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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Out In Africa Film Festival

The Out in Africa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival kicked off last week and will be running through until Sunday 21 April at Nu Metro Cinemas at the V&A Waterfront.

The line up for the festival includes international award-winning films, features and  documentaries covering topics such as popular revolution, ballet, romance, drama, and an insightful look at a clash of cultures.

The festival opened with the 2 SA shorts, Kinsey & Nosiphokazi's story and the doccie Bros B4 Hos.

How To Survive A Plague, directed by David France, an Oscar 2013 nominee for Best Documentary. IFP Gotham Awards – Best Documentary and Boston Film Critics Awards – Best Documentary.

Zenne Dancer, directed by M. Caner Alper & Mehmet Binay, 2011 Antalya FF Golden Orange – Best Cinematographer / Best First Film / Best Supporting Actor & Actress, 2011 Turkish Film Critics Association Award – Best Film and 2012 Nuremberg Film Festival – Öngören Prize awarded to the Directors. Caner Alper & Mehmet Binay will be attending the Film Fest for the Saturday 20th screening.   

Tomboy, directed by Céline Sciamma, 2011 Berlinale Teddy Award winner, 2011 Odessa IFF – Golden Duke, 2011 San Francisco Frameline G&LFF – Audience Award, 2011 Philadelphia QFest L&GFF – Best Feature and 2011 NewFest – Jury award for Best Performance - Zoé Héran as Laure / Mickäel, 

Chloe Likes Olivia , directed by Mette Kjærgaard, cCourtesy of the Danish Film Institute, Mette Kjærgaard and writer Jenny Lund Madsen will present their short film.   Watch the website for details of the filmmaking workshop they will be running in Cape Town.  

Swan Lake 3D, directed by Ross MacGibbon and Matthew Bourne. Bourne’s gender-bending version of the Russian classic has been round the world 4 times, and garnered 30 international theatre awards, including a Tony.

Four, directed by Joshua Sanchez, winner of the 2003 HBO Films Young Producer’s Development Award. 2012 Urbanworld FF - Best Narrative Feature, 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival – Ensemble Acting Award and Jerome Foundation’s Film and Video grant.

Beyond The Walls,  Hor Les Murs, directed by David Lambert, selected for the 2012 Cannes Critic’s Week. 2012 - 65th Cannes Film Festival International Critics Week - Grand Golden Rail Award (Grand Rail d'Or) - Best Feature and 2012 Paris Lesbian Film Festival - People’s Award – Best Performance, Matila Malliarakis & Guillaume Gouix  

Interior. Leather Bar. Directed by James Franco & Travis Mathews . A curiosity from Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee, James Franco. William Friedkin’s gay cult classic Cruising, starring Al Pacino, was cut by 40 minutes in order to allow for a wider release. Franco and Mathews hour-long doc explores Hollywood’s homophobia, and professional and personal boundaries during the re-creation of that imagined lost footage.

Support the festival and prove why Cape Town and the Western Cape is the best destination for anyone, from any background.

What To Do This Weekend

This weekend has something for everyone, from your sport enthusiasts to your budding botanists...

The Cape Town Marimba Festival is taking place today at the Baxter Theatre in Rondebosch, tickets can be purchased through Computicket and cost between R45-R90. Relax to the festive sounds of various Marimba bands and forget the past week and and its troubles.

Friday nights in Hout Bay are for music lovers, get down to the Bay Harbour Market from 5-9pm for good food, drinks and live music.

Today is the start of the annual Out in Africa film festival at Nu Metro Cinemas at the V&A Waterfront.The South African Gay and Lesbian film festival, it also showcases and promotes our home grown film industry, well worth support.

The Pick n Pay Taste of Cape Town festival started yesterday and will be all weekend at the Green Point Cricket Club. Get down there for some good food and wine in a relaxed atmosphere. 12 of Cape Town's top restaurants will showcasing there finest as well as top chefs demonstrating their trade.

The Clanwilliam Expo also started yesterday until Saturday in the West Coast Town. There will be host of stalls, live shows as well as the fair King and Queen competition.

On Saturday if you find yourself in charming Greyton do attend the gala fashion showcase and 5 course dinner presented by The Oaks Estate and Charlene Sauerman at Mime Vior Couture.

Live the farm life in Ceres for a day at Koelfontein Farm, Prince Alfred's Hamlet. The Chefs Picnic in Cecelia's World features a picnic prepared by renowned chef Liam Tomlin as well as an opportunity to pick your own fruits from the orchards.

