Here are my top picks for the weekend ahead.

French Market at Alliance Francaise

The French Market outside Alliance Francaise has moved from Wednesdays to Fridays, and will be held this morning from 10am until 2pm. This is a market that sells “genuine imported French cheeses, traditional breads, foie gras, rillettes, terrines and pâtés, chestnuts, vinegars and other condiments”.

Venue: Alliance Francaise (155 Loop Street)
Date & Time: Friday 10am – 2pm.
Contact: Suzanne 083 300 6725 or suzanne@frenchmarket.co.za

Constantia Waldorf Night Market

Love this market!  Monthly summer night market at the Constantia Waldorf School, in Spaanschematriver Road (next to Peddlars).  It’s a feast of wholesome food and gourmet delights, hand-crafted products and has a wonderfully festive atmosphere.  A great way to spend a Friday evening, especially if you’re looking for a laid-back option.

Venue: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschematriver Road, Constantia.
Date & Time: 5pm to 9pm (on every last Friday of the month, in summer).
Contact: John on 0826310421.

Nitida Market

Friday (evening) and Saturday (morning).
Here’s what’s on the cards: “Ready to eat or take away food on Friday night with the accompaniment of award winning Nitida wines, Hamburgers, Curries & Thai Cuisine. On Saturday – come early for breakfast & fill up those empty cupboards! Meat from our local butchery for the traditional local Braai, chilli products to die for (can personally recommend the sweet mustard) – Free range Eggs & Chickens, Organic Nuts, Dried Fruit, Olives & Oils. This & plenty more is available from 45 different stalls on both days”.

Venue: Nitida Estate, Durbanville
Date & Time: Friday 28 January from 5pm – 9.30pm | Saturday 29 January from 8.00am – 12.30noon.
Contact: Getha Havenga 083 651 0699

Quadrant Market

New morning market held in Claremont.  “Stalls will be set up on the leafy Library Square that forms part of the precinct, and visitors will have the choice of a wide variety of items for sale. These include designer clothing, freshly baked breads, artisan goods, boutique wines, homemade preserves, olives, gourmet food, seasonal items, crafts, artwork from local artists and plants & herbs”.

Venue: Library Square at The Quadrant, Wilderness Rd, Claremont
Date: every Saturday from 29 January 2011
Time: 10am-2pm
Contact: Candice Botha 086 077 7232 or 082 802 2436 or email quadrant@swishevents.co.za

Hathersage Market (1st birthday)

This lovely food and goods market is held on Hathersage Farm, in Somerset West.  It has a wonderful vibe, set by the riverside and under trees, and has some delicious treats on offer.  This weekend marks the market’s 1st birthday, and there will be plenty of festivities and giveaways to celebrate.

Venue: Hathersage Farm, Gordon Road, Somerset West (map)
Date: Sunday 30 January 2011
Time: 9am-2pm
Contact:  Sharon – info@tomarketwithlove.co.za

Book Launch: Seed to Table

Date 2010, 10 December |Time 6 for 6.30pm | Location Kalk Bay Books, 124 Main Road, Kalk Bay
The launch of a very special cookbook – one that shares the recipes and tells the stories of the dedicated urban farmers of Abalimi Bezekhaya.  (more info)

Terra Madre Day at Oude Molen Eco-Village

Date 2010, 11 December |Time 10am-5pm | Location Oude Molen Eco Village, Alexandra Road, Pinelands, Cape Town (more info)
Visit a mammoth event at Oude Molen Eco -Village. It presents an opportunity of experiencing farm living on a small scale! Visit Milly the pig who has given birth to 6 piglets at The Millstone Farmstall. Meander through the permaculture organic vegetable gardens at the eco-village. See a bio digester in action at John’s Yellow house and his giant veg in the garden.

Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price (Screening)

Date 2010, 11 December |Time 12 noon | Location Labia on Orange, 68 Orange Street, Gardens, Cape Town (more info)
Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price is a feature length documentary that uncovers the retail giants assault on America and the world by exploring the deeply personal stories and everyday lives of families and communities struggling to fight the goliath. The screening will be followed by a facilitated audience discussion. Tickets are R10 and can be reserved by calling The Labia at (021) 424 5927.

