Hazendal Festival Soil Edition: Celebrating South Africa’s land, art and culture
The Hazendal Festival Soil Edition kicks off today at Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, offering a weekend of cultural events centred on our connection to the land.
The Hazendal Festival | Soil Edition, taking place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October 2024 at Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, offers a unique weekend of cultural experiences for the whole family.
Curated by renowned South African curator Khanyisile Mbongwa, the festival focuses on the theme of soil as a vital, life-giving element.
Guided by the Nguni proverb “Belele nje, Abathulanga” (translated as “They may be asleep, but they are not quiet”), the festival will explore land, heritage, and our shared responsibility to care for the earth.
The weekend’s activities will feature a variety of events, including art installations, live performances, workshops, and food and wine pairings.
Highlights include a sculpture commission by Thania Petersen, live interventions by Sethembile Msezane, and Sisonke Papu’s installation “ISIKHUMBUZ: Pillar of Remembrance,” which reflects on humanity’s relationship with nature and indigenous knowledge systems.
In the evening the Hazendal Estate will come alive with a celebration of land, heritage, and shared experiences.
Live music sets the tone for an evening of dance, Zolani Mahola and The Feminine Force as well as Tebogo Louw and DJs Daddy, Gontse and Ghost Bunny will play a mix of genres from afro to deep house.
The festival will also host an academic symposium, where artists, scientists, and cultural practitioners will engage in conversations about land, belonging, and environmental responsibility.
Speakers include Professor Sechaba Bareetseng, Simeon Materechera, and Faye Kabali-Kagwa.
For younger visitors, visual artist Faatimah Mohamed-Luke has designed a series of creative workshops to inspire children’s curiosity and connection to the environment. These sessions will run alongside the main programme on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
Food lovers can look forward to a special dining experience with chef Vusi Ndlovu and Hazendal’s Head Chef Michelle Theron, as well as wine and vodka tastings.
There will also be a launch of a limited edition Hazendal MCC label designed by artist Athi-Patra Ruga.
IOL Entertainment