21 Exciting Activities to Enjoy in South Africa During the Long Weekend

Ah, April in South Africa – a time when the warm weather beckons and thoughts of weekends and relaxation are on everyone’s mind. And lucky for you, another long weekend is just around the corner! If you’re looking for some fun and unique ways to spend your time during the upcoming long weekend from 27 April to 2 May 2012, then look no further. I’ve done some digging and uncovered a treasure trove of exciting activities for you to explore.

Discover the Wonders of Gauteng

Celebrate Freedom Day at the Weekend Market

When: Friday, April 27, 2012, to Saturday, April 28, 2012

Instead of sitting around at home, why not join me in Auchtermuchty, Pretoria, to celebrate our freedom? We’ll have an incredible time filled with fire dancing, drumming, live music, and a wide array of talented artists. The market will be bustling with stalls offering all sorts of goodies. You can even make it a full weekend experience by camping out for just R50 per tent and parking your car safely for only R10. And guess what? Attending the event is absolutely free!

Don’t forget to bring your furry friends (on leashes, of course) and your children (leave the leashes at home). It’s going to be a blast!

For more information, give us a call at +27 (0)72 171-9047.

Witness Amazing Sheepdog Trials at the Cradle of Humankind

When: Saturday, April 28, 2012, to Sunday, April 29, 2012

If you love dogs, especially sheepdogs, why not come visit Borderbrook Farm in Muldersdrift for the Cradle of Humankind Sheepdog Trials? It’s a great event for dog enthusiasts and anyone who loves animals. While you’re there, you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks. Don’t forget to bring your umbrellas, deck chairs, and sunscreen. The entrance fee is R25 for adults, R15 for pensioners and children, and children under 7 get in for free. If you want more information, you can contact Carol at +27 (0)72 288-1558 or Elsie at +27 (0)82 441-9646.

Traumeel Wally Hayward Marathon, Half Marathon and 10km

When: Tuesday 01 May 2012

Feeling full of energy after all those holidays? Well, how about joining me to celebrate the 36th Annual Marathon dedicated to the memory of an amazing South African? This is a special event that takes place at Hoerskool Zwartkop in Mopanie Road, Pretoria. The marathon is fast and easy, but watch out for Hakkin Hill! If you want more information, give Mike Summerfield a call at +27 (0)82 781-4357 or check out the details here.

Exciting Events in Mpumalanga

Blue Swallow Festival

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Saturday 28 April 2012

Hey there! Are you a nature lover? Well, listen up! You won’t want to miss the fantastic Graskop Forest and Grasslands Conservation Festival happening on Louis Trichardt Street. There’ll be an awesome open-air market with yummy food, beautiful arts and crafts, an incredible art exhibition, interesting nature talks, a fun potjiekos competition, and even a cool fun run! By attending the Blue Swallow Festival, you’ll not only have a great time but also help the Graskop Conservancy raise funds to make the ecological, tourism, and social aspects of the area even better. Sounds fantastic, right? If you want more info, you can get in touch with Esmé at +27 (0)83 585-1635 or Merle at +27 (0)82 465 – 2827. And if you prefer, you can also shoot an email to [email protected]

Exciting Events in KwaZulu Natal

Africa Bike Week

When: Thursday 26 April 2012 to Monday 30 April 2012

If you’re looking for some excitement this month, I’ve got just the thing for you – Africa Bike Week! This awesome event brings together over 20,000 Harley-Davidson riders from all around the world to the town of Margate. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of the open road and hear the roar of those engines. But it’s not just for bikers – there’s something for everyone! Get ready for live music, street parties, VIP lounges, and even a bike show. And the highlight of the whole event is a massive ride out with a Parade of Flags. It’s a weekend of fun for the whole family!

Sustainable Living & Indigenous Plant Fair

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Sunday 29 April 2012

If you’ve been using a lot of TV time during these days and wondering about your impact on the planet, then I have a suggestion for you. Come and join us at the Sustainable Living & Indigenous Plant Fair happening at the Cattle Arena, Royal Show Grounds, Hyslop Road, Pietermaritzburg. It’s a great opportunity for you to shop for all sorts of environmentally-friendly indigenous plants, fruit trees, and vegetables. You can also get inspired for your own garden at home. Plus, there will be plenty of stalls showcasing solutions for sustainable living. Throughout the weekend, you can enjoy interesting environmental movies and listen to experts talk about low-carbon living. For more information, you can contact Karen at +27 (0)33 343-1739 or +27 (0)83 235-8628. You can also visit our website or send an email to [email protected]

Oh, and before I forget, don’t miss out on the Freedom Day Regatta! It’s going to be a blast!