The Welsh Male Voice Choir will be performing in Swellendam at the primary school on Saturday at 7:30pm. The proceeds of the concert will be going to a worthy cause. Tickets are R80 available at the door, contact Maureen(028 5142478) or  Brian(028 5142634) for more information.

Spiritual Synthesia trance festival will be taking place at Wildekrans Wine Estate in Bot River on Saturday and Sunday. Presented by The Village, more information and tickets visit http://www.facebook.com/TheVillageSA.

Pack your buckets and spades and head down to Hout Bay beach for the Sandcastle Building competition, all funds raised will be going towards sponsoring underprivileged kids at the school in the area. 

A clash of the coasts in epic proportions, Newlands Stadium, the home of rugby in SA, will be alive to the sounds of the Stormers taking on the Sharks in the Super 15 at 5pm on Saturday.

Karen Zoid will be performing an intimate gig at Cafe Roux in Noordhoek from 4-6pm on Saturday. Tickets  R50-R100.

The Rare Plant Fair will be taking place at Rustenberg Wines in Ida's Valley near Stellenbosch on Saturday from 9am to 3pm. Entrance is R10 per person.

On Sunday, pack a picnic and visit Maynardville Open Air Theatre and relax to the sounds of Jazz in the Park. Tickets available through Computicket and proceeds will be going towards a good cause.

South African rockers aKing will be performing at the Brass Bell in Kalk Bay on Sunday. Tickets cost R50 and are available through computicket.

SA Navy Festival and activities this weekend

SA's finest men and women in white will be on display at the annual SA Navy Festival in Simons Town this weekend. Starting today through till Sunday, the Navy will grant insight to what their training and tools entail and how they keep our waters safe. 

The festivities include;  a parade through Simons Town, a Navy Choir performance, canon firing, sword drill, precision drill, an anti-piracy display, tug boat rides and the ever popular public viewings of the Navy ships and submarines. There are many more activities including stalls and whats more, admission is free, so get your family down to the Simons Town Naval base between 10am and 6pm and enjoy all the maritime splendor.

The ABSA KKNK festival will be finishing off tomorrow. If you find yourself in the Oudtshoorn area today and tomorrow, be sure not to miss the last events of this exciting festival for this year.

Get down to Simonsvlei Wine Estate for their 2nd annual Family adventure day tomorrow from 8am. Entry is free but there will be a charge to participate in the mountain bike races and trail runs. Food  and entertainment for both young and old will be available.

The Glamour Stiletto Run will be taking place at the Table Bay Hotel at the V&A Waterfront tomorrow at 11am. Tickets are R250 and include a goodie bag, cocktails, 6 month subscription to the magazine and a donation to charity. So ladies put on those stilettos and dash for charity and good fun.

Sunningdale Sports Club in Table View will be hosting Cape Fight League 3 tomorrow evening. The show will feature mixed marshal arts (MMA) fighters battling it out for the top titles. Tickets start at R100.

Take the kids to catch the final showing of the classic story by Beatrix Potter, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, at the Artscape Theatre at 10:30am or 12:30pm tomorrow. Tickets cost R50.

Attention all future ballerinas, the Cape Town City Ballet will be hosting its annual open day tomorrow at the UCT School of Dance from 10:30 - 3pm. You will get an opportunity to view performances, rehearsals as well as a Spanish Dance class. Entry will cost R20, R10 for kids under 13 and R50 for the fundraising performances.

On Sunday, why not go support some local soccer, Ajax Cape Town will be taking on Free State Stars at the Athlone stadium. Kick-off is at 3pm and tickets cost between R40 and R60.

Join well-known South African artist, Johnny Clegg on Sunday at the Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concert. Tickets range between R80 and R110, the concert starts at 5:30pm.

Why not take advantage of the sunshine this weekend, before winter sets in, and pack a picnic, go for hike or a run or a drive and enjoy our lovely home, the Western Cape.

Human Rights and Earth Hour

Since 1994, 21 March has been declared a public holiday under the name Human Rights Day. It is in remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre of in 1960.

The official Human Rights day celebration will be held at  Embekweni Township Hall in Paarl.
Some other events (that might not necessarily have to do with Human Rights Day) happening today:
Johnny Clegg will be performing at Vergelegen Wine Farm in Somerset West at 7pm.
The West Coast town of Darling will be hosting a Human Rights Day Box Cart Race.
The Springbok Nude Girls will be performing at The Assembly in Cape Town as well as Fokofpolisiekar and Jackal and Wolf.
The Cape Town Festival will be taking place from today, through the weekend, at the Company's Gardens, Cape Town.
Goldfish will be performing at Spier in Stellenbosch.
Woodstock Academy of Music official launch party will take place in Albert Road, Woodstock.
Shadowclub will be performing at Bohemia in Stellenbosch.
As part of Cape Town's Human Rights Day celebrations, an official street renaming ceremony will be taking place at the CTICC.