Imhoff Farm Christmas Gift Fair

Date 2010, 11&12 December |Time 10am-5pm | Location Imhoff Farm Stall, Kommetjie Road, Cape Town (more info)
Imhoff Farm will be holding a Christmas Gift Fair this weekend – with gifts, jewellery, festive food and there are plenty of activities for kids.

Alphen Antiques and Collectables Fair

Date 2010, 12 December |Time 10am-4pm | Location Alphen Centre, Main Road, Constantia Cape Town (opposite Constantia Village) (more info)
The last Alphen Antiques and Collectables Fairs of the year will take place on Sunday 12 and 19 December, between 10am and 4pm. A variety of items — including jewellery, glass, ceramics, silver, toys, books, coins, watches, medals, art and paintings etc — will be on sale. Entry is free, there is ample parking and fabulous food, wine, gourmet dishes and baked goods are also available. For further details call Des on 0846267499.

Kirstenbosch Craft Market

Date 2010, 12 December |Time 9am-3pm | Location Stone Cottages, opposite Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town (more info)
Lovely outdoor craft market that’s a great place to find interesting Christmas presents whilst enjoying being in the great outdoors.  Second-last one of the year!

Kirstenbosch Concert: Freshly Ground

Date 2010, 12 December |Time 5.30pm | Location Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town (more info)
I believe this concert is sold out, but if you’re a Freshlyground fan, you can still enjoy the music within the gardens themselves, without actually going to the concert.  Concert gates open at 16h00. Concerts are held between 17h30 and 19h00 and go ahead irrespective of the weather.

How the weekends roll on so quickly, I still don’t understand.  And now we’re into the final lap of the year… and silly season is about to descend!  I’ll be updating my list of Christmas Markets shortly (a few new exciting additions), but here are my top picks for the weekend ahead…

Cherry-picking at Klondyke Farm (Ceres)

Cherry-picking season is now open!  I’ve been wanting to go for years and finally got my act together this time around.  I’m a forager by nature – there’s something so satisfying about gathering your own food and then feasting upon it afterwards.  Quite a bit of my hoard is now infusing nicely with some Absolut Vodka… mmmm, looking forward to seeing how that turns out!

Anyway, from now until the New Year weekend, Klondyke Farm in Ceres will be open every day (7 days a week – except for Christmas Day) from 8.30am till 4.30pm.   The entry fee and price is R15.00 per person to come in, children under 6 years ‘free’. The price for the cherries you pick is R40.00 per kg (you can use the plastic punnets they provide, or bring your own container which then should be weighed before you start). www.cherryfarm.co.za.

Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival

3-5 December 2010.  Franschhoek.  R180 day pass.

The centrepiece of the festival will be a grand marquee on the sprawling lawns surrounding Franschhoek’s famous Huguenot Monument, where Cap Classique and Champagne stalls will be interspersed with restaurants offering delicious delicacies to match.  This year the festival will take full advantage of the Cape’s glorious summer evenings, with the festival open from 6pm to 10pm on Friday the 3rd, and then between 12pm and 6pm on both the 4th and 5th.

Entrance fee is R180.00 per person – includes access to the festival, a tasting glass and a complimentary booklet of tasting coupons. Thereafter all tastings will be charged on consumption.  www.webtickets.co.za

Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market – Christmas Candlelight Market

Friday 3 December 2010.  5pm-10pm  (continues on following day)

Stellenbosch in summer, at night, with candles… sounds just about right to me!  This is one of my favourite markets for ambiance and good food – and it sounds like they’re going all out to make this a really special evening.

“A big christmas tree, German Bratwurst, Turkey Stuffing, Brandy Butter, Gingerbread Cookies, Mince Pies, Gammon, Roasted Nuts, Pudding, Festive Decorations, Design, Gifts for Family & Friends, sunset & vineyard tables on the piazza…”

Location:  Oude Libertas, Stellenbosch.  Date: Friday 3 December 2010 5pm-10pm (market continues on Saturday 4 December, 9am-2pm).  Website: www.slowmarket.co.za

Lourensford Farmers Market

Every first weekend of the month Lourensford Wine Estate buzzes with excitement as people come and enjoy the Family Farmers’ Market.  I haven’t yet been, but I’ve heard good things about it… On offer:  food products, such as fresh breads baked by the French baker, vegetables and fruit from Lourensford, gourmet burgers by Saffron Cooking, breakfast pitas and fresh fish from the farm.

