If you haven’t made any plans for the weekend and are looking for something to do, here are a few events that you may enjoy.
Gauteng
Hiking with Hi-Tec and the Getaway crew
Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, Mondeor
26 February
Don your hiking shoes and join Hi-Tec and the Getaway crew for a picturesque hike in the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. The reserve has approximately 150 species of birds, 650 indigenous plants and trees in is well stocked with wildlife, including zebra, Wildebeest and Hartebeest. Why not make it a family affair and bring the kids along to enjoy the fresh air. From 08h00-13h30. R50 per person (includes entry, trail pack and free gift). For further information or to book, please contact Tracy-Lee Behr on 021-530-3379 or email [email protected].
Sowing the Seeds
Warthog Game Farm, Magaliesburg
24-25 February
Having been to Sowing the Seeds in Cape Town, I can pretty much assure you that this is going to be a whole lot of fun (if you like music festivals). Expect the same laid back festival vibe and family-friendly atmosphere that is synonymous with Rocking the Daisies (another goodie). You get an amazing venue with lush grassy areas in the heart of the Magaliesburg, with accommodation options that vary from camping to 4-star luxury lodges as well as a rocking line up and a bunch of entertainment. Some of the bands include Goldfish, Shadowclub (hot lead singer!), Desmond & The Tutus, Tidal Waves, Wresterlish and Jeremy Loops. There will also be DJ’s at the Beat Boma. Gates open at 3pm. Get your tent out, pack in the headache tablets and sunblock and get there! R200 from Webtickets, R250 at the gate. Tel 082-656-1040, email [email protected].
Stargazing: Living Amongst The Stars
Maropeng
25 February
The stars hold many stories about how the universe began and at this event Maropeng’s resident astronomer, Vincent Nettmann, will reveal how the stars are related to the origins of humankind on Earth. This fascninating evening begins at 6pm with welcome drinks and snacks whilst enjoying breathtaking views over the Cradle of Humankind as the sun sets. The stargazing presentation will be followed by a buffet dinner. You will be able to observe the summer sky objects and the moon through a range of large aperture telescopes. Bring binoculars so you can participate in this laser-guided sky tour. Everyone is welcome, including children. It is advisable to take something warm along in case it gets chilly. R190 for adults, R90 for children. Includes buffet dinner. Tel 014-577-9000, email [email protected], www.maropeng.co.za.
2012 Gauteng Homemakers Expo
The Coca-Cola Dome, Johannesburg
23-26 February
If you are tired of competing with the Jones family next door or simply need inspiration for your home, the Gauteng Homemakers Expo is a home lifestyle exhibition not be missed. Apart from the 600 stands showcasing the a vast range of home lifestyle and home improvement products, the expo also highlights the latest in home trends with some exciting new features. Expect interior trends for 2012, experts in DIY and decor, along with Editors from top décor publications and decor gurus. Ladies can take along their best friend, have a glass of champagne (there is always champagne at these events) and oggle at pretty things. Husbands can go along with their credit card and perhaps learn some DIY tips. R70 for adults, R40 for pensioners, free for kids. Tel 011-794-5800, email [email protected], www.coca-coladome.co.za.
KwaZulu-Natal
Rewind 80’s Festival
Mr Price Kings Park Stadium, Durban
25 February
Get out your legwarmers, the 80’s are back! Ten of the world’s top international 80’s bands are hitting SA shores and this is your excuse to dig out your 80’s gear and party the night away to all your old favourites. Expect to hear the likes of Spandau Ballet, Soft Cell, Ultravox, Go West, The Village People and many more. It starts at 4pm and you are going to party, well, like it’s the 80’s. R100 – R350 from Computicket. www.rewindfestival.co.za.
