Events This Week 27 May - 2 June

As Winter announces its arrival in the Western Cape, here are events to warm you up for this week...

Panic by Siv Ngesi will start its run from tonight through until 8 June at the Artscape, tickets are available through Computicket and Dial-a-seat.

The Big Band Jazz Festival is taking place at The Baxter Theatre from 29 May till 1 June, the monies raised by the festival will be going to good causes, tickets available through Computicket.

At the CTICC, The Sign Africa & Africa Print Roadshow is taking place on 29 and 30 May, entrance is free.

From 31 May to 2 June, the Greyton Genadendal Classics for All Festival is taking place in the charming Overberg towns of  Greyton and Genadendal, various events have been planned for the festival including concerts, poetry recitals as well as wine tastings and food to name but a few. At the same time in the Klein Karoo town of Ladismith, the Ladismith "Lekka" weekend is taking place, performances by well-known musicians have been planned as well as food stalls and an equestrian show. Also during this time in, Prince Alfred's Hamlet, near Ceres, is hosting the Karoo Cultural Festival, where old traditions and Karoo culture are to be highlighted.  

On 31 May at the Grand Arena at Grand West, US band, Chevelle will performing, tickets available through Computicket and The Kyle Shepherd Trio will be performing on 31 May and 1 June at the Mahogany Room, reservations can be done through the club. 

The Ballroom Bands Festival is taking place at the Grand Arena at Grand West on 1 June, put on those dancing shoes and waltz the night away. 

Hartenberg Wine Estate in Stellenbosch is hosting its Shiraz and Charcuterie Festival, the finest Syrahs from leading cellars will be paired with meaty delights sure to tantalize the taste buds on 1 June.

Being the 1st Saturday of the month of June, both the Riebeek West Funky Fresh Market as well as the Caledon Millstone Market are taking place and are sure to provide an array of delectable eats and goodies.

1 June is World Environment Day, in honour of this, Fish Hoek Yacht Club will be taking part in the world-wide Paddle for the Planet Initiative, see link for more information.

The Karoo Game Auction is taking place on 1 June as well as the Karoo Outdoor Festival near Beaufort West, see links for more info.

On 1-2 June, the Accessories Fair will be on at the Market on the Wharf at the V&A Waterfront, the Soup, Sip and Bread Winter Feast will be taking place in the Durbanville Wine Valley and the 1st Winter Trail Run will be taking place at Delvera Farm in Stellenbosch. 

On 2 June, the Kenilworth Race Course will host  Day 2 of the Winter Racing Series, kids entertainment as well as stalls will be available through the day.

For these and other events please see our events calendar.

Events 20 - 26 May

With trade shows, centenaries, good food, wine and music, cultural celebrations and sporting activities, this week is set to be a busy one...

The Chelsea Flower Show Exhibit is on at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens all this week until Saturday. The gardens will also be celebrating its Centenary and Biodiversity Day on Wednesday with free entry to the garden, a host of other activities are planned as well.

Wesgro will be taking a few companies over to Brazil for the Hospitalar 2013 Trade Exhibition from 21 - 24 May. The expo focuses on products, equipment, services and technology for the medical sector.

On Tuesday evening, internationally renowned rapper Snoop Dogg, A.K.A Snoop Lion, will be taking to the stage at the Grand Arena at Grand West, tickets are available through Computicket.

The annual Good Food and Wine Show is taking place at the CTICC from 23-26 May, headlining the event are internationally acclaimed chefs Gordon Ramsay and Eric Lanlard. More treats for gourmands is the Tops Gugulethu Wine Festival is taking place on 24 and 25 May at the Rooftop @ Gugulethu shopping Centre.

From 23 - 25 May the skies above Oudtshoorn will be filled with the sounds of the President's Trophy Air Race. Also in Oudtshoorn, the Wilderness Half Marathon and 10km is taking place on the 25th.

Net Prophet, South Africa’s biggest technology start-up event is taking place in Pinelands on Thursday 23 May. And at the Southern Sun Hotel at The V&A Waterfront, Unogwaja Challenge is kicking off the first leg to Franschhoek, as they take on the 10 day challenge to Pietermaritzburg.

On 24 and 25 May, Music Alla Kaap is taking place at the Grand Arena at Grand West, legendary US musician Percy Sledge will be on stage along with other well-known South African musicians.

The Eseltjiesrus Annual Book Fair  is taking place this weekend 24-26 May in McGregor in the Overberg Region. All proceeds from the annual book sale during the fair will go to a good cause.

Africa Day, a celebration in honour of the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), presently recognised as the African Union (AU), is on 25 May. Artscape will be hosting a celebration, see link for more information.

Footloose in Darling and the Darling Museum Open Day is taking place on 25 May in the charming West Coast town. Please see the links for more on the events.

On the sporting front, the Stormers vs Reds match takes place at Newlands Stadium on Saturday at 5pm and for mountain bikers the 100 Miler event is taking place in Malmesbury and the Hex River Autumn Splendour in De Doorns. In celebration of the full moon on Saturday night there will be a Full Moon Hike in Stellenbosch and the Moonlight Mass cycle event in Green Point. On Sunday the Voet of the Wine Route 10km Run/Walk is taking place in Stellenbosch. For more info on these events please see the links.

