Heritage Day Events – What will you be doing?

Thursday 24 September is a public holiday in South Africa (Heritage day) which means that you should have the day off – What are you going to do with your time? If you are lucky enough to have Friday off as well have a look at some of these ideas on how you can make the most of your long weekend …

Paarl Cultivaria

In Cape Town & the Western Cape:
For a bit of laughter why not book a ticket to the Nando’s Cape Town Comedy Festival that has been making the people of Cape Town laugh since 13 September and will continue to do so until 4 October 2009. Held at various locations around Cape Town, some of the world’s hottest comedy acts will have you howling with laughter from the Main Arena at the Baxter Theatre in Rondebosch to the not for the faint hearted Danger Zone. Tickets are available at Computicket.

The Paarl Cultivaria Festival runs from Wednesday 23 to Sunday 27 September 2009 and you can be assured that your mind, body and soul will be fed. Theatre, dance, comedy and classics will be on show and as well as wine tastings and daily cooking demonstrations. For more information about the event contact the Cultivaria Festival office on +27 (0)21 872-9754.

More events at: Cape Town Events

Knysna Gastronomica

In the Garden Route:
Knysna on the Garden Route hosts Gastronomica from Thursday 24 to Monday 28 September 2009 and is a feast for the whole family. You can expect loads of food to fill your bellies, dance demonstrations to allow your eyes to sparkle, music to soothe your ears and cooking demonstrations and talks from the experts to give you inspiration. Children have not been forgotten as there will be plenty of activities to keep them entertained and occupied. You can contact Carla or Pat for more information on +27 (0)44 302-5749.

More events at: Garden Route Events

In the Eastern Cape:
The Northern Arts Festival in Port Elizabeth will be a harmony of culture, traditions and heritage as thousands of spectators are set to attend this festival. Expect to a  world class programme of music and dance performances. The NAF Sky’s the Limit Talent Search that has been taking place for the last few months will be showcasing some of the most energetic dancers, singers, rappers and talent that is sure to impress the audience. Make sure you don’t miss out because you may be seeing one of South Africa’s new emerging stars! For more information contact Billy Paulson on +27 (0)82 443-2207

More events at: Eastern Cape Events

Kalahari Kuierfees

In the Northern Cape:
Upington hosts the Kalahari Kuierfees from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 September 2009 and has cultural activities as well as sports on offer. On Saturday you can take part in the half marathon or cycle race as well as a number of other sporting activities. If you would prefer to relax a bit you are able to do so in the “kuiertent” which houses the food and beers stalls as well as a number of entertainment acts.  The festival culminates in a fabulous fireworks display. For more information and programme details contact the festival office on +27 (0)54 332-1100.

More events at: Northern Cape Events

In Durban & KwaZulu Natal:
An annual provincial music business expo takes place from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 September 2009 in Durban Central. The KwaZulu Natal Music Imbizo will host a number of the key industry players in the music industry under one roof an over the 3 days will find ways of improving the KwaZulu Natal music industry. Anyone who is involved in music is encouraged to present, exhibit or take part. You might even meet one of your favourite local stars. For more information contact Creative Lead on +27 (0)31 201-6343.

White Mountain Festival

The Body Show in Durban showcase the best in health, body and beauty with exhibitions from an array of therapies and products which include Aromatherapy, Reiki, beauty therapists, make-up and more. Come and take some time out for yourself from Thursday 24 to Sunday 27 September 2009. For more information telephone +27 (0)78 339-8300 or +27 (0)31 572-3831.

If four days of laid-back acoustic music is exactly what you need, then head down to Giants Castle in Central Drakensburg for the White Mountain Folk Festival from 24-27 September 2009. Some of the country’s most established as well as up and coming musicians will perform for you in an acoustic setting. Activities such as boating, fishing, hiking and family activities as well as food and beer stalls will be available and those who are a bit more adventurous can take a helicopter flip or abseil down a 45m cliff face. Tickets are available from Computicket or at the festival gate and include your camping cost as well festival entry. Contact the organiser on +27 (0)31 563-0824 for more information.

More events at: KwaZulu Natal Events

Summer Festival

In Johannesburg & Gauteng:
Summer is just around the corner and Gauteng is celebrating this at the Summer Festival on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2009. Some of South Africa’s best known artists, over 200 exhibition stands, food stalls and a Beer Fest will keep you entertained. Tickets are only R60 for adults and children under 12 are free of charge. Moms, dads and grandparents can enjoy the sounds of Steve Hofmeyer while the younger generations jump about to the sounds of Watershed. Contact +27 (0)86 038-3689 for more festival details.

More events at: Gauteng Events

There are so many things happening it will be hard to decide how you will spend your time, but whatever you do ensure you keep Heritage Day in your mind and use this weekend to celebrate what makes South Africa a unique and wonderful Country.

Useful Links:
South Africa Events
Things to Do in South Africa
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