It is waterblommetjie season and time to enjoy this local delicacy at the annual Waterblommetjie Festival in Paarl on Saturday 6 September. A whole day of family-friendly activities is planned with waterblommetjies at centre stage.
Farm fun at Windmeul
Start the day at Windmeul Kelder with the monthly farmers’ market, where you can get a hearty breakfast, browse the stalls and buy fresh produce. Watch the entrants in the potjiekos competition battle it out. Enjoy a waterblommetjiebredie (stew) and wine pairing between 10:00 and 12:00 featuring the recipe from last year’s winners with the 2023 Pinotage or this year’s Chenin Blanc. Special offers on Windmeul Wines are available at the tasting venue. Live music during the day will add to the festive mood. Fitness enthusiasts can enter the Run the Vines trail run for an easy 5km, a 10km or the more challenging 17km route. There is a specially dedicated play area for kids with a jumping castle, face painting and balloon twisting.
Die Ou Meul Bakkery will be selling their delicious steak and waterblommetjie pies and fresh punnets of waterblommetjies.
Refined elegance at Rhebokskloof
Visitors to Rhebokskloof can look forward to an exciting day for the whole family. Book via Dineplan for their special Waterblommetjie and Wine Pairing. There will be only two sessions at 11:30 and 13:00 with limited seating, so book now to avoid disappointment. R295 per person. Five wines from their Flatrock and Rhebokskloof ranges will be paired with a selection of decadent bite-sized dishes like waterblommetjie and pork belly, waterblommetjie and lamb spanakopita, a waterblommetjie and haloumi kebab and a waterblommetjie beef tartlet with caramelized onion.
Their monthly market features delicious eats, artisanal drinks and unique craft stalls. The Rhebokskloof stand will offer a selection of dishes inspired by the star of the day, such as a waterblommetjie lamb bredie, a salad with waterblommetjies, three beans and chickpeas as well as a Spanish style waterblommetjie chicken paella. Bok supporters can watch the game against New Zealand on the big screen at 09:05. Live music by a 3-piece country band will add to the festive atmosphere.
A jumping castle and vast lawns will provide entertainment for the kids. MTB enthusiasts can join Paarl Trails at 08:00 for a guided outride on the picturesque estate. Distances vary from 20km – 50km trails.
Rural charm at Domaine Brahms
Head to the fascinating Domaine Brahms for an exploration for young and old. Kids will love the jumping pillow, waterslide, face painting and kids’ play area. Live music will add great vibes throughout the day.
Explore the farm during a leisurely tractor ride or go for an easy 1km hike through the vineyards. Find hidden treasures at the Snuffelstasie with all kinds of collectibles and memorabilia.
Try their tasty John Deere Burger with a beef patty on roosterkoek or a bun, waterblommetjie stew with rice or their popular venison pie with added waterblommetjies.
Dance the night away at The Vow Venue
Finish the day on a high note with the Waterblommetjie Country Langarm dance (just a lekker sokkie!) at The VOW Venue. Free entry on a first-come, first-served basis. Cash bar with light snack options available. Limited indoor tables with cozy outdoor fireplaces and seating with lawn games to keep the kids entertained.
Entry to festival venues is free, but dependent on the capacity of each venue. Follow the festival on social media @Waterblommetjiefees or www.waterblommetjiefees.com for updates.
