If you’re in the vicinity Franschhoek during July, try to visit the town over the weekend closest to Bastille Day (14th July) when the village celebrates its French heritage.
Bastille Festivities in Franschhoek
The French heritage of more than 300 years is clearly evident in the wine and food tradition of the village. Over the weekend of 13th and 14th July, the town will again be coloured in red, white and blue when the 2013 Franschhoek Bastille Festival takes place.
The Food and Wine Marquee in the Main street, open from 12pm until 5pm, is the focal point of the festival. A popular meeting place, the marquee allows visitors the chance to meet up with friends while enjoying superb wines from some of Franschhoek’s award-winning wine estates, and indulge in appetizing dishes created by some of the Valley’s highly acclaimed chefs.
Other festival activities include boules, the Waiters’ Race, the Franschhoek minstrel parade, as well as the popular barrel-rolling contest. A farmers’ market, craft market stalls, musicians and children’s activities are also included in the line up of festival celebrations.
For those interested in tracing their French roots, a visit to the magnificent Huguenot Museum and monument is highly recommended.
The Bastille Trail Run takes place on Saturday 13th July and this is a wilderness adventure for which you need to be prepared. The Bastille MTB Classic on Sunday 14th July starts at the Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek over 10km, 28km and 42km distances. After the events, participants can join festive activities in the Main Street for a vibrant mix of good food and wine.
It is recommended that you stay over for the weekend, but you need to book accommodation now.
For further details please see the Festival Programme.
