Keep warm with these upcoming Western Cape food festivals
And it's not just food that these gatherings serve. Live music, craft stalls and outdoor adventures are on the menu, too.
So, if a plate of oysters and a glass of wine sounds like a good recipe to you, here are the top winter food festivals in the Western Cape.
For those who really love their fish (and sweet potatoes), this little festival in South Africa could be a dream come true. It's hosted by the tiny village of Goedverwacht, which is just 90 minutes from Cape Town.
The highlight of this festival is, of course, the snoek, which is marinated in various flavours and braaied on a big open fire. Visitors can also browse craft stalls and enjoy live local music. 27-29 June
Raaswater Farm, Goedverwacht
Knysna, famous for its lagoon and forests, will again show off its culinary side this July. The Knysna Oyster Festival will see foodies flock to the town, all in pursuit of the perfect oyster. But it's not only the mollusc that's on the menu at this Western Cape food festival.
Festival-goers can enjoy tastings of South Africa's best teas and chocolates. There's also plenty of live music, crafts and outdoor adventures on the programme. Certainly, this annual event is not to be missed this winter. 4-13 July
across Knysna, Garden Route
Charming Franschhoek will once again embrace its French roots with the return of its Bastille Day celebrations. In the winelands, this holiday is all about the food.
Expect glasses and glasses of the area's best wines, as well as cheeses and other gourmet French fare. Don't forget to don your best beret and dress in blue, white and red because there will be a Best Dressed Competition! 12-13 July
central Franschhoek
Not to be outdone by its Winelands rival Franschhoek, Stellenbosch also hosts one of the Western Cape's top winter food festivals. This one is all about the wine: 60 of the country's top vineyards will serve over 200 premier wines.
This year's festival also celebrates the centenary of the pinotage. Alongside the wines will be a traditional harvest table with small servings of different appetisers and delicacies.
In the lead-up to the actual gathering, wine lovers can also enjoy a variety of events at wine estates in the area. These promise unique access to the best vineyards around the town. 2-3 August
Stellenbosch Town Hall
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