Phoneography Exhibition
ArtSPACE Durban
24-25 February
Since the launch of digital cameras and smartphones, everyone is now a photographer. In fact, taking pictures with a smartphone (or a cellphone that has a camera) has become so popular, it even has its own name: iPhoneography, or smartphoneography for those who do not own an Apple mobile phone. So why not have a group exhibition for phone camera images? Anyone who has taken cool photos on their phones now has a chance to let others see them in a gallery environment and even have the opportunity to sell them. If you purchase an image it’ll cost you R100, otherwise entrance is free if you are just curious to see what mobile-phone -hotography talent is out there. Tel 031-312-0793, email [email protected], www.artspace-durban.com.
Bangladesh Market
Chatsworth, Durban
25-26 February
If you are feeling cultural and in the mood for something different, visit this popular Indian market and experience the vibrant eastern traditions that characterise this community. Offering a colourful array of wares, fresh produce and clothing, you are bound to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of this weekend meeting place. If you are a fan of Indian cooking, you could get no better choice of exotic vegetables and spices. The fragrant aromas and mouth-watering sights will make it difficult not to stop and sample the dishes of the many food stalls at this hidden gem. Tel t 031 307 7595.
Western Cape
Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
12 February
For Capetonians and visitors the internationally renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is the place to visit, not only for its beauty, but for the hugely popular Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts that draw audiences from far and wide. Put down your blanket, bring your picnic basket (Kirstenbosch was recently voted one the world’s top picnic spots by National Geographic) and get set for a hot summer of music. This Sunday sees The Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. Don’t miss it! Tickets R100 from Webtickets. Tel 021-799-8783, email [email protected], www.sanbi.org/events/kirstenbosch-old-mutual-summer-sunset-concerts.
Stargazing Picnic
Afrikaanse Taalmonument, Paarl
25 February
Capetonians also get to look at the stars this weekend. Enjoy a picnic at the Afrikaanse Taalmonument on Paarl Mountain whilst taking in the night sky. The picnic starts at 18h00 with a guided tour of the Monument at 18h30. From 20h00-22h30 visitors can get a close-up look at the starts through telescopes under the guidance of members of the stargazing club, Orion Observation Group. R25 for adults, R10 for children. Tel 021-872-3441, email [email protected], www.taalmuseum.co.za.
Diving with sharks at Shark Alley
‘Shark Alley’- False Bay
26 February
No cages here folks! Shark Alley is one of the Cape’s most diverse diving sites with most of the Cape vertebrate and invertebrate species living in the amazing kelp forests. The dive starts on land where you kit up, do all safety checks and have a brief from the Divemaster on procedures that need to be followed during the dive to make sure everyone gets the most out of the experience. Then you’ll descend to a whole new world where you could see 5 different species of shark, red romans, hottentot, knifejaws, steenbrass, octopus, jellies and much much more! Don’t be a sissy and book for this wonderful experience. R240 (includes all gear and equipment rental). Open water dive certification required. Booking is essential. Contact Fawzia on 078-038-4135, email [email protected].
Spier Harvest Festival
Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
25 February
On Saturday the Spier lawns will be transformed into a market offering delectable treats, paired with Spier’s award-winning 21 Gables and Creative Block wines. Take a vineyard tour on a tractor, watch the grape stomping challenge or simply enjoy relaxing with wine and food under the trees listening to bands play bluesy tunes. Kids can play interactive games including puppet shows, magicians and face painting. The festival runs from 10h00-16h00 and tickets can only be purchased at Spier on the day. R70 (includes a wine glass and five tickets that can be used either for wine tastings or games). Tel 021-809-1100, email [email protected], www.spier.co.za.
Robertson Wine Valley’s Hands-On Harvest Festival
Robertson Wine Valley
24-26 February
It’s definitely all about the wine this weekend in Cape Town! Head out to the Robertson Wine Valley to experience the ‘magic of harvest’. This boutique fun-filled family event promises to offer a wide variety of activities that will appeal to both wine lovers and budding vintners. Harvest your own grapes, witness the art of wine-making, try grape stomping, go on a wine-tasting trail on horseback or by horse-and-cart, take a breakfast trip on the Breede River, go shopping at the Harvest Market and loads of other stuff. There’s so much to do with plenty to eat and drink that you may need a glass of wine to cope. Tel 023-626-3167, www.handsonharvest.com.
