geo Oyster Geocaching Competition (a fun way to navigate around the greater Knysna
Basin), the Pick n Pay Fun Event for the disabled (the first time the Oyster Festival is hosting a sports event
for disabled competitors), the Navigation Drift Dive Challenge (an attempt by scuba divers to navigate their
way under water from The Heads to Thesen's Jetty without surfacing), and the Night of 1 000 Pictures
(two-night exhibition of photography, illustrations and paintings to raise funds for the Knysna Hospice by
local artists).
Other mid-week events will include the Wade Bales Wine Festival, the Pick n Pay Oyster and Wine Mardi
Gras, the Knysna Lyster Company Shucking Competition and sports events such as the Scottish Leader
Whisky Bowls Tournament and the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays Waitron Race.
But of course the stars of the show are undoubtedly the oysters, served naked, cooked or garnished at
over 30 local Tabasco Hotspots throughout the festi
Garden Route Events
Knysna Cycle Tour
When: Saturday, 07 July 2012 to Sunday, 08 July 2012 Where: Knysna Categories: Sporting Events
Pick 'n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour: The Pick 'n
Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour is part of the
prestigious Mazda Mountain Bike Marathon Series. Mountain Bike
Events take place on Saturday 7 July and the road race events on
Sunday 8 July.
Distance(s): Mazda Marathon 85km. FPC Half-marathon 42km.
There is also a 15km fun ride
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Race Day: Saturday 7 July
Location: Knysna, Western Cape Venue: Loerie Park, George Rex Drive, Knysna Contact: Zandile on 044 -
382 1129 Website: http://www.knysnacycle.co.za/
Wedge Classic When: Dates to be confirmed (Tuesday, 10 July 2012 to Monday, 16 July 2012) Where:
Plettenberg Bay Categories: Outdoor Events / Sporting Events This is South Africa's biggest bodyboarding
contest and Plett's longest running event!
As the 3rd and final events before the S.A Champs on the SA Body Boarding Association circuit with points
counting towards the crowning of the SABA champions this is an event not to be missed.
The event expects to attract more than 150 entrants many of whom are South Africa's best bodyboarders.
The contestants come from all around the country and are ready to battle each other for the coveted "King
of the Wedge" title.
In addition to the bodyboarding, the South African Jet Ski Association will be having the 6th leg of their
National Series in the Bay on Saturday the 16th. The race will include some of South Africa's best Jet Ski
Racers, including 3 former world champions, 12 Riders who have represented South Africa internationally,
and many other local riders. There are 6 different divisions with 3
races in each, so there will be 18 exciting and thrilling heats of
top quality Jet Ski racing!
The Wedge in Plett is one of South Africa's most famous and
desired bodyboarding venues and this event has a long
standing tradition in South Africa. A firm favourite on the body
boarding calendar. Come and support these contestants as the
beach should be as busy as the waves.
Venue: The Wedge (Plettenberg Bay) Rating: 5A Classification:
National Circuit More Info: Telephone +27(0)82 321-8177
Knysna Forest Marathon
When: Saturday, 14 July 2012 Where: Knysna Categories: Annual Festivals / Marathons & Half Marathons
/ Sporting Events
The Knysna Forest Marathon is held annually during the Knysna Oyster Festival and is always a great
success.
Participants can take place in either the 42.2km full marathon or
the 21.1km half-marathon. This is a favourite on the running
calendar.
Entries are limited to 1000 runners for the full marathon and 5500
for the half, so it is advisable to book early to avoid
disappointment.
Race Starting Times: Full Marathon: 07h00, Half Marathon 08h00
Contact: Moses on +27 (0)44 382-6880 Garden Route Events
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Vodashop George Cheese Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 29 July 2012 to Tuesday, 31 July 2012) Where: George Categories:
Annual Festivals / Entertainment / Food & Wine3 Days of Cheese, Wine, Food, music & Fun all under one
roof. R55 buys you entrance to all demo sessions, tastings and
music is free. 77 Cheese, Wine & Food exhibitors, Live Music, 9
Restaurants, Full Bar, Smoking Lounge, Coffee Bar. Cheese &
Wine pairing session: Brandy & Belgian Chocolate pairing
sessions. Food Theatre: interactive cooking demos with Top SA
Chefs. Champagne with Cheese, Oysters & Strawberrys!
Supervised Children's Area for under 10s and a play park for
older children.
Venue: Outeniqua Primary School, Cathedral Street, George
Contact: Info Line: 082 032 4589 Please Note: Dates for this
event to be confirmed.
