Garden Town Stellenbosch Blooms Back in 2023

Garden Town Stellenbosch

Under the theme "Common Ground," Garden Town Stellenbosch aims to celebrate the universal love for gardening and foster a stronger, connected community. This festival is about shared passion for gardening and a deep love for nature.

"Supporting communities and nurturing relationships around our shared love for gardening and our beautiful environment promotes not only vibrant landscapes but also forges connections that can grow into lifelong bonds," says Gesie van Deventer, the Mayor of Stellenbosch. "It reminds us that our roots are intertwined with those around us, and just as a tiny seed grows into a blooming plant, cultivating determination and nurturing dreams can lead to success in life, where every contribution creates a flourishing environment for all."

Jeanneret Momberg, CEO of Visit Stellenbosch, expresses her excitement for the upcoming event: "Garden Town Stellenbosch is more than just a festival; it embodies our collective love for gardening and our commitment to building strong, interconnected communities. With this year's theme, 'Common Ground,' we aim to highlight the universal appeal of gardening while emphasizing the importance of shared spaces that bring people together."

Attendees can experience the magic of Garden Town Stellenbosch, showcasing vibrant shades of Viva Magenta, the Pantone Color of the Year 2023. Immerse yourself in a world painted in the captivating shades of this vibrant color as the town transforms into a lively canvas of creativity and inspiration – wear your best magenta attire and join the flower parade on October 31.

Events Around the Garden Town Festival

The focal point of the event, the Stellenbosch Town Hall, will host an "Inner Oasis" – a botanically inspired art exhibition curated by the Voice Collective, featuring a bespoke selection of art and products reflecting the voice of hope. The PJ Olivier Art Centre will exhibit student artwork on the theme of "Blooming." Complementing the floral splendour, the Western Cape Association of Flower Arrangers will present the Viva Magenta Floral Art Show from November 1 to 5. The Town Hall will also host the STS Floral Night Run on November 1 and the Rosé Soiree on November 4.

What sets Garden Town Stellenbosch apart is its decentralized approach, incorporating workshops, talks, and tours at various locations. The event offers exclusive opportunities to explore private and home gardens on October 27 and 28, and again on November 3 and 4. This unique experience allows visitors to encounter a diverse range of gardens, from extensive farmland to compact green living projects. Additionally, 11 open or public gardens will be showcased during the celebrations.

The "Weekend Passport" priced at R200 grants unrestricted access to the featured gardens on the respective weekends.

Participation in Garden Town Stellenbosch isn’t limited to gardening enthusiasts. The festival invites local restaurants to offer garden- and plant-inspired dishes, complemented by creative window displays and outdoor decorations. Moreover, visitors can enjoy rosé-themed promotions and activities along with accommodation offers. It’s easy to stay overnight and fully embrace this annual celebration of gardens and nature.

The program of workshops, talks, and tours promises to be a highlight. Guests can delve into a variety of experiences, including the Babylonstoren Specials Collection Tour by Ernst van Jaarsveld, a drawing workshop by Diane Harper using natural dyes hosted by Dylan Lewis, Gelli Plate Monoprinting with Hermien van der Merwe, Spiers Fabulous Fungi & Food Experience, Grow your Own Microgreens Workshop at Lanzerac, and more.

Nature lovers can enjoy the Hazendal Garden Walks, guided tours through the Botsanical Garden of Stellenbosch University, nature and wine walks with plant expert Cobus Smit, or a Sunset Walk at Glenelly followed by dinner at the Vine Bistro. The Garden Town Wrap-Up MTB ride for Renosterveld, taking place at the Jordan Wine Estate, is a fitting conclusion.

You can find the comprehensive program for Garden Town Stellenbosch here.