The never-ending bliss that is South Africa’s long weekend run is drawing to a sad close, forcing us to adapt back to 5-day weeks. And even though the prospect of having only two non-working days for every seven may seem bleak, there is still hope for our social lives. The last weekend in May brings enough festivals and entertainment to venues around the country that you’ll be able to at least make the most of this, suddenly short, phenomena that is the weekend.
Gauteng Events
Grand designs live
When: Friday 25 May to Sunday 27 May 2012
For the third year in a row, you can enjoy a showcase of the latest in contemporary home designs, with over 300 exhibitors strutting their stuff at the Coca-Cola Dome. Whether you want to redecorate the home, spice up a forgotten room or simply admire the innovative ideas of industry experts, the show promises to impress with everything from interiors, gardens, kitchens, bathrooms, home improvement, DIY, renovations, technology and even shopping.
Click here for more information or email [email protected]
Soweto Fashion Week
When: Thursday 24 May to Saturday 26 May 2012
Enjoy a fresh look at fashion and up and coming fashion designers from the different townships as they get the chance to showcase their work at the Soweto Hotel on Freedom Square. Expect to see many innovative designs aimed at the younger, working generation as well as pieces created from recyclable goods.
Click here for more information.
Jozi Craft Beer Festival
When: Saturday 26 May 2012
If you’ve fallen into a rut of drinking the same beer at every braai, then you should definitely make your way to the Greenside Pirates Rugby Club to try out some new, locally brewed craft beers. And if you’re already familiar with a few craft beers, then you’ll surely be surprised at just how many of these the country has to offer. Starting at 10h00, you’ll have an entire day to indulge in everything beer.
Click here for more information, or email [email protected].
Sasol Birds and Birding Fair
When: Saturday 26 to Sunday 27 May
A bird lover’s paradise, this annual fair will have you not only observing the wide variety of birds at the Johannesburg Zoo, but also learning about them and enjoying workshops to better spot them, or capture them on film. Stock up on some new binoculars, camera equipment, bird books, bird feeders and indigenous plants at the exhibition or chat to the folks from conservation organisations like the Endangered Wildlife Trust and FreeMe Rehabilitation Centre to learn more about the protected birds of South Africa. Drop the kids at the children’s play centre while you attend a lecture or photography workshop or join one of the hourly guided bird walks to test out your new equipment.
Click here for more information or email [email protected].
North West Province Events
Rustenburg Show
When: Sunday 27 May to Friday 1 June 2012
This annual agricultural festival will keep you entertained for more than just a weekend. Head over to the Rustenberg Show Grounds for an entire week of agricultural championships and auctions for livestock, cattle, poultry and other farm animals. You can also expect performances from local artists and a fun, outdoor environment.
Contact +83 601 1576 for more information.
Oppiewerf Arts and Antiques Fair
When: Saturday 26 May 2012
Whether you want to expand your painting and antiques collection, enjoy looking at the beautiful decorative pieces of yesteryear or if you simply want a hearty, homemade meal on a chilly Winter’s day, then President Pretorius Museum in Potchefstroom is the place to be. The festival promises many collectors items and a range of beautiful paintings as well as freshly baked goods, potjiekos and ample amounts of pancakes. The festival also has a different exhibition every year that replicates a slice of life from the olden days, so you might also get the chance to see how a blacksmith or local trader spent their days.
Contact +18 299 8036 for more information.
Western Cape Events
The Good Food and Wine Show
When: Thursday 24 May to Sunday 27 May 2012
A celebration of all things delicious, this is South Africa’s premier food, wine and lifestyle show and it will once again be held in the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Expect to see celebrity chefs and foodies to the likes of Buddy Valastro, Whitney Miller and Ariana Bundy as they demonstrate their signature dishes in the Chefs in Action Theatre or satisfy your sweet tooth at the, rather deliciously named, Lindt Chocolate Appreciation Theatre. Taste brandies, learn how to cook healthy meals or simply sit back with a cocktail at the Amarula Lounge – incidentally constructed entirely from recyclable Xanita boards.