Tramonto Wedding Run
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 20 August 2012) Where: George Categories: Annual Festivals /
Sporting Events
After a very successful event in 2010 with over 300 athletes competing this event will only grow from
strength to strength.
Come and enjoy a fantastic day out at the Tramonto Wedding Run
in George. Sports enthusiasts can take part in either the 5km or
10km race or the 5km couples rn. There are also a host of lucky
draws and great prizes to be won, not to mention fantasic
entertainment. Also on offer is a hot breakfast buffet and a variety
of food stalls, so if you're not running you can keep yourself busy.
The Bride's Dash is something fun and exciting, so make sure you
don't miss out. This is a 1km dash that is perfect for all brides, future
brides, past brides, brides to be or those pretending to be brides. Get your wedding gear on and get ready
to run!
Venue: Tramonto Function Venue Telephone: +27 (0)44 870-7150
NRL Wines Trade Show
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 20 August 2012 to Tuesday, 21 August 2012) Where: George
Categories: Annual Festivals / Food & Wine
NRL wines will be showcasing a variety of wines from different
winemakers all around the Garden Route and Cape
Winelands.
Gourmet dinner with Winemakers on Thursday, Tradeshow
for clients on Friday, Open day on Saterday with live
performances by Watershed. Olive, cheese, shushi and wine
stalls.
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Contact: +27 (0)44 870-7150 Venue: Tramonto Venue, George Garden Route Events
Garden Route Wedding Exhibition
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 20 August 2012 to Wednesday, 22 August 2012) Where: George
Categories: Wedding Expos
The famous Garden Route region is a well known and world
renowned wedding destination.
The annual Garden Route Wedding Exhibition, now in its 4th
year, is the Southern Cape region’s most celebrated wedding
event. It offers visitors and couples planning their special day a
wide variety of wedding related services and service providers.
This year’s dazzling Wedding Exhibition will be held at the
Garden Route Mall, George.
The Exhibition features fashion shows and demonstrations and
boasts an extensive fusion of exhibitors from cars and cakes to flowers and photos, all under one roof. The
event is presented in spring to give service providers the opportunity to aim their marketing at those
getting married in the summer season.
Telephone: +27 (0)44 874-2015 Garden Route Events
Gourmets & Gourmands Culinary Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 27 August 2012) Where: George Categories: Annual Festivals /
Pair Excellence! Gourmets & Gourmands mingles with food
and wine. It is that time of the year again when Gourmets
& Gourmands mingles with food and wine. This year is an
extra special one as we are celebrating 200 years of George
and introducing another twist to the tale of food and wine
pairing decadence with an extravagant theme… "Life is a
masquerade" is the first themed Gourmets & Gourmands
evening.
Restaurants and wine farms are already putting the final
touches to their menu pairings, according to a famous foodie, pairing is an expression of a lifelong
exploration of wine and food, an endeavor of passion; a passion to be shared. The popularity of food and
wine pairings has increased in recent years, so much so that it has become commonplace to adding wine
pairing as something special to the usual dining experience.
So, whilst the decadence of the evening's events is festive, there is more to it as the funds raised will go
towards the learners of and fantastic work done at the Carpe Diem School.
Venue: Carpe Diem School Contact: Karools Haputfleish on +27 (0)44 874-4074
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The Honey Trail
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 09 September 2012 to Tuesday, 11 September 2012)
Where: Mossel Bay Categories: Outdoor Events / Sporting Events
Here's something to make your mouths water and the sweat drip. The Honey Trail, a three-day stage MTB
race, will run from Mossel Bay to Plettenberg Bay from 9 to
11 September 2011, overnighting in George and Knysna.
The route will take riders along the Outeniqua Mountains,
from sparse Karoo vegetation through lush seaboard
forests. The name of the race was inspired by the Khoi
name for the mountain range that borders the area:
'Outeniqua' means 'man laden with honey'.
The total distance is expected to be 260 kms: 90 km -
Mossel Bay to George; 100 km - George to Knysna; and 80
km - Knysna to Plettenberg Bay. The route will stay south of
the Outeniqua Mountains and whilst there are always be climbs, all will be rideable. Distances may appear
lengthy, but will not include difficulty ratings to awaken undue apprehension in a rider's heart. The
objective is to ride from start to finish, without setting foot on the track.
The entry fee will include an average of 4star accommodation in hotels and B&B's and lunch on all 3 days.
