Check out the hottest events and things to do in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town this August.
Incredibly, August is upon us which means spring is not far away! 2016 is rushing past in a blur but that doesn’t mean you can’t take time out to relax and enjoy the finer things in life. Check out what’s happening in your city with the following handy events guide.
Johannesburg:
Vaal River Meander Wine Route
Cape Town may be famous for its wine related events but Gauteng has something in store for wine lovers too! From the 16th of July until the 21st of August, guests can enjoy outings linked to the Vaal River Meander Wine Route. Over the course of several weekends, 17 different vendors on and around the Vaal River will make available some of South Africa’s best wines. Dozens of wine estates will be represented with over 200 wines to indulge in. The Vaal River Meander Wine Route stands out from other similar events in that it offers more days than any other for guests to enjoy the wares. Notably the wines will be served via a variety of different platforms including hotels, pubs, casinos, wine cellars, luxury cruisers, water taxis, tour buses and even vintage cars. Special packages can be arranged where hotel stays, tours, food pairings and spa treatments and the like are included. In other words, the meander is the ideal reason to get out of bed on a cold winter’s weekend and make the most of it. Tastings range from R20 to R40 per person.
For more information, go to Vaal Wine route
A great, budget-friendly night out
Silverstar Casino is offering a great ‘Night Out for 2’ package from the 15th of July to the 29th of September. For just R300, a couple can enjoy a three course meal, movies, drinks, ‘FreePlay’ at the casino and ten pin bowling. Parking is also included. Guests have the choice of dining at Vigour & Verve, Billy G, Publicity, Calisto’s, Silver Arrow Spur or Black Cherry. Needless to say the deal represents excellent value for money and is great for those on a budget.
For more information and to book your voucher go to Tsogo Sun
First Thursdays
If you’re at a loss for something to do during the first week of the month, you could always try out ‘First Thursdays’. First Thursdays is a cultural event modelled on a successful Cape Town initiative. In line with the Johannesburg version, art galleries and other cultural attractions in Braamfontein, Maboneng and Rosebank stay open late on the first Thursday of every month. Although based on the Cape Town model, First Thursdays Johannesburg has evolved and taken on its own unique character. According to the hosts: “The night is as much about experiencing art and culture as it is about exploring the city on foot.” Various highlights are suggested but visitors are encouraged to “let the night take its own course.” The event is free.
For more information, go to First Thursdays
Cape Town:
Go slow
Ever felt like you do nothing but rush around? The Robertson Valley Slow Food & Wine Festival presents an ideal opportunity to take things slow and enjoy the finer things in life. In addition to a wonderful family market with wine tasting, fresh produce, local fare, live music and family activities, visitors will be able to interact with wine-makers and farmers while relaxing in the countryside. So switch off your phone, go slow and enjoy all that the festival has to offer. The festival takes place from the 5th to the 7th of August at various venues throughout the Robertson Valley. Costs vary per activity.
For more information, go to Robertson Slow
Nature at its best
If you’re a nature lover, then make your way to Nature’s Best Photography (NBP) Africa 2016 Exhibition at the Iziko South African Museum. Here you’ll find the winning images from the NBP competition which is lauded as the premier annual African focused nature photography competition. The winning images were selected from a host of photos submitted by international photographers. 12 categories feature including, amongst others, African Wildlife Portfolio, African Image of the Year, African Landscapes, Wild Cats of Africa Behavioral, Africa at Sea, Wild Cats of Africa portraits and Art in African Wildlife. Winners were awarded photographic trips to some of Africa’s top wildlife destinations. Needless to say the images are spellbinding. Entrance to the gallery costs a mere R15-R30. The exhibition runs until the 25th of September.
For more information, go to Iziko Museums of South Africa
Antiques for a good cause
The SA Riding for Disabled Association’s 38th annual antiques faire will once again be held at the Great Cellar, Alphen Hotel, Constantia. A wide variety of antiques ranging from large furniture to beautiful, dainty collectables will be showcased. Antique dealers from around SA will exhibit at the fair which runs from the 19th to the 21st of August. The venue is stunning, the exhibitors happy to share their knowledge and buyers can purchase pieces safe in the knowledge that it’s for a good cause. Friday’s entrance costs R60 and includes a glass of wine and finger snacks. Entrance on Saturday and Sunday costs just R30.
For more information, contact phillipa@towercapital.co.za
Durban:
Freedom of expression at its most daring
If you’re interested in freedom of expression (and you should be), the ‘Cartoons for Freedom’ should be right up your alley. Cartoons for Freedom features press cartoons by international artists, the aim of which is to stir up debate and discussion. In addition to freedom of expression, censorship, the Internet, corruption, women’s rights, rebellions, the climate, sports and racism are explored. The exhibition was curated by Institut Francais in collaboration with Courrier International and is open until the 5th of August at Alliance Francaise de Durban. Entrance is free.
For more information, go to Alliance Francaise SA
Six of the best
The Barnyard Theatre is doing what it does best – putting on a tribute show to some of the music industry’s most famous and best loved performers. This particular show pays tribute to Freddie Mercury, Bon Jovi, Meat Loaf, Billy Joel, Cher and Pink whose hits will be performed by a talented 11 piece cast. Six of the Best is guaranteed to get your feet tapping and make for a memorable and affordable night out. The show runs until the 28th of August at the Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Ticket prices range from R70 to R155.
For more information, go to Barnyard Theatre
A market with a conscience
The Golden Hours Family Market is held every Sunday at Uitsig Road, Durban North with a view to raising funds for the Golden Hours School for Special Needs children. The quaint market takes place under mango trees and features a number of craft and food stalls, a book stall, a playground and plentiful parking. Kids can look forward to popcorn, candy floss, tractor and pony rides and adults can make use of a hairdresser, get a manicure or enjoy tea at the tea garden. The market is open from 10am to 3.30pm. Entrance is free.
For more information, contact ghfamilymarket@gmail.com