Saturday 4 December 2010.  Starts at 9am.  Lourensford Estate, Somerset West.  021 847-2259.  www.lourensford.co.za

Wynberg Village Market

Saturday 4 December 2010.

I’m not certain of full details, but there’s apparently a small Wynberg Village market that’s happening on Saturday 4 December 2010 (only 17 tables).  There will be stalls selling olives/olive oil, biscuits, baked goodies, fabric, antiques, jewellery, and organic veggies/seedlings.

Obs Holistic Fair

Sunday 5 Dec ’10. 10am-4pm. R10 for adults, u/16′s free. Observatory Recreation Centre, corner of Station, Lower Main and Drake streets.

Holistic therapists and life readers; vegetarian and organic food; ‘green’ products, plants and herbs; esoteric books and world music; unusual handcrafted goods; funky clothing, body art and jewellery; décor, unusual art and crafts: you’ll find all this and more at this popular bohemian lifestyle market in Obs this Sunday, and again just before Christmas (19 December 2010 – Christmas market).

Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts: Mango Groove

Sunday 5 December 2010.  5.30pm

This is certainly a blast from the past… Mango Groove and lead singer Claire Johnston have a career that spanned a turbulent time in South Africa’s history. Their first single went multi platinum in 1989 and they have since become a household name in this country. Their eclectic music can be described as South African pop.  Gates open at 16h00. Concerts are held between 17h30 and 19h00 and go ahead irrespective of the weather.

As for me, I’m going plum-picking with Slow Food Mother City at the lovely Avondale Farm… and very much looking forward to doing a bit more foraging!  Have a great weekend, y’all.

The new season of Kirstenbosch Summer Concerts kicked off yesterday with recently returned local band, Just Jinger. Judging from the traffic jam that followed, the drizzly weather proved no deterrent, and no doubt the season will be jam-packed as usual.

It’s one of the best ways to spend a Sunday afternoon in Cape Town – lolling about on the beautifully kept lawns of Kirstenbosch Gardens, snacking on picnic fare and enjoying some of South Africa’s best local music talent.

The event’s popularity does make it a bit crowded at times, but if you make sure to book your tickets in advance, and get there early, you’re bound to have a great time.

On the cards for the season ahead are the following performers:

(Source: WebTickets.com)

Summer has officially arrived!

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens are located on Rhodes Drive, Newlands.
Ticket sales: 021 761-2866/799-8782 Online ticket sales: www.webtickets.co.za. On Sundays tickets will be available at all three entrances.

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Rondebosch Potters Market

The Rondebosch Potters Market has been established since 1969, and is organized by the non-profit organization, Ceramics SA, which strives to promote ceramic talent. Local and country potters from the Western Cape come together at this event to sell their quality wares. Browse the colourful stalls and find some grub at one of the refreshment stands usually present to one side of the market.  This market only happens twice a year (November and March).

Saturday 20 November 2010. 8am-3pm. Rondebosch Park, corner of Sandown and Camp Ground Rds. Entry is free.

Art of Living Festival

60 stalls, healthy food, yoga and dance, secure, fun kids area, music, relaxation and so much more! Come and join us for a day of fun and festivity. Indulge the senses with delicious, healthy food and a feast of live music and dance. Relax your mind with meditation, invigorate your body with massage, find your balance in yoga. Enjoy the summer sun while browsing our stalls. Ranging from fresh, organic produce, speciality goods and green living to arts and crafts, clothing, books and music, there is something for everyone.

Saturday 20 November 2010 (9am till 6pm). Maynardville Park, Wynberg.
Entrance: R20. www.artofliving.org.za

2010 Jordan Summer Festival

Round-up the family and friends, it’s Festival time at Jordan again!  Expect a great day with loads to do!  FREE Wine Tastings, Cellar Tours, Barrel Tastings, Vineyard Tractor Tours,  Art Exhibition, LIVE music by Ramon Alexander, Treasure Hunt for the kids, & a CWG Tasting by Gary Jordan.  Gourmet Picnics by George Jardine – BOOKING ESSENTIAL.  For Lunch bookings contact the restaurant directly on 021 881 3612.  Contact Robyn for more info on 021 881 3441 or emai info@jordanwines.com for your booking form.  All proceeds in aid of the Stellenbosch Animal Welfare Society.

Date: Saturday, 20 November 2010.  Time: 10am – 4pm. Entrance: R60.00pp. FREE entry for children.

Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market

I haven’t been for a while, but after a bit of break earlier this year, the Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market is back in business, and will be holding their monthly event this coming Sunday (3rd Sunday of every month).  What you’ll find:  Freshly prepared foods, preserves, etc,  Alison’s Cakes made with fresh vegan produce, Natural, “green” and eco friendly items, Organic biltong, Vintage Japanese collectables, Organic plants & herbs, Handcrafted jewellery, decor, etc., Halaal & vegetarian delectables, Books new and old, Organically grown  herbs, fresh veg & plants, Farm fresh organic eggs, Plus entertainment provided by Dixieland Entertainers for children of all ages.

Sunday 21 November 2010.  10am to 3pm. Kalk Bay Community Centre. Kalk Bay. Enquiries: Petrina – 074 302  3254 / menngos@mweb.co.za  or Sheena – 079 5656 794 or organics@mweb.co.za

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts:  Just Jinger

Kirstenbosch’s awesome summer concert series kicks off this weekend with Just Jinger, who are now back in South Africa after having been based in Los Angeles for the past eight years.  A lazy Sunday afternoon, picnicking and listening to our fabulous local performers… what’s not to like?  More info

Sunday 21 November 2010.  5.30pm.  Tickets cost R70-R95.  Ticket sales: 021 761-2866/799-8782 Online ticket sales: www.webtickets.co.za On Sundays tickets will be available at all three entrances.

These are my top picks for the weekend ahead.

Franschhoek Bastille Festival

Franschhoek, 17-18 July 2010. www.franschhoek.org.za/festivals/franschhoek_bastille_festival_2010

Make your way to Franschhoek, South Africa’s Gourmet Capital, over the weekend of the 17th and 18th of July, where locals and visitors will be celebrating the Valley’s centuries-old French Huguenot heritage at its annual Bastille Festival.

And 2010 will without a doubt be a year of celebrations. Taking into account that South Africa will be winding down from the hype and festivities of World Cup 2010, what better way to paint the town red, white and blue and join in ‘A Celebration of Freedom’. Not forgetting, it’s the only time of the year you’ll be forgiven for wearing a beret.

Highlights:

• Food and Wine Marquee – open from 12 noon until 5pm.  The focus of the festival, where you can sample fine wines and try some inspired dishes created by the Valley’s highly acclaimed chefs (think oysters, sushi, local and French cheeses to charcuterie, hand-made chocolates, salmon trout from the area, and more).
• Then there’s games of boules, Franschhoek minstrel parade, a barrel-rolling contest and a waiters’ race. Check out the farmers’ market and French Corner Market, and be entertained by the musicians included in the line up of festival celebrations.
• The Screening Room at Le Quartier Français will be screening movies throughout the weekend.
• If you haven’t had your fill, stop in at some of Franschhoek’s award-winning restaurants, who will be offering special menus exclusively prepared for the Festival.

The French Corner Market, in case (like me) you’re wondering, will be held at the Franschhoek Town Hal and features “market baskets with local produce that is home-baked and hand-made – locally grown olives and their oils, fruit preserves, lavender and herb bouquets, spiced pomanders and honey products”.

A R100.00 per person entrance fee allows you access to the Food and Wine Marquee, which includes a tasting glass and a complimentary booklet containing 5 tasting coupons. Thereafter all tastings will be charged on consumption.  Tickets available through WebTickets.

Constantia Food & Wine Market – Launch

DATE:  Saturday 17 July 2010.  9am-2pm
LOCATION:  False Bay Rugby Club on the Constantia Sports Grounds, Constantia Main Road (opposite Constantia Village).

This brand new market will feature locally produced food, created by small producers specifically chosen because of their focus on “taste, variety and personal attention”.

On offer will be artisan breads, handmade cheeses, gourmet pastries, fresh and smoked fish, ‘decadent sweets and confectionery’, German and Dutch products, charcuterie, fresh juices, pure smoothies and many more taste tempting treats.  There’s a special area for kids, and plenty of parking.  (read more)

Fresh Etc Market

DATE:  Sunday 18 July 2010.  9am-2pm  (3rd Sunday of every month)
LOCATION:  Kalk Bay Community Centre, 26 Main Road, Kalk Bay (Opp. Dalebrook Beach)

Small food, fresh goods and lifestyle market overlooking False Bay (are the whales here yet?). No matter what the weather, you’ll find food and fresh goods, preserves and treats, farm produce, natural and organic, eco-friendly products and more. Gerald the Bee Whisperer is usually there too, with his Splendiferous Honey.