________________________________________________________________

Saturday, 23 March is the day Earth Hour 2013 will be taking place. Uniting People to Save the Planet, please switch off all your lights, TVs and other electrical appliances between 20:30 & 21:30. A small change can make a big difference!

"Earth Hour is the single, largest, symbolic mass participation event in the world.   Born out of a hope that we could mobilize people to take action on climate change, Earth Hour now inspires a global community of millions of people in 7,001 cities and towns across 152 countries and territories to switch lights off for an hour as a massive show of concern for the environment."

The Luck of the Irish

Sunday, March 17 is St Patrick's Day, commonly known as St Paddy's Day. Saint Patrick is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland and is credited with bringing Christianity to the country. St Patrick's Day has come to be associated with everything Irish: anything green and gold, shamrocks and luck. Most importantly, to those who celebrate its intended meaning, St. Patrick's Day is a traditional day for spiritual renewal and offering prayers for missionaries worldwide. In American cities with a large Irish population, St Patrick's Day is a very big deal. Big cities and small towns alike celebrate with parades, "wearing of the green," music and songs, Irish food and drink, and activities for kids such as crafts, colouring and games.

 (st-patricks-day.com)

Globally, the spirit of St Paddy has taken off and has become a day to drink, be merry and paint the town green and the Western Cape is no exception! Here are some of the activities taking place on St Paddy's:

• The Dubliner, Irish Restaurant and Pub or O' Driscoll’s Irish Pub & Restaurant would be the perfect place to celebrate with a Guinness and be part of the green and gold celebration of culture.
• 4Leaf Agency and Roodebloem Studios will be hosting an Irish themed party on Saturday, March 16. 
• Perseverance Tavern in Buitenkant Street, Cape Town will have an Irish themed day on Sunday.
• The V&A Waterfront will be hosting free events in the amphitheatre, spectators are encouraged to wear green, with prizes for the best dressed. Restaurants such as Quay Four, Ferryman's and Hildebrand with be hosting Irish Themes for the day with Guinness on tap.
• Durbanville Hills will also be adopting an Irish theme for the day as well as pubs and taverns such as The Toad in the Village in Noordhoek, The Royal Oak in Table View, Forrester Arms in Newlands, The Brazen Head in Stellenbosch and The Fox in Napier.
• The Wheel of Excellence at the Waterfront as well as Table Mountain will be shining green in honour of the Gaelic.

The Weekend Ahead - Jazz on the Rocks

Its officially the end of Summer, soon the leaves will start turning and the bikinis will be packed up in favour of a jersey, Autumn has commenced. But not just yet... the upcoming weekend keeps that Summer vibe going with a host of entertainment for anyone, ranging from laid back jazz on the beach to an EDM master, there's something for all tastes.

Friday, 1 March

The world renown EDM master Skrillex, will keep Cape Townians moving till the late hours as he brings his Mothership tour to SA at the Cape Town Ostrich Ranch.

The Constantia Fresh Festival will be on today and tomorrow, good food meets good wine, what more would you need to wind down a busy week.

The Big Blues Music Festival in Kleinmond, 2 days of music in the harbour with a host of local and international artists to take to the stage today and tomorrow.

Saturday, 2 March

As the Cape Town Pride Festival comes to an end after an eventful 10 days, the Pride Parade and Street Fair is set to be a fabulous affair in De Waterkant.

The Cape Town Holi One Color Festival at the Grand Parade is set to be a colorful affair, with tickets already sold out! Be sure to wear white and embrace the spirit that "We Are All One".

Sunday, 3 March

Be sure to catch Arno Carstens at a free concert in De Waal Park at 3pm, pack a picnic, the kids and your fluffy friend and enjoy one of SA's top talents.

Jazz On The Rocks

This weekend sees the 3rd annual Jazz On The Rocks taking place at Tieties Bay, Paternoster along the Cape West Coast which is also the home to the Oscar nominated film Asad. Tieties Bay is a unspoilt stretch of beach in the Cape Columbine nature reserve a mere 90 mins drive from the Cape Town city centre.

A host of top local and international Jazz artists will be performing, with this years headliner Andy Narell. So put on your flipflops and cozzie and get yourself down to Tieties Bay to enjoy good music in a great venue in this beautiful summer weather, a weekend pass costs R400 and is well worth it.

