Every year, southern right whales migrate from their icy feeding grounds off Antarctica to warmer climates, reaching the South African Whale Coast in June and will stay until early December. These coastal waters will then team with the giant mammals, mating, calving, and rearing their young – and giving whale-watchers spectacular displays of raw power and elegant water acrobatics incredibly close to shore.
The annual Hermanus Whale Festival is a celebration of the return of the southern right whales to the coastal waters of Southern Africa. It is a tribute to the legacy left to the town by Wendy the Whale, whose story is about man’s ability to live in harmony with nature as well as people’s ability to come together as communities valuing the environment. All events and activities during the whale festival are focused to create awareness on how to protect the whales and all our marine wildlife who share our coastal waters. The festival takes place from 30 September – 2 October 2022 which is the peak of whale activity in the region.
Over a period of 3 days, Hermanus will once again burst into life when thousands of visitors descend upon the town to join in the festivities of this popular event. Now in its 31st year and the 30th festival, the Hermanus Whale Festival is the oldest and largest festival on the South African whale coast calendar and while the whales are predominantly the star performers at the festival, these gentle giants will be joined on land by quality entertainers and musicians, an array of food stalls, kiddies activities, and events suitable for both the young and old.
The heartbeat of the whale festival, the Eco-Marine Tent, has become the festival’s biggest attraction. Informative and entertaining, with a focused appeal to children, adults and anyone who cares about preserving our ocean wildlife. The aim of the Eco Marine Tent and the Hermanus Whale Festival is to inspire visitors through informative, colourful, interactive displays, films, music, arts and food and informative talks by marine biologists and experts.
The program will once again include land & boat-based whale watching, arts and crafts, an orchid show, Whales and Wheels Classic Car Show, Marine Mammal & Eco Talks, Festival of Whales Street Parade, Shop-till-you-drop stalls, Kiddies Whale of a Beach Clean-Up in the Old Harbour and on the Cliff Path, kiddies’ movies and entertainment. The very popular Pirate & Mermaid Treasure Hunt is extended over two days and will once again have many giveaway prizes! Everyone who plays wins a prize!
For more information visit www.hermanuswhalefestival.co.za