(Read more…)

Kirstenbosch Winter Concerts – CLAIRE PHILLIPS

Sunday 18 July 2010.  The Silver Tree Restaurant, Kirstenbosch NBG.

Winter has certainly arrived with a vengeance, and one way to soothe away the cares of an icy week is perhaps to cosy up to a roaring fire, listening to good local music and savouring a glass of red wine.  Every Sunday evening, the Silver Tree Restaurant at Kirstenbosch hosts some of our country’s talented artists, and this week’s performer is SAMA Award Winner Claire Phillips.

Ticket price R100 per person. Prices include a Welcome drink and a starter. For bookings please call 021 762 9585, or email: info@kirstenboschrestaurant.com

Last week of the World Cup, and second-last game to be played in our beautiful city this Saturday. It’s been quite a ride, and I am incredibly impressed with what excellent hosts we have been. I’ve watched a few football games in my day, but never thought I’d get quite as swept up in it all as I have this time around… I even lost my vuvuzela-virginity somewhere along the way, and parped with gusto (though not much skill) for a brief and glorious stint.

Well, it’s not over yet, and there’s plenty of entertainment on the go for locals and visitors alike… Here’s my pick of the foodie and greenie events on the go over the coming weekend.

Stellenbosch Wine Festival

1-5 July 2010.  Stellenbosch. R150/day-pass.

5 days of wine-tasting and exploration in leafy Stellenbosch.  A jam-packed programme of things to do and see and taste.  Tickets cost R150 for a single day pass, R500 for all five days (though one day is already used up).  Your ticket includes shuttle use (from the park-and-ride facilities provided for the event) and 5 vouchers to be redeemed at various wine estates for special festival offers.  www.wineroute.co.za/festival.asp

Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market – Food & Wine Fair

1-4 July 2010 (11am-9pm, closes 5pm on Saturday).  Oude Libertas, Stellenbosch. Entrance R50 or R20 with festival pass.

This already fabulous food market will be hosting a food and wine fair throughout the Wine Festival:

The heated marquee will feature over 40 German, British, European, Chinese, Indian and South African food stands, offering the best of which their countries have to offer. We have brought on new and interesting foods to our already popular mix of market exhibitors to include quail dishes, German liverspreads, lards and brawn, Belgium endives and preparation workshops, Italian sausage, bobotie spring rolls and cinnamon swirls, roasted caramel nuts .. just to mention a few.

A highlight of this, for those in search of good organic wines, is the Saltare Wine & Food Pairing:

Join Carla Pauw winemaker from Saltare who is offering free professional food and wine pairings in the main lounge area. You will also be introduced to a variety of her products and their newly launched Cap Classique. To avoid disapontment please pre-book with Saltare wines on info@saltarewines.com

And there’s loads more – get the full scoop at www.slowmarket.co.za

Kirstenbosch Winter Concerts – STERLING EQ

Sunday 20 June 2010.  The Silver Tree Restaurant, Kirstenbosch NBG.  6.30pm.  (More info)

Winter has certainly arrived with a vengeance, and one way to soothe away the cares of an icy week is perhaps to cosy up to a roaring fire, listening to good local music and savouring a glass of red wine.  Every Sunday evening, the Silver Tree Restaurant at Kirstenbosch hosts some of our country’s talented artists, and this week’s performers are all-girl quartet Sterling EQ.

Ticket price R100 per person. Prices include a Welcome drink and a starter. For bookings please call 021 762 9585, or email: info@kirstenboschrestaurant.com

Holistic Lifestyle Fair

Sunday, 4 July from 10am-4pm. River Club (off Liesbeek Parkway/M57, & Station Road)

The Holistic Lifestyle Fair’s usual home (Obs Community Centre) is being extensively renovated, so the next event will temporarily be housed at the River Club – also in Observatory.  All the usual wholesome exhibitors will be there:

• organic, whole & natural food & body products (vegans & vegetarians catered for), plants & herbs;
• eco, green, recycled & repurposed goods
• healing & therapeutic treatments;
• life readings & counselling
• world music & conscious living books
• crystals, pendulums & other esoteric items
• original artwork, handcrafted jewellery, vintage & limited edition clothing, bespoke decor & homeware, henna body art…

There is ample free parking within the River Club grounds, and a roaring fire in the indoor food area to keep away the winter chill.
Other events:

• Rondebosch Craft Market - Saturday 3 July 2010.