One of the aims of Wesgro is to promote tourism in the Western Cape, in partnership with Jazz On The Rocks, we are able to do just that. Since inception in 2004, Jazz on the rocks has evolved into an established event, offering visitors a unique experience, combined with the finest elements of outdoor living and jazz. Due to the unique nature and setting of this event, it draws visitors from all over the Western Cape as well as South Africa, thus resulting in an influx of visitors into the Cape West Coast region. The duration of this event allows visitors  the opportunity to embark on tourism activities and experiences in and around the region and creating awareness of tourism icons which can be explored during their stay. 

Activities when its wet outside

So its a cold and gloomy day in Cape Town...in the middle of February! You might have been looking forward to a lovely picnic or a trip up Table Mountain, now you are stuck and don't know what to do, instead of curling up on the couch with you blanket and coffee; here are some other options...

• Ice skating at the Ice Station at Grandwest Casino and Entertainment World
• Indoor "rock" climbing at City Rock in Cape Town or Fearless in George
• Ten Pin Bowling at Stadium on Main in Cape Town or at Mountview Lifestyle Centre in George
• A visit to the Two Ocean's Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront
• Butterfly World near Klapmuts is sure to be a captivating experience
• Why not consider a cultural experience and visit one of the many museums our region has to offer: Iziko Museums in Cape Town, The Wheat Industry Museum in Moorreesburg, The Tranport Riders Museum in Ceres, The Shipwreck Museum in Bredasdorp, Old Harbour Museum in Hermanus, Fransie Pienaar Museum in Prince Alfred or Chavonnes Battery Museum at the V&A Waterfront to name but a few.
• Gaming for adullts- visit one of the many casinos in the Western Cape; Grandwest in Cape Town, The Caledon Casino in the Overberg, Club Mykonos in the Langebaan, West Coast, Garden Route Casino in Mossel Bay or Golden Valley Casino in Worcester, Cape Winelands.

This is just a small list of activities to do on a rainy day, there are many more, visit your local tourism office for details.

Valentine’s Day 2013

It’s that time of the year, you either love it or loathe it, the price of roses seem to skyrocket, the colour red is everywhere and there are heart-wielding teddy bears in every shop window…Valentine’s Day is once more upon us. If you haven't already planned that perfect romantic evening, here are some ideas to get you started guaranteed to earn you significant brownie points...you're welcome.

Cape Town

  Most restaurants will be offering Valentine’s specials, call you favourite for more info. Remember that if you are coming towards the city centre there will be numerous road closures as the Opening of Parliament and the State of the Nation Address will be taking place. 

Why not take a city night tour on the Red Bus and enjoy a romantic sunset picnic on top of Signal Hill. The Table Mountain sunset special is also sure to impress; take the cable car to the top for breathtaking views and that perfect romantic moment at sunset, order a picnic for that something extra special.

Sterling EQ will be performing a sunset picnic concert around the dam at Nitida Wine Estate in Durbanville.

Board the love train and take a romantic sunset train ride out to the Stellenbosch Winelands where you will embark on a proudly South African dinner theatre experience at Amazink Live. Indulge in traditional kasi cuisine in the heart of the Khayamandi township. (Leaves from Cape Town Station)

Winelands

The Robertson Small Hotel will be hosting A Midsummer's Night Dream, a 5 course food and wine pairing in the hotel's mystical garden.

Visit Haute Cabriere for dinner in Franschhoek where, between 5 and 7pm, their summer soiree takes place with a free concert on the lawns

Rhebokskloof Wine Estate in Paarl will be hosting an Outdoor Movie Night where they will be screening the romantic movie, The Vow, a picnic basket can be ordered as you sit on the lawns along the lake's edge.

Overberg

The Fox in Napier will be preparing a special 3 course Valentine's dinner that will include a complimentary bottle of red wine.

Wine and Dine in the Country at Caledon Hotel, Casino and Spa, Barton wines will be sampled and the package includes the food & wine pairing, live entertainment, accommodation and breakfast for 2 the next morning.

Garden Route & Klein Karoo

Join the Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa in Knysna for a delectable dinner and later, a screening of the all-time romantic classic Casablanca .

Whats more romantic than looking up and gazing at a star filled sky? Overnight at Anysberg Nature Reserve in the Klein Karoo near Ladismith, you can gaze up at the night sky from telescopes positioned outside your cottage. 

West Coast

!Khwa ttu will be hosting a VDay concert at its restaurant.

Club Mykonos is offering a 50% discount special on accommodation for the month of February and the restaurants will be running special VDay menus.

Karoo 

Spend the night or the weekend at the romantic Lord Milner Hotel and be transported to a bygone era of Victorian elegance in Matjiesfontien.