For these and more events, please visit our events calender.

Events 13-19 May

Wesgro's stand at Indaba 2013 has been awarded gold, well done and congratulations to the team! If you are in Durban, be sure to check it out at the Durban ICC until tomorrow. Visit the Cape Town Western Cape Facebook page for pics...

African Utility Week is taking place at the CTICC from 13-16 May, the event is aimed at Africa's power and water industries. The Clean Power Africa expo is running alongside this event on the 14th and 15th, also at the CTICC.

The comedy Twitch is starting its run at the Theatre on the Bay 15 May until 1 June.

The Table Bay Hotel is playing host the 2013 Marketing Indaba on 15 and 16 May. The Sales Summit will run alongside the event on the eve on the 15th at the Table Bay as well.

Wesgro's EDP programme is hosting a seminar specifically focused on agri-processing and the beverages industry and its prospects in the Russian market. The seminar will take place at the Wesgro offices, Doega Boardroom on the 15th of May.

From 16 to 18 May, legendary South African rockers Arno Carstens and Francois Van Coke are performing at the Boer in Durbanville.

Agulhas National Park is hosting a Southern Tip Day Talk and Meal at Suiderlig Dienssentrum in Struisbaai on Friday 17 May at 7pm.

The 2013 Student Expo is taking place at the CTICC on 17 and 18 May, the perfect platform for students to engage with prospective employers.

Wellington Stasie Fees, a festival in celebration of the Wellington Station's 150 year heritage is taking place on 17 and 18 May with lots of entertainment and eats scheduled.

The Franschhoek Literary Festival is taking place 17-19 May for a weekend filled with readers, writers, booksellers and publishers. At the same time, the 2nd weekend of the Greenpop Reforest Fest is taking place at Platbos Forest in the Overberg.

On 18 May, the 5 for Change Charity fundraiser is taking place at City Hall. The black tie affair is set to be an evening of fun with performances by Goldfish and The Rudimentals.

International Museum Day is on the 19th of May, in celebration, Iziko museums is granting free entrance to all Iziko museums, including the Planterium and Castle of Good Hope.

British celebrity chef, Eric Lanlard, is launching his new book "Chocolat" along with a book signing at Simonsig Wine Estate, ahead  of his appearance at the Good Food and Wine Show next week.

For these and more events please visit our events calender.

If you have anything to add please feel free to comment below.

Indaba 2013, Mothers’ Day and other highlights this weekend…

Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events in Africa and, according to indaba-southafrica.co.za, one of the top three events of its kind globally. The annual four day event (11-14 May) attracts a large number of visitors from the travel and tourism industry and showcases South Africa’s best tourism products, what better platform for Wesgro to illustrate our wonderful province to the world. Visit Cape Town and Western Cape Stand DEC1 F11, meet our team and experience what we have to offer.

Activities this weekend

 In Stellenbosch, Wild Clover’s Hops Harvest Festival (10-12 May) is sure to entertain young and old with beer tasting for the adults and entertainment for the kiddies. The festival is in celebration of the close of a successful harvest and will showcase a variety of hand-crafted beers. Entry is R100, kids under 18 are free, and on Sunday entrance for moms is complimentary.

The first of the two weekend Greenpop Reforest Fest in Platbos Forest (10-12 May) is themed around families with “chilled” music and educational activities for all. There will of course be tree planting, the main focus of the festival, protecting and growing the ancient forest. Tickets cost R550 (R350 for children under 12) and includes camping, meals, entertainment, tools and trees.

The annual Nuy Valley Feast in Worcester (11-12 May) is set to keep you entertained with activities such as a mountain bike competition, vineyard trails as well as tractor and wagon rides. Top quality wines from the hosting wineries will be on offer as well as olive products. Entrance costs R40 and kids under 18 are free.

Organik Love Project, the final event on the trance festival calendar for the year is taking place at Utopia farm near Caledon (11-12 May). Tickets cost R220-R250.

On Saturday, the Ceres Chrysanthemum Association will be showcasing the works of local chrysanthemum growers. Entrance cost R10.

The Table of Peace and Unity is bringing together 700 celebrities, leaders and ordinary citizens from all walks of life to enjoy a delectable lunch on Table Mountain in aid of organisations that help against rape and abuse. Tickets available through Computicket and range between R400-R500.

For those that are more adventurous and sporty, the Red Stone Mountain Bike & Trail Running Family Weekend is taking place in Calitzdorp (10-11 May), there will be mountain biking trail running as well as other family activities on offer. The Willow Creek/Computer Mania MTB Challenge is taking place in Robertson on Saturday and if running is your thing, the Autumn Trail Run is taking place in Stellenbosch at Delvera Farm and Wheels and Runners, a race for able bodied as well as athletes in wheelchairs, is taking place in Hermanus. On Sunday, the Jive Slave Route Challenge will take runners through the historical sites of Cape Town such as the Castle, District Six and Bo Kaap.

For this and more events please visit our events calendar.

