Written by: Clifford Roberts; Photography: Johan Viljoen
The Swartland has some exciting events in November and December this year. We’ve assembled a list of some of the most prominent occasions sure to be worthy attractions for young and old. They include art and MTB events, picnics at the movies and more.
To help plan your break-away to the Swartland, take a look at the map of the area, which also contains the contact details of our local tourism offices.
Treat the family to a picnic and an open-air movie (Nov 4)
Kloovenburg’s forest venue, Kringe ini Bos, hosts its picnic and open-air movie night on Friday, November 4. The film is The Parent Trap, starring Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson. Each ticket includes a picnic, which can be collected from 17:30 on the day, and bottomless popcorn. There are two types of tickets available. A family picnic for two adults and two children is R600 (incl wine and juice); and, for two adults, R400. To book, send a WhatsApp to 071 657 1215.
The Swartland Street Party returns (Nov 5)
More than 20 wineries will be represented at the renowned Swartland Street Party, a wine tasting event that includes live music and street food. It takes place in Short Street, Riebeek Kasteel. The ticket, available at R600pp, includes local coffee, street food, a G&T on the Royal Hotel’s veranda; live entertainment; and, a goodie bag. The event takes place from 10:00 – 17:00 with street food sales starting at 12:00. No under-18s are permitted entry.
Head for Lammershoek for its Braai & Wines (Nov 12)
The Lammershoek Winery Braai & Wines is a regular event beloved as an informal get-together on a beautiful farm in the Paardeberg. On offer is a meal, wines, tractor rides around the vineyards and live music. There will be a jumping castle for the children and other activities too. The winemaker will lead tours through the Lammershoek cellar. The event takes place from 12:00 to 15:00. Tickets are R300pp. Children over eight years of age, pay R100.
The circus comes to Allesverloren (Nov 26)
Titled Cirque du Riebeek Valley, the daytime extravaganza at Allesverloren wine estate in Riebeek Kasteel promises “an immersive circus experience”. It includes silk dancers, fire dancers, a magic show, live music, face painting, games, and prizes. There will be popcorn, candy floss, burgers, and wines. Picnics will be available for pre-order too and may be enjoyed while you watch the show. Be sure to pack a blanket and cushions. The Cirque runs from 11:00 to 17:30. Tickets are R195.14/pp. Children under 12 pay R110.64. The price of the Allesverloren Tinta Rosé Picnic Box for two is R401.13. Bookings via Quicket.
Get arty at Art Unlocked (Dec 3/4)
The popular Art UNLOCKED returns to Riebeek Kasteel with more than 14 artists participating. The RVT Gallery 7 on Plein will also be open. The event features studios and shared venues. The event is not curated and is open to all artists who wish to exhibit their work. For more information, visit @ArtUnlockedRiebeekValley on Facebook.
Summer vibes at Org de Rac (Dec 10)
The wine estate of Org de Rac is famous for its chocolate-and-wine or oyster-and-MCC pairings, but also as a contemporary pioneer of organic vines in the Swartland. It will present its Summer Festival to benefit several local organisations. The programme kicks off early with a selection of fun runs and MTB events over a variety of distances. Food stalls open at 08:00 and wine and beer, an hour later. There will be a market, entertainment for children and live entertainment.
Royal Arts Town