The finish of Day One will be at Fancourt and early entries will be able to book their accommodation at this
prestigious hotel. Day Two will start at Fancourt and end at Portland Manor in Knysna.
Again, early entries are invited to book a night's stay at luxurious Portland - a sweet deal. But later entries
need not fear the beautiful Knysna Hollow, Phantom View River Resort and Bamboo Guesthouse are ready
to welcome "bath you in honey"! The finish will be at the Crescent Country Hotel in Piesang Valley in
Plettenberg Bay.
Entrants can choose the race package and still add partners/ spectators to the accommodation, There will
be a number of options regarding supper which will be for the riders' own account. This will be an exciting
cycling holiday weekend. Any surplus from the event will be applied to benefit Development and
Transformation rider's in the Southern Cape. At present, there are no events supporting this.
The Honey Trail tag line is "It's all about the experience" and what an experience this stage race promises
to be, encompassing the length of the glorious Garden Route in spring!
Contact: Sam on +27 (0)74 580-5893 Garden Route Events
Garden Route on a Plate
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 16 September 2012 to Monday, 17 September 2012) Where:
George Categories: Annual Festivals / Food & Wine
A lifestyle festival that is supported by the international
gourmand society, the Chaîne de Rôttisseurs and the South
African Chefs Association, is surely an event to make your
mouth water. A notably enthusiastic Francois Ferreira
commented that “the festival will offer exactly what the name
says: a showcase of all the gourmet delights the Southern Cape
has to offer under one roof. Local chefs will use products from
the area to tempt the palates of food lovers and to showcase
their craft.”
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The heart of the festival will be the Eden School of Culinary Art which is situated at Label Leaders House on
the school grounds of PW Botha College. Existing buildings will be extended by tents and up to eight
popular restaurants will present their food creations to the public, experts and enthusiasts alike. Patrons
will be able to indulge in bite sized shares of restaurant creations at every stand, whist they can sample the
full bodied bests from a variety of winemakers. Cocktail lounges will provide the perfect platform to mix
and mingle the twine (your love for food and that for wine) in a relaxed environment.
Some of the participating restaurants include the Turkish influences of Kafé Şerefe, The Rose on York,
Serendipity, The Girls, Trans Karoo, Chef Alma @ Groenvlei in Sedgefield and La Locanda for an Italian
twist. To give the event some extra flavour, a street food lane will offer traditional dishes. This “lekker
lane” will give festival guests the opportunity to feast on dishes like pap and sheba, pea soup and
roosterkoek, breyani and afval (offal). Once the extraordinary taste sensations at the festival tents have
inspired patrons to develop their culinary skills, they can attend a series of workshops in the main hall of
the school of culinary art. These workshops will be presented by local chefs like Karen du Plessis from
Unilever, Chef Dario Soresi from La Locanda, and François himself. Workshops on Brandy and Port, and
sessions on the secrets of wine cultivars like Chardonnay will be presented by winemakers like Meyer
Joubert of Joubert Tradouw in Barrydale, Ladismith Wines & Oudtshoorn Winary. Without a doubt, guests
are guaranteed a culinary experienced unrivalled, sure to transform any “take-out tonight, honey” into a
gastronomic genius, inspired to work magic on whatever is in the fridge.
So whether you are weekend cooking enthusiast and old-faithful with your “kook en geniet” bible under
your arm or a fan of people able to whip up a storm in a heartbeat when someone shouts “ready, steady,
cook”, then Garden Route on a plate Festival will be the cherry on your culinary cake. Venue: PW Botha
College, George Contact: Francois Ferreira at Eden School of Culinary Art on +27 (0)44 884-0765 for more
information. Garden Route Events
Plett Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Tuesday, 18 September 2012 to Wednesday, 26 September 2012)
Where: Plettenberg Bay Categories: Entertainment / Music Festivals
True jazz lovers will have the opportunity to see some of the country’s greatest jazz talents in action during
the annual Plett Festival (previously known as the Whiskey,
Whales & Jazz Festival) in Plettenberg Bay from 18-26
September. The festival has been expanded this year to a
week-long celebration featuring whiskey tastings, superb jazz
performances and spectacular whale safaris as well as loads of
sporting opportunities.