When: From Friday, April 27th, 2012 to Tuesday, May 1st, 2012

Hey there! I know that some of you might be really missing the feeling of being out on the sea. If you’re craving the ocean or you’re just a big fan of yachts and sailing, you absolutely can’t afford to miss this regatta. The Riverview Manor Freedom Day Regatta and 2012 SA Laser Nationals will be held at Vetches Pier, just offshore from Durban, over the long Freedom Day weekend. It’s going to be amazing, I promise! For more information, you can give Sophie a call at +27 (0)31 201-1638 or shoot an email to [email protected]. Or if you want, you can simply click here for more details.

KZN Bubbly Festival

When: From Friday, April 27th, 2012 to Saturday, April 28th, 2012

If you love sparkling wines, you won’t want to miss the first-ever KwaZulu-Natal Bubbly Festival on April 27-28. Join me at Makaranga Lodge in Kloof or The Piggly Wiggly in The Midlands, and have the chance to taste the best sparkling wines from over 30 producers. It’s going to be a star-studded event!

Get your tickets for just R180, which includes a complimentary bubbly glass and 10 wine tasting coupons. You can also indulge in some delicious food and even purchase your favorite sparkling wines to take home. But hurry, as tickets are limited! Don’t miss out on this extraordinary celebration.

Visit www.webtickets.co.za to book your tickets and find out more about this fantastic festival. For any inquiries, you can call +27 (0)82 9091116 or +27 (0)84 2073840 or send an email to [email protected]

Embark on an exhilarating hike with Hi-Tec and the Getaway crew!

Hey there! Looking for some adventure? I’ve got the perfect plan for you. How about joining Hi-Tec and Getaway for an amazing hiking experience in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa? You’ll have the chance to explore beautiful trails, spot wildflowers and creatures, and breathe in the fresh air with fellow hikers. We’ll be starting our journey from KwaZulu-Natal: Summerveld, Outer West Durban, and from Western Cape: Corridor Ravine, Table Mountain.

All you need to do is pay R50 for the entry, and we’ll provide you with a trail pack and a special gift. It’s going to be an incredible experience, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Give us a call at +27 (0)21 530 3379 or send us an email at [email protected] to get started!

Ready for More Adventure?

If you’re up for even more excitement, don’t miss out on the AfrikaBurn event in the Northern Cape. It’s happening from Wednesday 25 April to Monday 30 April. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

If you’re feeling adventurous and ready to let your imagination run wild, AfrikaBurn is the perfect event for you. Since its inception in 2007, AfrikaBurn has been held in the Tankwa Karoo. It’s a place where people converge to turn their dreams into reality, creating an entire city called Tankwa Town. This temporary city is a hub of creativity and self-reliance, built from the collective imaginations of its participants.

In Tankwa Town, you’ll find a vibrant community of expressive individuals who come together to create themed camps, unique vehicles, and incredible costumes. The atmosphere is filled with fantastic music and an overall sense of possibility. It’s a glimpse into a world where things can be different, where imagination knows no bounds.

If you’re excited to be a part of this extraordinary experience, you can find more information by contacting [email protected] and visiting their comprehensive websitehere.

John Dory’s Orange River Canoe Marathon

Hey there! If you’re up for some adventure, mark your calendars for the 25th John Dory’s Orange River Canoe Marathon. It’s happening on April 28th and 29th, 2012. The race takes place on the thrilling rapids of the Orange River in Hopetown, Northern Cape.

This race is not only a chance for some fun, but also the official SA K3 championships for the second year running. If you’re a senior participant, the entry fee is R250, and for junior participants, it’s R175 per paddler. The best part? You get a tasty meal after each day’s race, and they even give you a cool bag and a cap!

To register, you can either pre-register by April 20th or sign up on the day of the event. To pre-register or get more information, you can give Rudi a call at +27 (0)79 876 4875 or shoot him an email at [email protected] If you prefer, you can also check out their website.