Contrary to popular belief, there’s more to the month of June than football and vuvuzelas… though one look at Twitter would soon put that theory to the test.  The vibe in town is quite something, I must say, judging from my brief foray into the soccer zone.  And, I was surprised to find it pretty easy to get in and out of town, dispelling the myth (at least for one day) of a heavily congested city centre.

Anyway, aside from soccer, there are one or two things on the Mother City Living radar, and here they are:

Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market

Sunday 20 June 2010.  9.30am-2.30pm. (3rd Sunday of every month) Kalk Bay Community Centre, Main Road, Kalk Bay.

If the weather is good, this is a fabulous way to spend a wintry Sunday, finding treats at the market, then wandering along Kalk Bay Main Road.  So what’s at this small monthly indoor market right next to the sea?  Food, fresh goods and preserves, natural and organic goods, ‘green’ and eco-friendly items plus handcrafted and ‘reincarnated’ (!) products, books, plants and more… (Be sure to get yourself some of Gerald’s splendiferous honey, if he’s there).  Enquiries: 021 788 8088 or 083 3329785 or soulgrow@mweb.co.za, or to find out more go to www.freshetcmarket.yolasite.com

Kirstenbosch Winter Concerts – JAMES STEWART

Sunday 20 June 2010.  The Silver Tree Restaurant, Kirstenbosch NBG

Winter has certainly arrived with a vengeance, and one way to soothe away the cares of an icy week is perhaps to cosy up to a roaring fire, listening to good local music and savouring a glass of red wine.  Every Sunday evening, the Silver Tree Restaurant at Kirstenbosch hosts some of our country’s talented artists, and this week’s performer is singer-songwriter James Stewart.

Ticket price R100 per person. Prices include a Welcome drink and a starter. For bookings please call 021 762 9585, or email: info@kirstenboschrestaurant.com

Earth Fair Market

South Palms, Main Road Tokai (same location as Builder’s Warehouse).  Various dates and times.

Okay, alright – so this is what I would consider somewhere between the soccer (which I don’t normally watch) and a market (which I go to very often indeed).  Somehow, the two have mixed in quite nicely – for the special occasion that is the World Cup.

Earth Fair Market will be hosting a Mini World Cup Soccer Fan Club. The market is a fantastic place to watch the soccer as there will be a big screen (3 metres), a choice of delicious meals (sushi, prego rolls, pies, shawarmas, speciality borewors rolls, biltong, nuts etc), and a spacious, smoke free environment. The bar will be serving its usual range of fabulous local on tap beers and organic wine.

We are expecting a great turnout and if you would like to support and watch the soccer in a festive, safe and smoke free environment where there is enough space to see the big screen, please do join us. Please note that we will not be taking bookings for the matches so get there early to get your spot. The doors to the market will be open one hour before the game times below.

I’ve seen the screen – and it’s really very large indeed, so no pushing and shoving for position here.  Plus, with a glass of Avondale bubbly in hand, and delicious eats at hand, soccer gets all the more entertaining, even for someone like me.  And, if you’re not a vuvu fan (let’s not get into that debate), you’ll be happy to know that this is a kid-friendly, vuvuzela-free zone.

Time flies, and suddenly it’s winter all over again. And whilst we do love our summer sunset concerts, there is something really cosy about the winter version as well.

Mellow evenings beside a blazing log fire, enjoying some of SA’s finest musical talent – we Cape Town folk definitely live the good life.

Here are the details, and lineup, for this year’s Kirstenbosch Winter Concert Series, taken from the SANBI website:

Event Name:	Kirstenbosch: The Silver Tree Restaurant Winter Concert Series	Links to Documents: The Silvertree Tree Restaurant Winter Concert
Date & Time:	09 May 2010 to 10 October 2010 19h00 – 20h30
Entrance Charge:	Ticket price R100 per person. October concerts @ R135 per person (Flat Stanley and Louise Carver) Prices include a Welcome drink and a starter.
How to book / obtain tickets:	For bookings please call 021 762 9585, or email: info@kirstenboschrestaurant.com
Venue / Location:	The Silver Tree Restaurant, Kirstenbosch NBG
Description:	Winter is here again and Silver Tree Restaurant’s popular Winter Concert Series is back with a line-up of some of the best musicians of Cape Town. Silver Tree Restaurant invites you to discover the heart of quality dining, personal service and warmth in the most beautiful garden in the world. Join us for a truly Capetonian experience.
Contact Details:	Abeeda Tel: 021 762 9585
Special notes:	Please arrive by 18h30. Please ask us about our bulk booking discount.