Mothers' Day

Sunday is Mother’s Day, and to celebrate, why not treat mom to some TLC at one of the world-class spas we have in the Western Cape. Why not pack a picnic, if the weather holds out, and visit one of the many idyllic picnic spots we have to offer. Many restaurants are offering specials for Mother’s Day, visit our Facebook for more details. 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!

Some restaurant specials this Mothers' day:

Cape Town

The Vineyard Hotel and Spa in Newlands, Cape Town is offering  3 course lunch special at R225.

Mom and Me and The Grand Cafe and Beach, dinner and a show for R450.

Hermitage at Hazendal Wine Estate in Kuils River is offering buffet lunch for R280.

Overberg

Stormsvlei Farmstall and Restaurant in Swellendam are offering a lunch buffet at R195.

The Daily Bread in Hermanus will be serving up breakfast for R90 or a 3 course lunch special for R175.

Rivendell in Bot River is having a 4 course lunch special for R250.

De Hoop Nature Reserve is offering one nights free accommodation for mom (provided one of her children are with) this weekend as well as a lunch special at The Fig Tree Restaurant. 

West Coast

Slipway Waterfront Restaurant in Saldanha is serving up a delectable lunch for R120.

Geelbek Restaurant in the West Coast National Park is offering a lunch special at R175.

Hilda's Kitchen at Groote Post in Darling is having a 3 course lunch at R175.

Windtown Lagoon Hotel and Spa is offering an accommodation special, R1000 for a one nights stay which includes a day of pampering spa treatments.

Garden Route and Klein Karoo

Henry White's at Fancourt in George is offering a 4 course lunch for R325.

Katrina's at the Kurland Hotel in Plettenberg Bay is serving up buffet lunch at R250.

Knysna Yatch Club is offering a delicious 3 course lunch, call to find out the cost. 

Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in Oudtshoorn is having a lunch buffet special for R195.

Winelands

Bodega Restuarant at Donier in Stellenbosch is offering a 3 course lunch ranging between R280-R360.

Die Tolhuis in Ceres is having a 3 course lunch special for R110.

Glen Carlou is Klapmuts is serving up a delectable 3 course lunch for R320.

*Most restaurants require bookings and offer reduced rates for children.

Events 7 – 12 May

Apologies, due to technical difficulties there have not been any posts over the past week.

National Archives Week is currently taking place until Friday. Scheduled activities include guided tours, presentations about the functions of the Archives Service, workshops and exhibitions and are conducted at the Western Cape Archives and Records Service.

APAS Fair, the largest Supermarket Fair in Latin America is taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Our very own Wesgro representative has taken 10 companies along to the fair in order to create business opportunities. For more information on the services Wesgro provides please visit the website.

The Africa Investor CEO Infrastructure Investment Summitis taking place at the Table Bay Hotel today. See link for more information.

The WIE Africa Symposiumis taking place at the Lookout, V&A Waterfront until tomorrow. WIE Africa aims to showcase successful African Women.

This week is a busy one for Cape Town Stadium… tonight legendary rock band Bon Jovi will be performing and tomorrow evening, teen sensation, Justin Bieber will be serenading the city.

The CTICC is hosting the World Economic Forum on Africa 2013 from 8-10 May. WEF Africa aims to provide a platform to address the continents economic growth and development.

On Wednesday evening, Harvey’s at the Winchester Mansions Hotel will be hosting a Grapes, Gourmet and Gallery Evening showcasing wines from Muratie Wines and art from Ann Nosworthy.

Fine Brandy Fusion, SA’s premier brandy expo will be taking place on 9 and 10 May at the CTICC. The event is set to launch the new Urban Brandy Cocktail Route, which “takes the visitor from Clifton to the CBD in style.”

From 10 – 12 May, Wild Clover in Stellenbosch is hosting the Wild Clover’s Hops Harvest Festival, the festival’s focus will be on beer tastings and speciality brews. At the same time, at Platbos Forest in the Overberg, Greenpop is hosting the Reforest Fest. The aim of the festival is to protect and grow the ancient Platbos forest which houses trees that are over 1000 years old.

Red Stone Mountain Bike & Trail Running Family Weekend is taking place on 10 and 11 May is the Klein Karoo town of Calitzdorp. There will be lots to do for runners/bikers and spectators alike.

The Tourism Indaba will be taking place from Saturday 11 May until Tuesday 14 May, at the Durban ICC. The Wesgro marketing team will be hosting a stand at the event showcasing Cape Town and the Western Cape.

On 11 and 12 May, the Nuy Valley Feast will be taking place in Worcester, sporting as well as entertainment events have been planned as part of the festivities. The Organik Love Project, a psytrance festival, will also be taking place at the same time at Utopia Farm, near Caledon. 

On Saturday, 11 May, the annual Ceres Chrysanthemum Show is taking place in the charming Winleands town. Robertson is playing host to the Willow Creek/ Computer Mania MTB Challenge at Willow Creek Estate and Hermanus is hosting Wheels & Runners, a race that includes both people with disabilities in wheelchairs and able-bodied athletes. 

Sunday, 12 May is Mother’s Day, the Vineyard Hotel and Spa is hosting Delightful Deliciousness for Mums, a three course lunch in honour of mothers. 