Now, onto the Western Cape. From April 26th to April 29th, get ready for the Decorex Cape Town event. It’s going to be a blast!

Hey there! I bet you’ve been spending a lot of time at home lately, and maybe you’ve noticed that your interior could use a little pick-me-up. Well, I’ve got just the thing for you! Come on down to the Cape Town International Convention Centre for the amazing Decorex Cape Town event. It’s won tons of awards and trust me, it’s an absolute inspiration-fest!

At Decorex Cape Town, you’ll find the most incredible collection of exhibitors, design icons, and rising stars. It’s a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration. From beautiful furniture to stylish kitchens and bathrooms, gorgeous fabrics, and stunning decor accessories, they’ve got it all. They even have lighting, fine finishes, and everything you need for both indoor and outdoor living.

And the best part? It’s super affordable! Adults can get in for just R65, while pensioners and students only have to pay R55. And if you’ve got little ones, they can join in on the fun for just R10. Doesn’t get much better than that!

If you want more information, you can give them a call at +27 (0)11 549 8300 or visit their website. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this incredible event!

Prince Albert Town and Olive Festival

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Saturday 28 April 2012

Are you a fan of olives? Then you’re in luck! Come join me in Prince Albert for an incredible celebration of food and fun! There’s so much to see and do, from exciting games and activities to exploring the charming town and all its artistic treasures. Every corner is filled with unique architecture, mesmerizing art, and vibrant music. Don’t forget to visit the art galleries, stroll through beautiful gardens, and browse through the one-of-a-kind shops. But the real star of the show is the local food and wine. You’ll be in heaven with the fresh produce, organic veggies, mouthwatering olives and olive oil, and the legendary Karoo lamb. And if that’s not enough, there’s an abundance of fresh and dried fruits to tickle your taste buds. Need more info? Just contact the Prince Albert Tourism Office at +27 (0)23 5411 366 or click here for festival details and accommodation options. Get ready for a feast for the senses at the Cederberg Arts Festival!

Come on down and have a blast at the Clanwilliam and Cederberg weekend extravaganza! Folks from all over, near and far, flock to experience the magic that explodes onto Main Street during the festival. Make sure you don’t miss the grand opening ceremony, where both local and national talents take the stage to dazzle and delight. There’s no shortage of entertainment with a variety of shows, book exhibitions, lectures, and workshops happening in different venues. Got any questions? Just give Clanwilliam Tourism a shout at +27 (0)27 482-2024.

The Dirtopia Mountain Bike Festival

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Sunday 29 April 2012

If you’re someone who loves exploring new paths on two wheels, then this festival is perfect for you. The Dirtopia Mountain Bike Festival is the original and only true MTB festival in South Africa. It takes place at Tarentaalkraal campsite, near Greyton in the Overberg. It’s an exciting weekend filled with activities for people of all ages. You can enjoy night rides, trail riding, gravity events like downhill, dual, and dirt jumping, cross country fun-rides, a trail run, and kid’s activities.

You have the option to camp for three days or just for a day. Prices range from R150 to R200 per day, which includes camping and riding. If you pre-enter, you’ll even get a T-shirt and goody bag. If you want more information, call +27 (0)21 884-4752 or email [email protected] You can also visit the event website for more details.

Franschhoek Mystery Weekend

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Saturday 28 April 2012

Get ready for an extraordinary adventure and add some excitement to your life with the Franschhoek Mystery Weekend! Trust me, this event happening in the beautiful Franschhoek Wine Valley is going to be the ultimate surprise of 2012. Here’s how it works: the amazing folks at the Franschhoek Wine Valley offices will handpick a variety of fabulous Franschhoek experiences and put together a totally unique Mystery Weekend Package just for you and your partner. And the best part? You won’t have a clue about where you’ll be staying, what delicious meals await you, or what other incredible activities are in store. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you in awe!

