Local environmental organization, Greenpop, is set to host its annual flagship tree-planting and restoration event, Reforest Fest 2024 over Easter weekend.
Returning for its 12th year, from March 29 to April 1 2024, at Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat in the Overberg region, Greenpop’s Reforest Fest offers a diverse experience that connects people with nature, art, music, and community. Participants gather to plant thousands of trees and engage in workshops, classes, and live music performances.
Image by Thulani Swartbooi.
Tree planting and forest restoration
At the core of Reforest Fest is the commitment to environmental sustainability and the restoration of indigenous forests.
This year Greenpop’s goal is to plant 5000 trees over the weekend (and another 15,000 within the valley), a chance for festival goers of all ages to get their hands into the soil and make an impact.
Beyond the festivities, Reforest Fest also has a variety of interesting talks and workshops on the lineup, hosted by expert facilitators. Topics range from eco-anxiety to agency, sustainable living, and conservation, explore the forests or fynbos with experts to better understand the context of our diverse ecosystems.
Image by Christian Khayo.
Jeremy Loops – Greenpop’s Co-Founder – takes centre stage
Reforest Fest brings an extra layer of vibe with live music performances, from local and international bands and DJs.
One notable appearance is none other than Jeremy Loops, co-founder of Greenpop, who will be the headline artist at the fest. Known for his dynamic and soulful performances, Jeremy creates an atmosphere of huge fun for all ages. Jeremy’s involvement with Greenpop began in 2010 when he co-founded the cherished tree-planting organisation alongside Misha and Lauren Teasdale.
What initially began as a dinner conversation to plant 1000 trees during Arbor Month, has blossomed into the Greenpop we know today.
‘’Returning to the Reforest Fest is like coming home – the festival continues to be such a special reunion for so many of us. To have music, nature, and purpose intertwine, each moment in this forest is a step towards a greener legacy, a journey I’ve cherished since our first tree all those years ago. This year promises to be our most vibrant yet, and I’m so excited to be a part of this evolution with everyone,‘’ adds Jeremy Loops.
Image by Christian Khayo.
Rob Van Vuuren brings ‘Namaste Bae’
A healing ceremony unlike any you’ve ever experienced brought to you by the new age satirical guru taking social media by storm. Some say he was born with a bottle of kombucha in one hand and a yoga mat in the other during a Vedic Shadow Planet eclipse. Some say he takes all the psychedelics so you don’t have to. Some say he is still looking for a ticket to the Burn.
Whatever they say, Namaste Bae is the guru you both need and deserve. A self-proclaimed oracle of the Mother Scoby, Namaste Bae will help you find yourself inside yourself and with the power of comedic catharsis he will help you give birth to a better version of yourself. Namaste Bae is the globally viral brainchild of multi-award-winning South African comedian and actor Rob van Vuuren, and will provide you with a night of healing hilarity and titillating transcendence you won’t forget!
Image by Nardus Engelbrecht.
Glamp in a Luxury Bell Tent, or book a room
Not keen to pitch your own tent? Never fear, Reforest Fest has a glamping option. Guests have the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature without compromising on comfort, thanks to the carefully curated luxury bell tents. Each bell tent offers a spacious and cosy retreat, to elevate your stay at the festival.
Wholesome plant-based food
Attendees can indulge in delightful foodie experiences in the wholesome food village, where nourishing plant-based options are plenty. The festival emphasises sustainability by promoting a menu that is not only delicious but also aligns with ethical and eco-friendly practices by sourcing through farmers in the surrounding Stanford Valley.
Image by Christian Khayo.
Indulge In Unique Food Experiences:
1. Friday Foraged Feast with Veld & Sea
Join the Veld & Sea team on Friday at Reforest Fest for a sustainable forage in the forest, gathering natural materials for crafting flower crowns. This activity is free for festival-goers, so be sure to arrive early! Following the forage, savour the Veld & Sea Friday Foraged Tapas Feast featuring plant-based, seasonal, local, and wild ingredients. Indulge in family-style sharing platters of vibrant, wholesome, and healing food, paired with wines and botanical gin cocktails to enhance the experience. Best buy tickets for this one as it promises to be a hit!
Note that festival tickets are not included, and limited dining tickets are available.
2. Sunday Harvest Feast Celebrating the Flavours of the Overberg
The Sunday Harvest Feast was a firm favourite at Reforest Fest 2023, celebrating the diverse flavours of the Overberg region. Chef Bridget Bartleman from Kolossal Hospitality creates a feast that is a showcase of locally sourced, farm-fresh produce. Festival Goers purchase a ticket to the lunch and are treated to a buffet of delicious dishes, to be enjoyed on the lawns surrounded by the leafy green hilltops at Bodhi Khaya.
3. Unique Wine Tasting with WWF South Africa’s Conservation Wine Champions
Step into the Conservation Wine Tent for a one-of-a-kind wine-tasting experience. Partnering with WWF South Africa’s Conservation Wine Champions, Reforest Fest offers a selection of wines that bring a selection of interesting wines as well as the story of their conservation efforts. Participants can learn about the sustainable practices behind each bottle, chat to the teams from the various wineries, and learn more about how their choice of wine contributes to broader conservation initiatives. There’s also a Chocolate and Wine tasting experience on the Sunday…yum!
Bring the whole family
Reforest Fest is an event for all ages. From Forest School, to kids yoga, to nature exploration walks and fun educational activities, this is a super way to get your youngsters back in the wild! Note, there will also be nannies to look after kiddos if parents would like to nip out to have some solo time, or do a workshop sans kids.
Get your tickets
Get your tickets here: https://bit.ly/Reforest_Fest_tickets
Dates: 29 March – 1 April 2024
Location: Bodhi Khaya Nature Retreat
Learn more: www.reforestfest.com
Watch the Reforest Fest 2024 YouTube trailer here.