Jive will be hosting the Slave Route Challenge on Sunday 12 May, the marathon is the first of its kind to take participants through the historical sites of Cape Town.

For these and other events please visit our Events Calender.

What to do this Worker’s Day…

Worker’s Day, also known as International Worker’s Day and May Day, is celebrated in many countries, in many different guises. 

The history of May Day goes back many centuries and has its roots in paganism. The history of Worker’s Day goes back to the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago where workers were protesting for shorter working hours. As the police were trying to disperse the crowd, a bomb was thrown at them and they retaliated with live ammunition, killing and injuring scores of unarmed protestors. In 1889, May 1 or May Day protests were recognized as an annual international event and subsequently 1 May had many riots and demonstrations in the coming years. Eventually many countries adopted 1 May as a public holiday and in 1955 the Catholic Church dedicated the day to St Joseph The Worker.

In South Africa, May 1 was officially pronounced a national public holiday in 1994 under the name Worker’s Day. Its origins are still of those workers and their trade unions that struggled internationally for fair employment standards and worker’s rights. Pre-1994, the day was became a rallying point for workers and trade unions as well as anti-apartheid demonstrations.

Well the days of fighting for equal rights whether as a worker or a general human being have passed, so we have compiled a list of some things to do this Worker’s day…  

The Assembly is hosting “SA’s biggest tennis party,” Love All: 'A party for workers day' tonight. Doors open at 7pm and tickets cost R50-R70 available through Computicket or at the door.

The Canal Walk Motor Show is on until tomorrow evening and is set to get any petrol head’s engine revving. Competitions giveaways are up for grabs and definitely worth the visit.

The Bay Harbour Comedy Supper Club is sure to give you your dose of laughter this Worker’s Day. Comedic magician, Magic Man (Andrew Eland) will be headlining this event hosted by Dugald Pieterse. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets available online and at the Boom Bar at the Bay Harbour Market and cost R70-R90.

At 5pm the Cape Town Stadium will come alive to the sounds and vuvuzelas and cheering as Ajax Cape Town takes on Kaizer Chiefs. Tickets are available through Computicket from R40 to R80.

Bring the family down to Noordhoek Farm Village who are hosting an afternoon Community Carnival in celebration of Worker’s Day. Events are planned for 2pm-5pm and entrance is free.

SAMA Award winner, Manie Jackson will be performing at the Bravo Lounge at the Garden Route Casino in Mossel Bay at 7.30pm. Tickets are available through Computicket at a cost of R80.

Why not absorb some culture and head to the Kalk Bay Theatre for the opening night of Song and Dance, a comedy set to leave you in stiches. Don’t Dress For Dinner is on at the Theatre on the Bay in Camps Bay and the David Krut Projects art exhibition is on at the Montebello Design Centre. There will be two performances at the Sound on Screen Film Festival at the Labia Theatre on Orange on May 1.

The Cederberg Kunstefees (Art Festival) kicks off in Clanwilliam tomorrow. The line-up of events and performances is available on the website and can be booked through Computicket. The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Art Festival also begins tomorrow in Knsyna.

Villiera Wines in Stellenbosch is hosting the Miles for Smiles Fun Run.  The run/walk is in aid of Operation Smile South Africa who provides free surgeries to repair cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial deformities on children. So put on your takkies and give to a good cause. Delvera farm, also in Stellenbosch is hosting the All-Mountain Enduro MTB Race.

In Wellington the annual Safari Half Marathon will be taking place for the 26th time. The marathon has become one of the highlights in the athletics calendar and is sure to be centred around fun festivities.

If these activities do not tickle your fancy, why not spend some quality time with the family and have a braai, a big lunch or even a picnic - make the most of what’s left of the sunshine before the Cape Town winter sets in.

Events this week 29 April – 5 May

Song and Dance begins on 1 May at the Kalk Bay Theatre and will run until 9 May.

The annual Cederberg Arts Festival will take place from 1 – 5 May in the West Coast town of Clanwilliam.

In the Garden Route the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival will be taking place from 1 – 5 May in Knsyna.

Afrikaburn, South Africa’s answer to the Burning Man Festival, is taking place at Tankwa Karoo National Park from 1 – 6 May.

Khwa Ttu, in Yzerfontein, is hosting Encounters with the Foster Brothers on 1 May.

Villiera Wines in Stellenbosch is hosting a fun run/walk in aid of charity on Wednesday, 1 May, the Miles For Smiles Fun Run.

The Safari Half Marathon is taking place in the Winelands town of Wellington on Wednesday, 1 May.

The ballet performance of Camille will be running at the Artscape Opera House from 2 – 12 May.

De Hoop Nature Reserve is hosting a Collection Yoga Retreat with YogaSpirit & Kate Ball over the weekend, from 3-5 May.

Hip Hop Explosion will be bringing the Zula Sound Bar alive on Friday, May 3.

The Woodmill Market in Stellenbosch plays host to the Barista Coffee Festival on Friday, May 3.

Peaches and Herb will be performing at the Grand Arena, Grand West on Saturday, May 4.

Riebeek Valley, in the West Coast, will be hosting its annual Olive Festival this weekend, 4 - 5 May. 