The festival officially kicks off on Saturday, 18 September, with
the welcoming of the whales and the opening concert at The
Whitehouse. Golfing enthusiasts can get their weekend off to a great start with the Golf Day at the
immaculate Goose Valley Golf Course. More adventurous visitors can gear up for the adrenaline rush of
the challenging Robberg Express multi-sport event. The Robberg Express includes a 40 km mountain biking
course through the Harkerville Forest on gravel roads and single tracks through sections of indigenous
forest, a 10 km trail run traversing million year-old rock formations on the Robberg Peninsula and a 10 km
ocean paddle in the beautiful Plettenberg Bay. Participants can enter as individuals or relay teams of two
or three persons. Athletes can also participate in individual disciplines. Event organisers have also added a
shorter version the Robberg Raggie with half distances in each discipline.
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Blue note events are staged throughout the week with artists of international calibre appearing at fu.shi
fusion cuisine, Gilly’s Grill, Surf Cafè and Bramon Wine Estate. The Heritage Day Jazz concert at Simunye
promises a celebration of true music.
The highlight of the weeklong festivities will most definitely be the Jazz Fusion Concert on Saturday. Don’t
miss top talent fresh off international jazz stages for an electric combination of eclectic classic and
contemporary jazz intertwined with the unmistakable rhythms of Africa. Well-known performers such as
Xolani Faku and friends, Sangam, Tucan Tucan, Offshore, Ben Badenhorst and Haydn Gardner will entertain
the crowds.
For the youngster, the Lunchbox Theatre is bringing their ever-popular production The Whale Show to
Plettenberg Bay to add to the festivities. This multi-lingual, interactive show promises to have audiences
spell-bound with catchy story-telling, mimes, puppets and scintillating music. Bitou Tourism will also be
sponsoring shows at The Crags Primary, Phakamisani Primary in Kwanokuthula, Formasa Primary in New
Horizons and Kranshoek Primary School.
The festival draws to a close with a spectacular street party on Saturday.
Contact: Bitou Tourism offices on 044-533 4065.
Garden Route Events
The Elvis Festival Africa
When: Friday, 21 September 2012 to Sunday, 23 September 2012 Where: Storms River Categories: Annual
Festivals / Entertainment
Since the inception of Africa's first and only Elvis Festival two
years ago, Storms River has experienced a retro revival like
you wouldn't believe!
The Marilyn’s 60’s Diner is home to this distinctive music
journey ‘The Elvis Festival Africa’ every year where you may
just find yourself hopelessly lost in the 50’s!
This year's theme will be ‘Elvis Meets his Friends', bringing
you the likes of Roy Orbison, Diana Ross, Frank Sinatra, Rod
Stewart, Grease and a many more 50’s and 60's legends to
the stage. This festival will rock the drabbest jailhouse and get
the dustiest of blue-suede shoes a-dancing.
And you don't need to be an Elvis fan - there's something for laaities and ladies alike. To all those Elvis
fanatics, the town brings together Elvis impersonators from all areas to sing, dance and celebrate the era.
So, if your travels are taking you along the Garden Route and up to the Eastern Cape sometime soon, add
to your journey a welcome break at the Storms River Village to experience a good and solid blast from the
past. The diner is open every day from 10h00 till late, and in summer holidays from 08h00 till late.
Venue: Marilyn's 60's Diner
Contact: Ann du Rand on +27 (0)82 920-6626Garden Route Events
Website: http://www.elvisfestival.co.za/
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Outeniqua Country Hop Strawberry Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 23 September 2012 to Monday, 24 September 2012)
Where: George Categories: Annual Festivals / Entertainment /
Food & Wine
The 2011 Outeniqua Country Hop Strawberry Festival will take
place at Redberry Farm in Geelhoutboom, George on Friday the
23rd and Saturday 24th September.
The Strawberry Festival is one of the most popular family events
of the year attracting both locals and visitors who come along to
experience a day out in the fresh air in a safe, farm
environment. Proceeds go towards the ongoing marketing of the route to encourage more people to visit
this wonderful part of the world which incorporates parts of George, Herold, Mossel Bay and Wilderness.
Employment opportunities for the local community are then created and a portion is also donated to local
charities.
This year, the "George all dog sports centre" will be performing with small and large dogs on both days
doing a dog jumping, agility and flyball display. To compliment this wonderful event, a ‘dog walk’ will be
held through the strawberry fields on the Saturday morning starting at 08h00 (or just a walk for those who
don’t want to bring a dog along !).
There is always a wide variety of stallholders exhibiting good food, local wines and cheeses, fresh veggies,
herbs and arts and crafts. Plenty of entertainment to keep both young and old busy from the Castle Corner
beer tent where “Daveymac” (an experienced one man band) will be performing live, to the exciting new
miniature steam train, the “strawberry express” and ‘bubble balls’ on the dam. Pony rides, strawberry
picking, strawberry eating competitions, zorbing, paint ball target shooting, jumping castles, tractor rides
and “Ronald Mcdonald” making a special appearance will add to 2 full days of family fun !
