As summer winds down into all the colours of autumn (fall), you’d think that Cape Town might also slow down a bit. Not a chance. The turning of the seasons means much work for those in the outlying areas as farmlands yield fresh produce in abundance. Likewise, Capetonians celebrate this time of year by enjoying the fine, warm days, fresh mornings and crystal clear (much less windy) evenings together. We invite you to be part of the party.
Here are a few recent festivals that we love :
IN THE CITY: CAPE TOWN CARNIVAL.
Modelled on the Rio Carnival magnitude and magnificence in both, this street parade is all feathers, singing, dancing and delirium. Expect to be swept away in an ocean of glittering colour and movement, and have your heart stolen by the many floats that have been carefully and lovingly created as moving stages. Watch video here.
The Carnival is a close cousin to the traditional Minstrel’s Carnival (January) which celebrates the roots and rhythms of Cape Town’s spirit and sound. The simply-titled Cape Town Carnival focuses on a contemporary South African identity which includes the rest of the world as well. You should feel right at home… in Africa! Due to the growth of attendance, this year’s route followed the Cape Town Fan Walk on 24 March. Here are some photographs of the Cape Town Carnival festivities
Top Tip: If you attend next year, arrive early, park far away from the festival and take a MyCiti bus or a cab to the heart of the happiness. Best to wear comfy shoes and keep your valuables secure and hidden on your person – there is lots of jostling in the crowds.
Find out more:: try the Cape Town Carnival website / and read some reviews from revellers in 2011.
IN THE COUNTRY: WINE HARVEST FESTIVALS
Human Rights day 21 March is a day of tribute to the people who live and work in South Africa, and who help build this land, past, present and future. In the spirit of celebration, Feast of the Grape is a day of tribute to the humble fruit that forms part of South African lifestyle and business. At this annual event, you can pick a bunch, making your own wine, taste wine and take cellar tours. Prestigious participants include the farms of Altydgedacht, Bloemendal , D’Aria, De Grendel, Diemersdal, Durbanville Hills, Hillcrest, Meerendal and Nitída.
More wine, dear? In April, you can also enjoy : Breedekloof Cloudy Nouveau Wine Fest (15 April), Bloemendal Oyster & Wine Festival (23 April)
Top Tip: a designated driver is key to happy wine tasting. If you feel you’ve had a little too much fun in the sun and you’re above the legal limit, give Good Fellas a call, and they will send someone to drive you safely in convoy in your own car. If they’re busy, 1 Way can also help (may require subscription).
Find out more: Photos and programme available here
Tagged: autumn, carnival, fall, festival, harvest, Newsletter Mar 2012, outdoor, parade, street party, we recommend, wine, wine estate, wine farm, wine route |