On Saturday, 4 May, the Knysna Motor Show will take place at the Knysna High School Field.

The Klein Karoo town of De Rust will host the De Rust Boeremark on Saturday, 4 May, the same day that the monthly Riebeek West Funky Fresh Market happens.

Also on May 4, in the Overberg, Elgin will play host to the first Elgin Cool Wine & Country Festival.

There are multitudes of mountain biking events this week; on Wednesday, 1 May, the All-Mountain Enduro is taking place at Delvera Farm in Stellenbosch. The Tru Cape MTB event will be taking place at Elgin/Grabouw Country Club on Saturday, 4 May. High School Langenhoven in Riversdale will play host to the Hessequa MTB Challenge on Saturday, 4 May. From 4 – 5 May, the Houw Hoek Tour will take place at Houw Hoek Inn, Elgin.

For more information on any event please visit the link or our calendar.

Freedom Day and Other Things to Do This Weekend…

On Saturday, April 27, South Africans will be celebrating Freedom Day.  Freedom Day is the celebration of one of the defining moments in the history of our beautiful country and has helped catapult us to being the powerhouse of Africa. On this day, almost two decades ago, 19.7 million South Africans queued up at voting stations and made their mark on history; it is the anniversary of the First Democratic Elections held in 1994. 

We have compiled a list of things to do on this Freedom Day (and the rest of the weekend…)

Decorex is at the CTICC will be enthralling visitors to the expo with its design and décor innovations until Sunday. The annual expo is showcasing the latest design and décor reaffirming why Cape Town is the World Design Capital 2014. Tickets available at the door ranging between R10 and R70.

Space Ibiza will be at the Shimmy Beach Club tonight, tickets range between R280-R500 available through Computicket.

The charming Karoo town of Prince Albert is celebrating its 20th annual Olive festival from today through to Sunday. Click the link for a schedule of the festivities planned.

The Utopia Festival will be lighting up Nekkies Resort & Camping site between Worcester and Rawsonville from today until Sunday. This three day music festival promises “an eclectic mix of house, rock, techno and live shows with incredible cutting edge design and décor”. Tickets are available through Webtickets and range between R380 for a weekend pass and R70 for one day.

Sandringham, near Stellenbosch, is plays host to the SA Cheese Festival starting today until Sunday. Over 400 cheeses will be showcased for festival goers, as well as entertainment. Tickets are R115 and available through Computicket, hurry as tickets are selling out fast.

The Vintage Ideas Market is taking place at Simondium Country Lodge from today until Sunday. An incredible vintage shopping experience, set in a Great Gatsby themed venue is promised.

80s Music sensation, Jennifer Rush will be performing at the CTICC tonight and tomorrow evening. Tickets are available through Computicket and cost between R550 and R640.

On Saturday there are a host of trail running and mountain biking events happening in Cape Town and the Western Cape; Boterberg Farm in Philadelphia, near Malmesbury, is hosting the Philadelphia 150 Wine Route MTB Race in celebration of the 150 year establishment of the town. Avalon Springs Hotel in Montagu is hosting Montagu Mountain Mania, a two day MTB and trail running event. Arabella Hotel and Spa near Hermanus is hosting the Arabella Challenge a two day MTB and trail running experience through the Arabella Country Estate. 

Rocking for Cancer is taking place at the Montreal on Loop Club in Cape Town on Saturday evening. The event is in aid of St Luke’s Hospice, tickets cost between R30 and R80.

SA Forest Adventures will be hosting the Good Hope FM Adventure Race in the Overberg Region on Saturday. The event will start in Stanford and includes the towns of Hermanus, Stanford, Caledon, Botrivier, Kleinmond and Betties bay. See the link for more information, 1st prize R15 000 is up for grabs.

Maphindi's Restaurant in Nyanga is hosting Maphindis Freedom Day Experience in association with Stop Hunger Now Southern Africa on Saturday. The day will start with packing and providing meals for 6000 people.  There is a  traditional Tshisanyama (township grill house) lunch afterwards. Tickets are R120 for a good cause.

Spier Hotel near Stellenbosch will be hosting a 12 course tasting menu and talk on Saturday, hosted by renowned anthropologist, chef and cookbook author Dr Anna Trapido based on her book Hunger for Freedom. The theme of the evening ‘food in the life of Nelson Mandela’ is a gastro-political journey through the stages of Nelson Mandela’s life, tickets are R320.

The town of Simon’s Town will be hosting festivities in aid of endangered penguins as participants that have returned from the Annual Penguin Waddle are welcomed on Saturday.  

The participants in the Winelands Charity Walk will be welcomed at Simon's Restaurant at Groot Constantia where drink and snacks will be served in celebration of their achievement.

The Boland and Joubert- Tradauw Kelders will be hosting Unplugged Route 62- The Finest Blues Concert on Saturday. Tickets are R280 and include an al fresco lunch, glass of wine and the concert.

The City Hall in Cape Town will host City Hall Sessions Freedom Day Concert on Saturday at 8pm. Click the link for more info.

