Stellenbosch’s first big wine bash of the year, the much-loved Stellenbosch Harvest Parade, will bring vibes, colour and lots of fun to the town on Saturday 31 January.
And all the stops are being pulled out for on this annual celebration, which marks the 55th anniversary of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes. The Harvest Parade will reflect the organisation’s journey to excellence, once again welcoming the year’s bounty from the vineyards.
As is customary, it will feature a colourful parade, floats, gaudy dress-up and plenty of lively music by local brass musicians in a procession through the streets of the historic town.
It is part of an ancient tradition across the globe, where citizens of farming towns display their gratitude in anticipation of a fruitful season. In South Africa winemaking has a richer context, the only one in the world with a record, thanks to a diary entry by its founders, of the exact date 2 February 1659.
In Stellenbosch the parade is a show of thanks to the farmers and workers, most of them among parade’s participants.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Stellenbosch Harvest Parade back to our streets,” said Stellenbosch Wine Routes manager Elmarie Rabe. “The culture of wine is synonymous with Stellenbosch; it’s part of our identity, our heritage, and the rhythm of our community.
“This parade celebrates the people behind the vineyards and cellars, whose work sustains thousands of jobs and drives growth across the region. It’s a joyful reminder of how deeply wine is woven into the life and prosperity of Stellenbosch.”
The parade, supported by Stellenbosch Municipality, can be observed free of charge as it makes its way through town. “The annual Harvest Parade is always a highlight on our town’s calendar,” said Mayor Jeremy Fasser. “It’s a special moment to give thanks for the new harvest and to celebrate the incredible work of our winemakers, farmers and farm workers.
“Their contribution to our local economy is immense, supporting jobs, families and the character of our community. With its colour, music and vibrant parade, the day is a true celebration of togetherness, and I encourage everyone to come along and be part of it.”
The parade starts at the Toy and Miniature Museum in Market Street at 09:00, making its way along Alexander, Bird, Church and Plein streets to arrive at the town hall at 09:30 for the official blessing of the harvest. Once completed the procession will return along its route to the starting point.
• For more info, email info@wineroute.co.za or call 021 886 4310.
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