For an incredibly low price of R1 850 per couple, you’ll get to indulge in the finest Franschhoek has to offer during this rare opportunity. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to create lifelong memories. To book your spot, call Carmen on +27 (0)21 876 2861 or email [email protected]

SA Cheese Festival

When: Friday 27 April 2012 to Monday 30 April 2012

Even if you already have plans, you might want to reconsider and make room for this mouthwatering event. Get ready to loosen your belt and head over to the SA Cheese Festival at Sandringham Estate in Stellenbosch. Trust me, it’s worth stopping by, especially if you’re a cheese lover or if you simply enjoy trying new flavors. From fantastic wines to crunchy nuts and succulent olives, there will be a wide range of delicacies to satisfy your taste buds. At the 2012 SA Cheese Festival, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

The entrance fee is just R110 and it includes a handy shopping bag, a festival program, and delicious tastings. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch demonstrations by famous South African food experts. And don’t worry, if you love wine, you can purchase a wine tasting glass at the entrance. The festival even has discounted tickets for senior citizens at R90, and children under 13 get in for free!

Make sure to grab your tickets from any Computicket outlet across the country. For more information, give them a call at +27 (0)21 975-4440/1/2/3 or visit their website.

Delta Draf at Solms-Delta

When: Saturday 28 April 2012

On Saturday 28 April 2012, I had the pleasure of participating in the Delta Draf at Solms-Delta. This exciting event takes place in the breathtaking vineyards that surround the Solms Delta wine estate, located on the R45 to Franschhoek. Year after year, this race has established itself as a beloved fixture on the Cape running calendar.

If you’re a licensed athlete, the entry fee is R35, and if you’re an unlicensed athlete, it’s R55. For those looking for a fun run, the price is set at a reasonable R15. After the race, you have the opportunity to relax and unwind to the sounds of live traditional Cape rural music, performed by the talented Delta bands. And while you’re enjoying the music, why not treat yourself to a delicious meal?

If you’re interested in learning more about the Delta Draf, don’t hesitate to call +27 (0)21 874‑3937 or click here.

Energy Expo

When: Monday 30 April 2012 to Tuesday 01 May 2012

Mark your calendars for the Energy Expo, taking place from Monday 30 April 2012 to Tuesday 01 May 2012. This incredible event is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the world of energy.

The Energy Expo offers a unique opportunity to discover the latest advancements and innovations in the field of energy. From renewable energy sources to cutting-edge technologies, you’ll find it all at this expo.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to attend the informative workshops and seminars hosted by industry experts. These sessions will provide valuable insights and help you stay up to date with the latest trends.

Interested in attending the Energy Expo? Don’t miss out on this incredible event. Mark the dates in your calendar and get ready to dive into the exciting world of energy!

Hey, why not give your brain a workout at the Whale Coast Conservation’s Energy Expo? It’s a super fun and educational event for both kids and grown-ups, and best of all, it’s free! You’ll find all sorts of cool stuff there like solar toys, wind generators, a merry-go-round, and even a bungee-jumping bear. Plus, you can get hands-on with some awesome experiments and learn all kinds of fascinating facts about energy. So why not head on down to the Whale House Lawns and Village Square in Hermanus? You might just come away with a few conservation tricks up your sleeve. Click here to find out more.

Freestate Events

Bloemfontein Show

When: Thursday 26 April 2012 to Saturday 05 May 2012

If you find yourself in the Freestate this Freedom Weekend, don’t miss out on the Bloemfontein Show at the Showgrounds, Curie Avenue, Bloemfontein. This show is one of the biggest agricultural and entertainment events in South Africa and is among the top three shows in the country. People from all over South Africa and even from other parts of the world flock to the show, with approximately 160,000 visitors attending each year. You can contact Elmarie Prinsloo at +27 (0)51 4489 894/5/6 or visit the website for more details.

In case you’re more interested in events happening in the Eastern Cape, check out the East London Show. It will be held from Friday, April 27, 2012, to Tuesday, May 1, 2012.

Hey there! Are you tired of going to the beach all the time during this chilly weather? Well, I’ve got some exciting news for you! The East London Agricultural and Industrial Society is an awesome organization that provides a platform for all kinds of stalls to showcase their stuff. And guess what? They’re having an event at the East London Show Grounds and Gonubie Farmers Hall, where you and your family can have a blast!

There’s gonna be so much entertainment for everyone. You can enjoy a fun fair, go on bumper car rides, and there’s even more in store for you! If that sounds amazing, give Fiona a call at +27 (0)82 874 8214 or Theunis at +27 (0)83 281 9556. You can also visit their website for more details.

I’m pretty sure your Freedom Day weekend just got a whole lot more exciting! Mine certainly did.

If you know about any other cool events happening over the long weekend, be sure to leave us a comment below!