The FamFest presented by 4Leaf will be taking place at the Claremont Cricket Club Fields in Constantia on Saturday. Bring the family along and enjoy Freedom Day with entertainment for young and old.

The weekend is set to enthrall the young and the young-at-heart with activities to tickle anyone’s fancy. Happy Freedom Day to everyone.

Vegetarian in the Western Cape

There are many options available for those that are vegetarian or vegan here in the Western Cape, you don’t need to be ordering “a burger and fries, hold the burger”…

We have put together a list of some vegan and vegetarian friendly options here in the Western Cape.

Vegan Restaurants

• Bolo'bolo 082 557 3912 6 Lower Main Road, Observatory
• Closer 021 709 0824 42 Palmer Road, Muizenberg
• The Natural Way Cafe 021 856 2500 959 Sir Lowrys Pass Road, Gordons Bay
• Vivo pizza 074 167 9792 30 Woodside Drive, Pinelands

Vegetarian Restaurants
• Cafe Jo Brown 021 424 0920 4a Buiten Street, Cape Town
• Govinda's Natural Food Cafe 021 686 1179 17 St. Andrew Road, Rondebosch
• Krishna’s Cuisine 021 794 3214 37 Riverside Mall, Rondebosch
• Maharajah Vegetarian Takeout 021 685 7891 6 Rondebosch Court, Cape Town
• O'ways Teacafe 021 671 2850 Heritage House, 20 Dreyer Street, Claremont
• Portobello Cafe 021 426 1418 111 Long Street, Cape Town
• Sophea Gallery & Tibetan Teahouse 021 786 1544 2 Harrington Road, Seaforth, Simon's Town
• The Veg Table Private Dining Room 074 833 9516 Rheenendahl Road, Knysna
• Zucchinis 021 424 8571 1, Loop Street, Cape Town

There are many restaurants that offer vegan and vegetarian friendly options on their menus, here are a few we have compiled…

• A Taste of Asia 021 447 1500 45 Lower Main Road, Observatory

• A Touch of Madness 021 448 2266 12 Nuttall Road, Observatory

• Addis in Cape 021 424 5722 41 Church Street, Cape Town

• Anatolis 021 419 2501 24 Napier Street, Greenpoint

• Babel 021 863 3852 Babylonstoren Wine Farm, Simondium Road, Klapmuts

• Call-A-Pizza 021 434 0818 57 Regent Road, Sea Point

• Capelands Restaurant Mangiare 021 858 1477 3 Old Sir Lowry's Pass Road, Somerset West

• Dear Me 021 422 4920 165 Long Market Street, Cape Town

• Deer Park Café 021 462 6311 2 Deer Park Avenue, Vredehoek, Cape Town

• e’Mondo Good Food Eatery 021 418 1609 42 Hans Strijdom Ave, Cape Town

• Eight at Spier 021 809 1188 Spier, R310, Stellenbosch

• F.east 021 424 5903 1st Floor, corner of Long and Bloem Streets, Cape Town

• Fusion Café 028 312 4277 Village Square Waterfront Piazza, Marine Drive, Hermanus

• Gypsy Café 021 448 8336 87 Station Road, Observatory 

• Health Café 021 424 6560 161 Longmarket Street

• Jakarta Rijsttafel 021 881 3243 La Provence Road, Stellenbosch

• Jamaica Me Crazy 021 448 0691 74 Roodebloem Road, Woodstock 

• Kauai Health Food & Juice Co Nationwide

• Madre's Kitchen 028 341 0441 Robert Stanford Estate, Stanford, Overberg

• Makaron Restaurant 021 880 1549 26-32 Houtkapper St, Paradyskloof, Stellenbosch

• Massimo's Pizza Club 021 790 5648 Oakhurst Farm Park, Main road, Hout Bay

• Mountainview Café 021 423 1852 171 Long Street, Cape Town

• Sababa Kitchen and Deli 021 424 7480 231 Bree Street, Cape Town

• Simply Asia Nationwide

• The Class Room 028 316 3582 Hemel - en - Aarde Craft Village, Hermanus

• The Kitchen 021 462 2201 111 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock

• The Millstone Eco-friendly Farm Stall & Café 021 447 8226 Alexandra Road, Oude Molen Eco Village, Pinelands

• The Nook Eatery 021 887 7703 42 Ryneveld Street, Stellenbosch 

• The Veg Table Private Dining Room 074 833 9516 Rheenendahl Road, Knysna

• Tikka Palace 028 313 8460 2nd Floor, Misty Waves Hotel, Marine Drive, Hermanus

• Vanilla Café 021 461 7868 117 Hatfield Street, Cape Town

• Well Café 021 480 9500 Lifestyle Centre, 50 Kloof Street, Cape Town

• Yindees 021 422 1012 22 Camp Street (opposite Jan van Riebeeck High School), Gardens

• Zucchini 044 882 1240 Timberlake Organic Village, on N2 after Wilderness, Garden Route

• Most Indian eateries offer vegetarian friendly options as well as restaurants within established hotels as they are intended to cater to a wide clientele.

These are just a few, the list is extensive and would probably be too long for a post, I have randomly chosen a few eateries that have confirmed that they offer vegetarian/vegan friendly options.

