Franschhoek Bastille Festival - A Celebration of Freedom 12

Once again, Franschhoek, South Africa’s Gourmet Capital, will be commemorating its centuries-old French Huguenot heritage at its annual Bastille Festival on the weekend of July 12 and 13.

The Franschhoek Wine Valley is inextricably linked with the pursuit of freedom: not only is it where the French Huguenots sought refuge from persecution, but Franschhoek also houses Drakenstein prison (formerly Victor Verster), the prison from which Nelson Mandela was released in 1990. The Bastille Festival celebrates the collective theme of freedom, marrying South African and French history at the heart of both, Franschhoek. So, come along and paint the town red, white and blue and join in ‘A Celebration of Freedom’.

As always, the Bastille Food and Wine Marquee, in the village centre, will be open from 12 noon to 6pm on both Saturday and Sunday. This focal point draws people to the hub of activity and fervour, where they can sample fine wines from Franschhoek’s well-loved wineries and indulge in delectable dishes created by highly esteemed chefs, ranging from: oysters, sushi, local and French cheeses to charcuterie, hand-made chocolates and salmon trout from the Valley. There will be the usual activities of: boules, floats, a chefs and waiters’ race, a farmers market, kiddies soccer, a barrel-rolling contest, mountain-biking, French movies screened at Le Quartier Francais’ Screening Room, craft market stalls, musicians and children’s activities. Award-winning restaurants will also be composing special menus exclusive to Bastille.

The Bastille Invitational Golf Day (a four-ball) is to be held on Friday, 11 July at Pearl Valley, where pros, amateurs and celebrities will all be fighting it out on the fairways! Saturday, 12 July promises to lure athletes and patriots alike with events like: The Freedom Run which is not to be missed if you are a fitness fanatic, and, perhaps, the most popular drawcard, The Long Walk. Last year’s inaugural commemorative walk was so successful, and this year’s promises to be more so. The walk traverses the route of freedom from Drakenstein Prison to the Huguenot Monument in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, and pays homage to Nelson Mandela and his historic release from prison. This year, the walk will once again be led by fellow comrade and Franchhoek patron, Tokyo Sexwale. The momentous walk is dedicated to honouring the iconic Madiba’s life, who will be celebrating his 90th birthday on 18 July 2008.

So, with something for everyone, make a weekend of your visit, taking full advantage of the many Bastille accommodation packages on offer. Come celebrate the universal triumph of freedom. C’est la vie!