The primary school “scarecrow” building challenge theme for 2011 is “Lets Celebrate George”. The entries
will be on display during the Festival and the winning school will receive R5 000 along with the floating
Trophy. So if you’re visiting George, Wilderness or any other part of the Garden Route in September, be
sure not to miss the Outeniqua Hop Route Strawberry Festival for guaranteed family fun in an outdoor
farm environment ! Times: Friday 09h00 to 19h00 and Saturday 09h00 to 17h00
Venue: Redberry Farm in Geelhoutboom, George Contact: Nadine Bolttler on +27 (0)82 926-5928.
Website: http://www.outeniquacountryhop.co.za/ Garden Route Events
Talisman Herald Karoo to Coast 100km Mountain Bike Challenge
When: Dates to be confirmed (Tuesday, 25 September 2012) Where: Knysna Categories: Outdoor Events /
Sporting Events
Voted by Bicycling Magazine Readers as one of the top ten
mountain bike races in South Africa. April 2007 edition
Organised by the Lions Clubs of Knysna and Uniondale. In aid
of Lions "SightFirst" for sight restoration operations for the
poor.
Route
Uniondale to Knysna via the Prince Alfred's Pass 100 km
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offroad Race - Not for the faint-hearted, this is a great competitive race. Garden Route Events
Naturally Knysna Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 01 October 2012 to Sunday, 07 October 2012)
Where: Knysna Categories: Annual Festivals / Food & Wine
Naturally Knysna Preview Festival Information What does Naturally Knysna Preview Festival mean: The
Naturally Knysna Festival is intended to be a celebration and
showcase of what Naturally Knysna is about. The Preview
Festival this year gives us a taste of things to come. This year’s
theme and celebration focuses on connecting with and drawing
inspiration from nature and will include events and activities
that have a unique Knysna flavour to them.
Naturally Knysna is about rejuvenating and reinventing the
economy of Knysna based on natural systems functioning. It’s
about building a healthy economy from the bottom up, the way
nature does - creating a closed loop town that abounds with opportunities while taking care of our natural
beautiful environment that provides all our needs. Next year’s festival will highlight and celebrate this.
Nature Inspired Fashion Show
The gifts to Fauna and Flora naturally show us our instinctive approach to fashion. Some of us have
forgotten and seek elsewhere for this inspiration. Join us at the Parking Shed, Thesen Harbour Town where
the Nature inspired Knysna Market and Showcase is on show from 11h00 till 16h00. The main fashion
event will start at 14h00 sharp!
For full details and information about individual events please contact the festival organisers on +27(0)44
382-0078 Garden Route Events
The Ultimate Wicked & Wild Halloween Party
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 28 October 2012)
Where: Plettenberg Bay Categories: Concerts & Shows / Entertainment
Presenting the Ultimate Halloween Party in Plettenberg Bay!
This is going to be the biggest all-out Wicked & Wild costume
party in the ultimate scary venue that the Garden Route has
ever seen!
On the night of the 28th October, the beautiful Cairnbrogie
Barn on the Cairnbrogie Farm will be transformed into
something out of a horror movie with fantastic sound and
crazy lighting and some seriously killer décor!
Party all night to the awesome DJ's lined up including Mad Brad and the Rock & Roll Psycho Circus before
we switch to some House DJ’s later to keep you going all night long!
Enjoy all sorts of Halloween themed drinks, cocktails and shooters and loads of spooky surpises! And don't
forget there will be some fantastic prizes up for grabs for the best dressed. Its going to be wicked!
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Venue: Cairnbrogie Barn, Airport Road Directions: From Piesang Valley in Plettenberg Bay, take Robberg
Road out towards the Airport. Go past the airport and continue along until the road changes to a gravel
road and the venue will be a bit further along on your left hand side.
Tickets: R50 available from The Computer Shop, Longships House, Longships Dr
Contact: Wes on +27 (0)82 321-8177 or Schalk on +27 (0)72 932-9278
Eden Challenge
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 29 October 2012 to Tuesday, 30 October 2012)
Where: George Categories: Sporting Events
The 2011 Eden Challenge (200-260km’s) is the ultimate 30 hour event for the top teams. The teams can
expect classic adventure racing terrain. Real Southern Cape
splendor! Expect an ’Amazing Race” experience with great
mountain biking, awesome scenic hikes and brilliant
paddling.