Feel free to comment on any others you would like to share.

Earth Day and Events 22 - 28 April

Today, April 22, is International Earth Day. Every year on April 22, more than one billion people take part in Earth Day. Across the globe, individuals, communities, organizations, and governments acknowledge the amazing planet we call home and take action to protect it.

The theme this year is Earth Day 2013: The Face of Climate Change.More than one billion people around the world will take part in the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day. From Beijing to Cairo, Melbourne to London, Rio to Johannesburg, New Delhi to New York, communities everywhere will voice their concerns for the planet, and take action to protect it. We’ll harness that power to show the world The Face of Climate Change. And we’ll call on our leaders to act boldly together, as we have, in this pivotal year.

An interactive digital display of all the images will be shown at thousands of events around the world, including next to federal government buildings in countries that produce the most carbon pollution. The display will also be made available online to anyone who wants to view or show it. (www.earthday.org)

In Cape Town, Green Pop will be celebrating Earth Day with a tree planting ceremony at Harmony Primary School, Steenberg from 9:30am - 1:30pm.

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This week has business, rock metal gods, penguins, decor, cheese, olives and a party to keep anyone's interest peeked...

From today through to Thursday, Wesgro is undertaking a road show to Zambia with a focus on agri-business.

Today and tomorrow, the CTICC is playing host to the Africa Urban Infrastructure Summit, for more information click the link.

There will be two charity walking events this week, from today through till Saturday. The first is the Winelands Charity Walk; 3 men will start in Tulbagh and walk through the Winelands until they reach Stellenbosch on Friday, thereafter they will do a short walk on Saturday from Steenberg to Groot Constantia, where they will celebrate their achievement in aid of the Anna Foundation.

The second is the 3rd Annual Penguin Promises Waddle, a group of conservationists and representatives from the African Animal Keepers Association will walk every day from Gansbaai in the Cape Overberg and reach the Boulders Beach penguin colony in Simon’s Town just after 12 noon on Saturday 27 April. The aim is to raise awareness about the endangered African penguin. On Saturday there are festivities planned at Jubilee Square in Simons Town from 10am.

On Wednesday and Thursday evening, rock metal lovers are in for a treat as Metallica are performing at the Bellville Velodrome. Originally scheduled for the 24th at the Cape Town Stadium, the venue changed in order for fans to enjoy Metallica in a dynamic indoor live music setting instead.

Decorex is back at the CTICC from Thursday until Sunday. The interior decorating extravaganza is set to wow Capetonians once again with design trends, demos and workshops.

This weekend, Prince Albert in the Karoo is the place to be for the 20th annual Prince Albert Olive Festival. From 26-28 April the rural little town in the Central Karoo welcomes tourists with their renowned hospitality  to experience the town and all it has to offer as well as olives of course!

Sandringham farm near Stellenbosch is set to host the South African Cheese Festival from Friday until Sunday.

Nekkies Resort and Camping Site between Rawsonville and Worcester is the venue for the Utopia Festival from 26-28 April. A music festival that will include the likes of Karen Zoid, Fokofpolisiekar and Desmond & The Tutus to name a few.

On Saturday, April 27, join Boland Kelder and Joubert Tradauw en Kelder for Unplugged Route 62- The Finest Blues Concert .

April 27 is also the day South Africans will be celebrating Freedom Day which is a commemoration of the day the first post apartheid elections were held in South Africa in 1994.

Out and About This Weekend

Whether you're a foodie, consider yourself a wine connoisseur, got green fingers or appreciate fine music, there is something on the cards for everyone this weekend... 

The ProNutro AfricanX Trailrun is taking place from today until Sunday at the Houw Hoek Inn, Elgin, put on those running shoes and enjoy the beauty of the Elgin Valley in the Cape Overberg.

The extreme endurance mountain bike challenge that is the 36 One MTB Challenge is taking place at Kleinplaas Holiday resort in Oudtshoorn from today until Sunday.

Today , through till Sunday, if you enjoy good food and wine, get down to the Constantia Uitsig and enjoy the Constantia Food and Wine Festival. Over 40 of the finest wines and delicious food from award winning restaurants will be on offer.

Michael McIntyre, reknowned comedic from the UK will have you in stitches from laughter at the Grand Arena at Grand West tonight for the final of his two performances in Cape Town.

The 2013 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championships are taking place at the Ice Station at Grand West since Monday. Go support our national team tonight at 8pm as they take on Greece and on Sunday at 8pm as they take on North Korea.

On Saturday and Sunday, the Langabaan Lagoon Celebration will be showcasing all that there is to do and see in Langebaan. Many fun activities have been planned in and around the lagoon, so for some West Coast hospitality and fun get yourself down there.

Bot River Barrels and Beards is taking place on Saturday at Anybos, Botriver in the Cape Overberg. Every winemaker from the valley stops shaving at the end of February and is judged on the day by the panel of judges as to length, character and whatever criteria that is thought up by this esteemed body of men and women.

The West Coast Marathon is taking place on Saturday in Langebaan, while you there why not visit the Langebaan Lagoon Celebration...