Upcoming concerts:

Bring on winter!

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Ahem, after far too long a hiatus, the MCL What’s On is back in action.  It’s a trifle damp out, but what better way to forget about the torrential rain that to head indoors and eat warm winter food?  Here are the weekend’s highlights, as I see them, taken from the MCL calendar.  Please feel free to add more in the comments below!

Good Food & Wine Show

13-16 May 2010.  CTICC.  Adult day tickets R80.

Food, wine, cooking demo’s, Gordon Ramsay – this show is a big ol’ feast.  It’s going to be huge, with 55,000 curious folk wandering through over the course of the weekend.  I’ll be stopping in at the Slow Food Market (run by the Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market), and seeking out natural and organic, as well as artisan produce.

Swap Don’t Shop Swishing Party

15 May 2010.  5.30pm-7.30pm.  Tamboerskloof.  More details.

The latest trendy eco-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe.  It’s a global trend: swishing.  Bring a few items of good quality clothing, and swap them for something else that takes your fancy.   For more info, contact Simone Borcherding: c. +27 (0)73 496 7811 |  e. simone.bor@gmail.com

Franschhoek Literary Festival

14-16 May 2010.  Franschhoek.  Festival blog.

For the bookworms – a weekend that’s a celebration of books and writers with the focus on promoting South African writing and reading.  “Novelists, poets, playwrights and journalists from across South Africa, and around the world, will gather in Franschhoek for a truly international festival. The FLF is a street-party for those who write, read, review, publish – or simply love books. Events are walkable; writers available; wine and food memorable.” (via)

Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market

Sunday 16 May 2010.  9am-2pm. Kalk Bay Community Centre. Main Road, Kalk Bay.

With any luck the rain might subside by Sunday, but even if it doesn’t the Kalk Bay Fresh Etc market is mostly indoors, and still a good bet.  Besides, there’s nothing quite like sitting at one of Kalk Bay’s awesome seaside restaurants (preferably those with some sort of fireplace!) and watching the stormy seas outside.

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It’s a jam-packed weekend ahead, to be sure… with wine harvest festivals, food markets, food bloggers’ conferences and then some.

Here, then, are the highlights for the (long) weekend ahead, taken from the Mother City Living Events Calendar (feel free to add more as comments, if I’ve missed some!)

An evening of poetry at Folio Books: Helen Moffett & Liesl Jobson

Friday 19 March 2010.  6pm.  Folio Books, 207 Main Road, Newlands. RSVP: 021 685 7190. (more info)

A gentle way to start the weekend – come and share a glass of wine while listening to poems that will ” delight, shock, anger, comfort and amuse”.

Wellington Wine Harvest Festival

Saturday 20 March – Monday 22 March 2010.  Various times, various venues in Wellington.  (details)

Enjoy a laidback autumn day in the open air or hop from cellar to cellar to meet the masters behind the award winning wines.  Although the fruit of the vine is the guest of honour, the festival remains a fabulous family affair with Wingerd Rock, game drives, wild boar on the spit, light classics under the stars, Springbok Burgers, potjie competitions, grape stomping, quadbike trails and a fresh goods market specialising in local produce.

Rondebosch Potters’ Market

Saturday 20 March.  8am-3pm.  Free entry.  Rondebosch Park.  (details)

Local and country potters from the Western Cape come together at this event to sell their quality wares. Browse the colourful stalls and find some grub at one of the refreshment stands to one side of the market.

Kirstenbosch Garden Fair

Saturday 20 March and Sunday 21 March 2010. 9am-4pm. Cost R5.  Stone Cottages (opposite the main entrance to Kirstenbosch) (details)

This annual fundraising event supports Kirstenbosch development projects and is a showcase for South Africa’s indigenous flora especially grown to offer gardeners a unique opportunity to acquire a wide range (some 500+ species) of trees, Proteas, shrubs, Buchus, herbaceous perennials, succulents, Ericas, Restios, bulbs, Cycads, etc. and other rare and unusual plants for collectors.