Visit here for more information.
Gugs Wine Festival
When: Friday 25 May and Saturday 26 May 2012
Enjoy a slice of township life at this, completely contrasting, food and wine experience. Hosted on the roof of the Gugulethu Square Mall, this festival promises liveliness, friendliness and over 300 different wines to taste. You can either wander from stand to stand, picking the ones you want, or take the festival guide in one hand, your glass in the other, and work your way through all of them- not necessarily the most advisable approach, but at least you know it’s possible.
Tickets are available at www.webtikets.co.za or at the door. Click here for more information.
Decorative and Fine Art Auction
When: Friday 25 May to Wednesday 30 May 2012.
Stephan Welz & Company are true experts when it comes to antiques and collectable paintings, so if you feel like hunting for a bargain or purchasing an investment, then make your way to Alpen Estate in Constantia to place your bid or simply take a look around. Two pieces well worth noting are ‘Two Women’ by Matisse protégée Maurice van Essche and an 18th century Cape stinkwood, ebony and satinwood bureau bookcase. You can also expect to find many collectable jewellery pieces, arts, ceramics and even cars. Public viewing will take place from 25 to 27 May while the auction will happen on 29 and 30 May.
Click here for more information on Stephan Welz & Company or email [email protected].
Wine Concepts Burgundy Lover’s Festival
When: Sunday 27 May 2012
If your weekend was full to the brim with activities and exhibits, then this relaxed Sunday afternoon celebration of the Cape’s finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays might be just your thing. Held at the Vineyard Hotel and Spa in Newlands, you’ll have the chance to purchase all wines at a 10% discount or you can simply stroll around the lawns (weather permitting) and sip on wines from more than 30 of the country’s top producers.
Click here for more information or email [email protected]
Hike Table Mountain with Getaway
When: Sunday 27 May 2012
Join Getaway and local nature-lovers on this full-day hike up Corridor Ravine and expect to enjoy a different perspective of the beautiful Table Mountain. The hike is approximately 10km long and you’ll have to have a fairly good level of fitness to really enjoy these beautiful surrounds. The group will be split up in smaller groups to accommodate different pace preferences, so don’t worry about anyone holding you back. R50 includes a trail pack as well as some Hi-Tec goodies to take home.
Contact Tracy-Lee on +21 530 3379 or [email protected]
Eastern Cape Events
Rallye Raid
When: Thursday 24 May to Sunday 27 May 2012
This annual biking event will satisfy the adrenalin and scenic needs of anyone who enjoys a bit of adventure biking. Spend four days biking along the incredibly scenic Wild Coast, enjoying small luxuries like hotel accommodation and having your kit transported for you. With three different trails to choose from, you can either challenge your concentration or simply enjoy an adrenalin fuelled ride along this magnificent coastline. Only 100 entries are taken, so book your spot now.
Click here for more information.
Kwa-Zulu Natal Events
The Royal Show
When: Friday 25 May to Sunday 3 June 2012
This long standing, premier agricultural show will not only bring you the best of the region’s cattle, rabbits, sheep, goats and birds but also a wide range of fun and awe-inspired entertainment. Expect to see a motorbike trapese act that will keep you on the very edge of your seat, a show from the highly reputed Flying Lions Aerobatic Formation Team and performances from local artists to the likes of Lee Vaughn, Kurt Darren, Deirdre, Die Campbells and Mango Groove. There will also be sheep petting for the kids and competitions for birds, livestock and agricultural produce.
Visit The Royal Show’s website for more information
Mpumalanga Events
Uplands Festival
When: Friday 25 May to Sunday 27 May 2012
If you happen to find yourself close to White River over the weekend, then this festival will definitely supply entertainment for the entire family. Enjoy live theatre, buy some local produce at the country market, let the kids have their fun with a range of activities and enjoy a drink and a delicious, hearty lunch at the beer marquee while listening to some live jazz, imported all the way from Mozambique.
Click here for more information or email [email protected].
