March, in the wine industry, symbolises the celebration of the harvest. With this in mind, the inaugural Vendange Celebration (French for harvest) will be held on Saturday, 13 March, where visitors are invited to join in with the celebrations of harvest.
In keeping with the French heritage and, true to tradition, a long and exceptionally colourful harvest table will be set up in the centre of the town, welcoming locals and visitors to sit down to a sumptuous feast. A traditionally bountiful French inspired feast of mouth-watering delights, prepared by some of the village's passionate chefs, awaits. Guests will also get the opportunity to mingle with some of Franschhoek's well-known and award-winning winemakers and sample the area's finest wines.
Grape stomping
Before tucking in, guests are invited to work up a hefty appetite and partake in the age old art of grape stomping. With just under a ton of grapes being made available for this popular festival activity, it is certainly an event not to be missed.
As Franschhoek has so much to offer, visitors are encouraged to come early and make the most of the celebrations. This should give you ample time for a leisurely stroll down the main road, uncovering world-class shops and boutiques, allowing for an intimate and relaxed shopping experience, before the festivities get under way.
B&Bs
Turn the celebration into a weekend of discovery. Book into one of the town's luxuriously quaint, yet affordable B&Bs or guest houses, and discover all that Franschhoek has to offer. Visit www.franschhoek.org.za for accommodation suggestions.
Tickets to this unforgettable event cost R550 per person (R450 per person for Franschhoek locals). Your all-inclusive ticket includes, amongst others, entry to the Vendange Celebration, participation in the grape stomping, live entertainment, a bountiful feast, as well as an abundance of some of
Franschhoek's award-winning wines.
Contact Carmen on +27 (0)21 876 2861 or for ticket purchases, times or any other queries. Alternatively tickets can be purchased through Franschhoek Info Centre, situated on the Franschhoek main road.