Feast of the Grape

Sunday 21 March 2010.  Various estates in Durbanville. (details and programme)

Harvesting the bounty of the vineyards is one of the most important moments in the making of good wine. The Durbanville Wine Valley celebrates ‘Feast of the Grape’, its annual Harvest Festival on Sunday, 21 March, signaling the end of the grape season and the beginning of autumn.

Kalk Bay Fresh Etc Market

Sunday 21 March 2010.  9am-2pm.  Kalk Bay Community Centre. (details)

After a bit of a break, this small market is back!  Discover a select group of vendors offering food, fresh goods and preserves; natural and organic goods; ‘green’ and eco-friendly items; handcrafted and repurposed products; books, plants and more at this intimate monthly indoor market right next to the sea.

Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts

Sunday 21 March 2010.  5.30pm.  (more info)

Not too many of these left… this time around it’s the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra filling the gardens with their classical sounds.

Kirstenbosch Chelsea Flower Show Fundraising Concert – The Parlotones

Monday 22 March 2010. 5pm. Kirstenbosch Gardens. 021 799 8783

The Old Mutual Chelsea Flower Show Fundraising Concert is a special event to raise funds for the Kirstenbosch-South Africa Chelsea Flower Show exhibit in London in May. This extended Sunset Concert will take place on Monday 22nd March 2010 (Public Holiday) and will open with The Black Hotels 17h00 – 17h30 followed by The Parlotones until 19h00.  Tickets cost R120 and are available from the Kirstenbosch Ticket Office and www.webtickets.co.za.

Get set for a scorcher, folks.  Here’s a look at what’s on this weekend, taken, as always, from the Mother City Living events calendar.

**UPDATED**

Vergelegen Starlight Classics

Friday 5 March (7.30pm) and Saturday 6 March (7pm) 2010.  Vergelegen Estate, Somerset West (more info)

Annual Starlight Classics Concert hosted by Rand Merchant Bank, on the historic Vergelegen Wine Farm in Somerset West.  Gates open at 16h00. Wine, cheese and coffee sales available on the night. Own picnic baskets welcome. Tickets: 5 March : R 125 6 March : R 135 (R115 pensioners/child)

Old Cape Wine Festival

Saturday 6 March 2010. 10am-5pm. Imhoff Farm. (venue info)

A new one-day festival celebrating the best of South Africa’s wines. The festival takes place tomorrow at Imhoff Farm near Kommetjie, and is set to feature over 20 wine estates, with unlimited tastings of 100+ wines. For your R40 entry fee, you’ll get a complimentary wine glass, food tastings, live music and there’s plenty of entertainment for kids. For more info call the Old Cape Wine Shop: 021 783 5054.  More info here.

Saltare Food & Wine Pairing

Saturday 6 March 2010.  10.30am.  Oude Libertas Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market.  (More info)

Seasonal dishes paired with biodynamically produced wines and bubblies.  Places are limited, but they’ve apparently had a late cancellation so you might just get a spot.

Spier Biodynamic Farm Visit

Saturday 6 March 2010.  10:15am.  Spier Estate. (details)

This is where I’ll be on Saturday morning – visiting Spier’s biodynamic farm and finding out how food can be raised ethically and with care.  There are a couple of free places, if anyone wants to come along.  And it’s an awesome outing to combine with a visit to a local market, like the fabulous Oude Libertas Stellenbosch Fresh Goods Market.

Cape Farmhouse Work For Love fundraiser

Saturday 6 March 2010. From 2pm. Cape Farmhouse Restaurant.  (more info)

Join Hot Water, Croc e Moses and Matthew Rice’s Open Sky for the Wiggles annual non profit fundraiser hosted at the Cape Farmhouse Restaurant. R60 adults, R50 students and under 12′s free. More information about Work for Love go to www.workforlove.co.za and to find out more about this event contact Rebecca on rebeccasturgeon@gmail.com.

Kirstenbosch Concerts: Goldfish

Sunday 7 March 2010.  5.30pm.  Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. (more info)

These concerts are so popular these days that it’s usually pretty hard to get a ticket this late in the day, and I’d imagine Goldfish are definitely one of the must-sees.  If the weather holds, it will definitely be a superb night for it.