French Huguenots were already settled in Franschhoek and making a pretty decent wine when the Bastille prison was stormed in Paris on 14 July 1789, marking the beginning of the French Revolution. This event is celebrated with gusto anywhere the French can be found, and since Franschhoek considers itself more French than anything else, it is fitting that they should mark the event with a Bastille Festival this Saturday and Sunday – 16/17 July.

You will be spoilt for choice with delicious wines and divine food like oysters, sushi, local fresh salmon trout and hand-made chocolates, to mention but a few.

Here are our top five not-to-be-missed highlights of the festival:
1. Food & Wine Marquee – Find your friends at this popular meeting place, while enjoying fine wines from some of Franschhoek’s award-winning estates, and indulging in mouth-watering dishes created by the valley’s highly acclaimed chefs. Saturday and Sunday, 12 – 5pm.
2. Barrel Rolling Contest – Watch the hilarious antics set to start at 2pm on Saturday and Sunday.
3. Waiters’ Race – For a good laugh, find your spot in the Main Road at 10am on Saturday.
4. Franschhoek Minstrel Parade – The mingling of South African and French traditions, the festivities start at 11am on Saturday in the Main Road.
5. French Corner Market (also known as Le Marché Français) – Showing off delicious Franschhoek artisanal foods, as well as fun-filled kiddies’ activities. Open on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 5pm in the Town Hall.

Cost: The R100 entrance fee gives you a tasting glass, a booklet of complimentary tasting coupons and access to the Food and Wine Marquee. Thereafter all tastings are charged on consumption. Get your tickets online.

*Our competition has closed! CONGRATULATIONS to our winners: Leigh-Ann Combrink and Ann Wilson!

Thank you for your support – look out for our next competition coming soon.