One of the Cape Winelands’ most anticipated food and wine events is set to return when the 16th annual Waterblommetjie Festival takes place on Saturday, 5 September. Celebrating one of the Western Cape’s most iconic indigenous ingredients, the festival promises a full day of exceptional food, award-winning wines and family entertainment across three picturesque wine estates near Paarl.
This year’s festival once again brings together Windmeul Kelder, Rhebokskloof Estate and Domaine Brahms, with each venue offering its own unique programme of activities. Conveniently located just a few kilometres apart, visitors can easily spend the day exploring all three destinations.
Windmeul Kelder, the original home of the festival, will host its popular farmer’s market alongside a hearty breakfast, live music and the ever-popular potjiekos competition. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take part in the Run the Vine trail run through the surrounding vineyards before enjoying complimentary waterblommetjiebredie paired with Windmeul wines. Families will find plenty to keep younger visitors entertained with dedicated children’s activities throughout the day.
At Rhebokskloof Estate, the spotlight falls on expertly paired food and wine experiences. Guests can book a tapas and wine pairing featuring five carefully matched dishes and wines, while the estate’s restaurant will showcase a creative menu inspired by the humble waterblommetjie. A specially crafted waterblommetjie margarita also adds a contemporary twist to the day’s celebrations.
Domaine Brahms offers a relaxed country atmosphere with buffet brunches, themed high teas, garden picnics and family-friendly attractions, including the Rooibus Playpark. Visitors can also explore the vintage car museum, admire classic vehicles on display and sample a variety of inventive waterblommetjie dishes paired with the estate’s wines.
The festival has become a much-loved celebration of local heritage, showcasing how this uniquely South African ingredient continues to inspire chefs, winemakers and home cooks alike. Whether you’re discovering waterblommetjies for the first time or returning for a favourite seasonal tradition, the festival offers an authentic taste of the Boland’s rich culinary culture.
The Waterblommetjie Festival begins from 08:00 on Saturday, 5 September. Some experiences require advance booking, particularly food and wine pairings and special dining events, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. For full programme details and bookings, visit the festival website before making your way to one of the Cape Winelands’ most distinctive annual celebrations.
