Freedom Day is a South African public holiday celebrated annually on 27 April. Commemorating the first non-racial democratic election held on the same day in 1994, South Africans spend the day in a variety of ways in celebration of new-found freedom across the country. There are several exciting events scheduled to take place over the 2013 Freedom day weekend. Luckily for us, the holiday falls on a Saturday this year, ensuring we can make a truly memorable weekend out of it.
Decorex, Cape Town
Cape Town’s favourite interior decorating show is taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 25 – 28 April 2014. The show will showcase Cape Town’s creative talent as well as feature international trends.
Tickets: R75 per adult, R65 per pensioner/student, and R15 per child under 12. Tickets available at the door. More info.
South African Cheese Festival
This exciting festival celebrates cheese and all things food. Held over the Freedom Day weekend at Sandringham farm, between Cape Town and Paarl, the festival will offer a variety of cheeses paired with fine wines, Gourmet Lane, Food Theatre Programme, a kiddie’s corner with clowns and face painters, and the Santam Agriculture Milk Factory where kids can pet cows, goats, and sheep, as well as watch them get milked. Bring your picnic blankets along to enjoy local bands.
Tickets: R130 per adult, R100 per pensioner, free for children under 12. Tickets available from Computicket. More info.
Freedom Day Swim
The Freedom Swim Series is a sequence of cold water Cape ocean swim races that celebrates our history and heritage on public holidays and raises money for good causes. While not held over the Freedom Day weekend, the swim will take place on 3 May 2014 and involves a new and improved 9km swim from Llandudno to Camps Bay. Friends and family are welcome to join in on the festivities on land and enjoy a day of swimming, music, drinks, food, kid’s games, and more. All funds will go towards Vista Nova School.
Prince Albert Olive Festival
The Prince Albert Olive Festival, held from 25 – 27 April 2014, features entertainment for the whole family. Visit the olive farms for tastings and learning about the olive making process. Highlights include local storytellers, fire dancers, and a Miss and Mr Olive Pageant. Enjoy an abundance of games and festivities, browse homemade crafts, and listen to a mix of steel bands, folk music, and rock ‘n roll.
More info: +27 (0)23 541-1366.
Where to stay?
Brenwin Guest House is a 3-star accommodation situated in De Waterkant, Cape Town. With 5 beautiful guest rooms, a swimming pool, braai area, and cosy guest lounge, Brenwin is the ideal place to spend a weekend in the city. More info.
Pelenechi Manor is 4-star accommodation in White River. Offering 11 comfortable double rooms and a beautiful garden with a swimming pool, braai area, and Jacuzzi, Pelenechi is a fantastic getaway in scenic Mpumalanga. More info.
Magoebaskloof Ruskamp is a family friendly lodge set in Haenertsburg, Limpopo. It features 30 family rondavels, some equipped for self-catering and others offering B&B rooms. Guests can enjoy a relaxing escape surrounded by lush vegetation and a sparkling swimming pool. More info.
What are you doing over the Freedom Day weekend?