Val De Vie Estate in Paarl will be hosting the Infiniti 4 Nations Invitational Polo Classic Final on Saturday, set to be a posh affair, food and wine will be available.

La Motte Wine Estate in the Franschhoek Valley is hosting Classical Concert on Saturday at 7pm. Admission is R170 and features Gaylen-Rose Sales (harp) and Brigit Rennie-Salonen (flute).

The world-renowned conductor Richard Bonynge will conduct a concert performances of Donizetti`s Lucia di Lammermoor featuring top opera stars and singers from Cape Town Opera and the Voice of the Nation Choir on Saturday at 8pm at the Artscape Opera House. Tickets available through Computicket and cost R420.

This is an ABSA Premiership soccer match between Ajax Cape Town and Bidvest Wits will take place at . Athlone Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is at 8pm and tickets cost between R40-R60.

Talking Heads is taking place at Iziko Museum, the Whale Well on Saturday at 7pm. Engage with experts from different disciplines in a genius mix of musical chairs and speed dating for the brain, guests are invited to move from table to table engaging in four intimate 20-minute conversations. Tickets available through Computicket at R100.

The Make Believe Train Party to Glencairn Hotel is taking place on Saturday from 12pm. Tickets are available from Quicket.co.za and cost R158.90.

On Saturday and Sunday the 38th Annual Kirstenbosch Garden Fair and Indigenous Plant Sale is taking place at the Stone Cottages opposite the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens from 9am-4pm, entrance costs R5.

On Sunday Solms Delta Wine estate in the Franschhoek valley is hosting the Delta Trap MTB Race and the Winemakers MTB Challenge, see the links for more information.

Earth Day is on Monday 22 April, to commemorate this Greenpop is hosting a series of events, on Sunday at 3pm is Cape Town Earth Cycle (meet at Greenmarket Square outside the Methodist Church – look out for the Greenpop Team in green capes). Cycle, skate, rollerblade (or whatever wheely petrol-free device you’d like) a cool city route all the way to the Yoga for Trees session that happens at 5pm.

On Monday 9.30am to 1.30pm – Tree Planting Day with Harmony Primary School.

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo - Pt2: Klein Karoo

The Garden Route and Klein Karoo are one region belonging to the most beautiful province  the Western Cape. This is part 2 or the regional profile for the Garden Route and Klein Karoo, with the focus on the Klein Karoo.

Klein Karoo

The Klein or "little" Karoo is a semi-arid region nestled between the town of Ladismith and the border to the Eastern Cape province. The area is most famous for ostriches, caves, some of the most breath-taking mountain passes in the country.

In days gone by buffalo, elephant and kudu roamed these plains, but have since been hunted and driven out by modern day developments. Many years ago the area was also inhabited by the native San, Khoi  and Hottentots, who were driven out by European settlers who came to the area in the late 1600s. 

The area is home to the world renowned Cango Caves that was discovered by a Hottentot boy looking for his lost cattle in the 1780s. Declared a World Heritage Sight, the caves, with its magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations, extends over 5km underground and has evidence that humans may have lived and sheltered there at least 80 000 years ago. The history of the Cango caves are intriguing, well worth a visit especially for those interested in the many mysteries the caves have to offer. These mysterious occurrences include fossils, skeletons, ghosts, cave drawings and secret entrances to name a few!

Cango Caves

Well known towns in the region:

Oudtshoorn - probably the most famous town of the region, the town is renowned for its ostrich, crocodile and cheetah farms and the Cango caves which are situated outside of the town. Oudtshoorn comes alive during the annual Klein Karoo National Arts Festival which attracts many tourists during March/April to this rural gem.

Crocodile Cage Diving in Oudtshoorn

Ladismith - above the town is the peak Towerkop, local legend has it that that a witch, flying overhead, struck the peak in anger with her wand because it obstructed her passage over the mountain and resulted in the split  between the peak. Ladismith is well known for its cheese as well as apricots, a staggering 30% of apricot production in the country comes from this region.

Calitzdorp - known as the Port Wine Capital and its extensive array of succulent plants with 200 species not found anywhere else on earth. Evidence of the early indigenous San and Khoi people are found in the rock painting in the surrounding mountains. The first cement road in South Africa was erected between Calitzdorp and Oustshoorn in the early 1900s.

De Rust - famous for its donkey taxis, the initiative was actually started to educate donkey handlers in the correct way to harness and handle donkeys and not as a tourism project. The town is also known as home to many artists who have taken up residence in De Rust for its tranquil and inspiring setting.

Uniondale - a quaint farming village that predominantly farms sheep, goat, seed and apples. The town was formed in 1856 when the towns of Hopedale and Lyons were joined. Uniondale is famous or rather infamous for the The Uniondale Ghost, a legend claiming that the ghost of Marie Charlotte Roux haunts the road outside of the town. As the story goes, she was tragically killed in an accident in 1968, people who travel the road come a across a female hitchhiker, after they offer her a lift she disappears a few kilometres down the road!

Uniondale Church

Route 62, the world'd longest wine route passes through the Klein Karoo. For those looking for more adventure, the Klein Karoo offers many hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and 4x4 trails with unsurpassed views. 

For more information visit the local tourism information office.