I haven’t seen an AR like this before, so expect something
fresh. Navigational skills will dictate your time spent out
there. All maps & seconds instructions will be compiled by
GIS specialist. If you’re a multi sport guru, this one is for you!
Event layout: Teams and their support crew will be separated
at the start. The event starts off with a hiking section and race packs must be prepared for the first night
hike. Expect a hike of 70k’s, bike 150k’s and paddle 40k’s.
Contact: Jan Heenop on Cell: +27(0)82 455 2875
Garden Route Events
Summer Blast
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 10 December 2012 to Tuesday, 08 January 2013)
Where: Mossel Bay Categories: Entertainment / Outdoor Events
If you are looking for something to do in Mossel Bay over the
holiday season that the whole family can enjoy, then look no
further than Blasters.
There are activities, indoor and outdoor, for all ages,
delicious food in the a la carte restaurant, and lots going on
in the sports bar. There is a full program throughout
December and January including Braai buffets, DJ's, live
bands, shows, competitions, karaoke, and much more.
Christmas is a time for friends and family, so let us entertain
all of you together at Blasters. Highlights will be the candlelit
market on 21st December from 18h00, Carol singing on 24th December, a show of young local musical
talent on 28th December, our legendary Christmas Lunch, and of course New Year's Eve festivities. Some
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events will require advanced bookings, so please contact us if in any doubt.
Happy holidays, and see you in Mossel Bay.
Venue: Blasters, 23 Mascordor Street, Voorbaai, Mossel Bay
Contact: Rico on +27 (0)44 692-0521 for more information.
7’ Premier League, Outeniqua Park 14 and 15 December 2012
An exciting new sevens rugby tournament, named the 7’s Premier League, will hit Outeniqua Park, George
on the weekend of 14 and 15 December 2012.
The tournament, with a prize money of R1 million rand, will be run by the South Western Districts Rugby
Football Union, and in conjunction with Willem Strauss Sports Promotions.
The South African Rugby Union (SARU) already granted
permission last year, through their Games and
Competitions Committee, for the hosting of a Sevens
Tournament in George.
16 teams will participate in the competition. The president
of SWD Rugby, Hennie Baartman, said at the
announcement that the tournament fits the needs of his
union like a glove.“We have a responsibility to our
community to work hard and create opportunities. This
tournament fits that bill perfectly. We still have the capacity and people to host an event of this
magnitude.”
This will bring stability to the SWDRU and allow local much needed top flight rugby, he said.
It will also provide and economic boost to the region. “The whole region suffered when the International
Rugby Board World Series was moved from George and in talks with SARU, provincial government, local
municipalities and the business community all confirmed that we need something to replace it.”
Sports promoter Willem Strauss, who is well known in organising big rugby events, was tasked by the
SWDRU to run the event. According to Strauss, George was the logical choice as a venue and sevens the
perfect code to kick-start this new concept. “George hosted the IRB tournament successfully for many
years and has the infrastructure and ability to do something similar. The date of the tournament will also
suit the region perfectly as the Southern Cape will be awash with tourists from all over the country.”
Knysna Beach Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Sunday, 16 December 2012 to Monday, 17 December 2012)
Where: Knysna Categories: Annual Festivals / Entertainment / Outdoor Events / Sporting Events
Summer just got a whole lot hotter!
The Beach Festival will spice up your summer holiday with an
exciting blend of sports, live music, pampering and kids'
activities. Launched at Knysna's Buffalo Bay in the Garden
Route in 2009, this successful community event is making the
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beach the best place to be this summer.
Our line-up has something for everyone! Unleash your competitive spirit and play to win or just because
any sport sounds like so much fun when you add "beach" to it - beach volleyball, beach cricket, beach
rugby, beach soccer.
If you prefer to take time out in a gentler way, chill out to live music or be pampered in our beauty booths.
We're trying really hard to convince someone to fan you with palm fronds too. Kids know that the beach is
nothing less than a gigantic sandpit, which is why we've lined up a sandcastle competition for them, and
that the world is a miracle worth exploring hence our guided environmental beach walks. They also know
that face paint looks a lot better than white sunblock. We dare you. Venue: Buffalo Bay, Knysna Time:
10h00 to 16h00 Garden Route Events
Rock Pedal Classic MTB Tour
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 17 December 2012) Where: George Categories: Sporting Events
The event always starts in the traditional way, with a whip. At the crack of the whip they brave the
Montagu Pass and the 55km that lies ahead of them. As the
day continues and the cyclists enter the Little Karoo the
temperature rises, the conditions become harsh and
difficult. After 52km and only 3km remaining the sight of the
Daskop turn off is a welcome one and the Louvain sign post
is even more welcome.
Distance: 100km, 45km and 2km
Venue: NMMU Campus
Contact: Telephone +27 (0)44 871-4455
Garden Route Events
Carols by Candle light with Elephant Picnic
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 17 December 2012)
Where: Plettenberg Bay
Categories: Annual Festivals / Entertainment / Outdoor Events
Knysna Elephant Park together with Plett Aid Foundation is
hosting our yearly ‘Carols by Candle Light’ picnic and
entertainment evening on 17 December 2011 at 19h00.
Entrance fee is R50 for adults and kids bring an old toy /
clothing as an entry pass.
Founded in 1994, and the first of its kind in South Africa, the
Knysna Elephant Park provides a home for orphaned
elephants and offers visitors a taste of nature in an area
where vast herds once roamed. Join the elephants in their
controlled free-range environment where you will be able to appreciate their magnificent presence up-
close-and-personal.
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Guests will have the choice of bringing their own picnic or to pre-order a picnic basket from our restaurant.
Telephone Simon on +27 (0)44 532-7738 to book your picnic basket. Don't forget to bring a blanket.
Contact: +27 (0)44 532-7732
Venue: Knysna Elephant Park
Time: 19h00
Garden Route Events
Summer Sun Festival 2012
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 17 December 2012 to Monday, 07 January 2013)
Where: Mossel Bay
Categories: Annual Festivals / Concerts & Shows / Entertainment / Food & Wine / Music Festivals /
Outdoor Events
GET READY TO ROCK! with the 2011 Summer Sun Festival at the Diaz Strand Hotel.
If you are a fan of some of the best acts South Africa has to
offer, then there is no better place to get your fix than the
Diaz Strand Hotel this holiday season.
Some of the country’s best and brightest artists are
performing at the hotel during the December-January festive
season Summer Sun Festival programme.
Among others, is Africa's biggest rock 'n roll tour, Die MK Avontoer. In the spirit of a travelling carnival, Die
MK Avontoer mobilises a host of musicians, photographers, troubadours, magicians, pirates, fans and wild
cards into a travelling party of unmatched magnitude.
With over a 130 creative creatures concentrated on two buses, a travelling tent town of their own and
nothing other than a having a good time as their modus operandi, Die MK Avontoer has been enchanting
coastal towns from the West to the East coast since 2006.
The Diaz Strand Hotel will be the scene for a pool party of epic proportions with a stage, tents, bars and the
whole shebang outside, within arm’s reach of the swimming pool and Pirate’s Bar. Everything is set for the
party of the year on 29 December 2011.
Doors will open at 15h00 lining up acts like Loveglove Pyrotechnics, Black Handed Kites, No One’s Arc,
Holiday Murray, Zinkplaat, Van Coke Kartel, Die Heuwels Fantasties and Die Tuindwergies set to rock the
stage big time from 16h00 till late. Tickets are available on Computicket, at the gate and at the reception of
Diaz Strand Hotel.
If one night is not enough for you, check out the dates for artists like A-King and Piet Botha & Jack Hammer
in the Pero Diaz Theatre.
But if all the rock ‘n roll is just a little too much, don’t miss the incredible evening programme line-up of the
Pero Diaz Theatre at the hotel. With artists like Elizma Theron, Beeskraal, Heinz Winkler (with Charlize
Berg), Adam, Jan Blom, Jannie Moolman and Dozi (special guests at Miss Diaz finale), there is truly
something for everyone this festive season at the Summer Sun Festival. MISS IT, MISS OUT!
Contact: Mimi Finestone
Telephone: +27 (0)84 583-3144
Garden Route Events
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Sedgefield Beach Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Tuesday, 18 December 2012)
Where: Sedgefield
Categories: Annual Festivals / Entertainment / Outdoor Events / Sporting Events
The Beach Festival will spice up your summer holiday with an
exciting blend of sports, live music, pampering and kids'
activities. This successful community event is making the beach
the best place to be this summer.
Our line-up has something for everyone! Unleash your
competitive spirit and play to win or just because any sport
sounds like so much fun when you add "beach" to it - beach
volleyball, beach cricket, beach rugby, beach soccer. If you prefer
to take time out in a gentler way, chill out to live music or be pampered in our beauty booths. We're trying
really hard to convince someone to fan you with palm fronds too. Kids know that the beach is nothing less
than a gigantic sandpit, which is why we've lined up a sandcastle competition for them, and that the world
is a miracle worth exploring hence our guided environmental beach walks. They also know that face paint
looks a lot better than white sunblock. We dare you.
Venue: Myoli Beach, Sedgefield
Time: 10h00 to 16h00
Garden Route Events
Hartenbos Wine Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Thursday, 20 December 2012)
Where: Hartenbos
Categories: Food & WineTaste the different wines from wineries on our wine route and also buy it at the
festival.
There is a per person entrance fee and tasting hours will be
finalised closer to the time. This event is exclusive to the Klein
Karoo Wineroute.
Contact:
Klein Karoo Wineroute Office on (028) 572-1284
Garden Route Events
P a g e | 16
Mossel Bay Christmas Market
When: Dates to be confirmed (Thursday, 20 December 2012 to Saturday, 22 December 2012)
Where: Mossel Bay Categories: Arts & Culture
This market is a wonderful range of unique handmade, farmed
and baked gifts which would all make ideal Christmas
presents. So if you are a bit late on your Christmas shopping
this market in Mossel Bay will give you some wonderful ideas
to spoil those you love. Some of the products you will find will
be paintings, jewellery, aromatherapy products, beaded gifts,
clothing and much more. Games and activites will also be on
offer for the kids and teens in your lives.
Where? Address: Mossel Bay South NG Church Hall, cnr 15th
& 17th Avenue Contact Person? Cecile on +27 (0)82 224-3865
Please Note: Dates for this event to be confirmed. Garden Route Events
Bottomless Barrels Wine Festival
When: Dates to be confirmed (Friday, 21 December 2012) Where: George Categories: Annual Festivals /
Entertainment / Food & Wine
December is hot on our heels! Good news is that this means that it's
almost time again for the Bottomless Barrels Weltevrede Wine
Festival with Live performances by new popular local Afrikaans
band Adam and Emo Adams!
Weltevrede & Tramonto will be giving away accommodation,
wines and bubblies! Last year it was the launch of the Vanilla
Chardonnay and this year we will be entertaining you with a short
food and wine pairing, included in the ticket price.
The Kids Corner with jumping castle will provide a bit of rest for weary parents whilst enjoying the variety
of food stalls & bottomless barrels of the finest Weltevrede Wines!
Tickets are available at Computicket and at the entrance on the day.
Gates open: 16h00 Show starts: 16h30 Venue: Tramonto Venue Contact: +27 (0)44 870-7150 for more
information. Garden Route Events
Great Brak Grabadoo
When: Dates to be confirmed (Monday, 31 December 2012) Where: Great Brak Categories: Outdoor
Events / Sporting Events
The summer brings with it, just like Father Christmas, a festival
of fun in its festive bag, and one of the best fun family events is
the Great Brak Grabadoo cycling and running event, taking
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place on 31 December 2011.
By far the biggest sports event in the Southern Cape this summer, with 1000 entries in 2009, Race
organisers have already received queries from as far as Namibia about the event. The mountain bike and
road bike events have proven to be extremely popular every year with biking enthusiasts and everyone
from beginners to those serious cyclists training for the Argus find great fun (and training) in participating.
Once again, there will be a 5km and 10km walk, the ideal opportunity to rope in the entire family and walk
off those extra Christmas pounds. Great Brak Grabadoo, Garden Route . Whilst mountain bikers can
choose 15, 35 or even 55km routes. Road bikers can choose between the 20 or 40km routes. All the routes
traverse the picturesque area surrounding Great Brak River, and those in the know will tell you that this
sleepy town is one of the most beautiful scenic splendours along the Garden Route, and that there is no
better way to get up close and personal with its charm than when your tackies hit the tar or you pedal for
pleasure.
The first 1 000 entrants will receive a Go-Multi cycling magazine with their race numbers, so get your ducks
in a row and start practicing for 31 December to be able to ring in the New Year with a healthy advantage
(as well as a Great Brak Grabadoo medal).
All riders taking part in CSA sanctioned events are required to be a Member of CSA for the year in which
the race takes place, or to have a valid day license for every day of participation. Membership or a day
license is a race entry requirement and is thus a prerequisite to enter a race.
For more information, please feel free to contact Mimi Finestone on +27 (0)84 583-3144
Please Note: Dates for this event to be confirmed.
We thank SA Venues.com for all the event information, please note all the abovementioned dates are
subject to change without notification.