In a twist that would make even the nimblest springbok jealous, Richmond in the heart of the Great Karoo is leaping into action with the quirkiest event this side of the veld: the Springbok Blowout Weekend: Pitch, Plaas, & Plate on July 4-5.
Forget your traffic jams and office cubicles, city dwellers! Trade them for wide-open Karoo skies and the kind of hospitality that makes your grandmother look standoffish. This is the weekend getaway your soul has been quietly begging for while you’ve been stuck in meetings about meetings.
‘Bok’ to basics
Local farmer Hendrik Ackerman will transport you back to a time when springbok herds numbered in the millions, transforming the landscape into a living, breathing sea of pronking prosperity. These “Trekbokke” weren’t just wandering aimlessly—they were the original Karoo road-trippers, except without the questionable road trip playlists.
“The relationship between farmers and springbok is the ultimate ‘complicated’ Facebook status,” jokes event organisers. “We’ve worked out a compromise: they get to roam free from predators, and we get to appreciate them in more ways than one – including on a plate.”
Meat your match
Speaking of plates—buckle up, foodies! The local culinary wizards are conjuring up springbok delights that’ll make your taste buds think they’ve died and gone to Karoo heaven. From carpaccio to skilpatjies (don’t ask, just eat), Richmond will be transformed into the springbok gastronomy capital of the world.
The air along Loop Street will be perfumed with the irresistible aroma of Tony Jackman’s braai skills as he expertly grills ribbetjies for everyone to sample during the Charcuterie demonstration. Other Karoo cuisine queens who will also be involved in the sumptuous offerings of the weekend are the likes of Martisan Theron, Annatjie Reynolds, Marie Visser, Magriet Burger, Janine Viljoen, Marietjie Sieberhage, Susan Kock and Susan Theron.
Veld trips & vine times
Fancy a jaunt into the wilderness? Enjoy a guided tour across the vast expanses the Karoo to witness springbok in their natural habitat. Pro tip: pack warm clothes and “a flagon of good brandewyn or dessert wine” for the authentic experience.
Wine enthusiasts won’t be left high and dry. Doolhof Wines takes center stage on Friday, while Saturday belongs to Schalk Burger’s Welbedacht Wines. Yes, THAT Schalk Burger—the rugby legend himself will be sharing tales from the glory days alongside fellow Springbok great Hannes Marais.
Art & soul
For the culturally inclined, the Karoozing Gallery will unveil Keith Merry’s exhibition, capturing Africa’s spirit on canvas. Perfect for contemplative sipping while pretending to understand brushstroke techniques.
Here’s the kicker – most activities are free, excluding the obvious necessity of food and drink. Accommodations in the village’s charming B&Bs are available but booking early is essential.
The farm roads might make Johannesburg potholes look like minor skin imperfections, so transport arrangements will be made for those without safari-worthy vehicles.
Whether you come for the food, the rugby legends and their wine, the art, or simply to escape your boss for a weekend, the Springbok Blowout promises to be the quirkiest, most delightful Karoo adventure of 2025.
Bookings are essential for the Springbok Blowout Dinner on 4 and 5 July, so please contact Gary: 076 085 4511 or Peter: 082 941 1572. They can also guide you with any other information or acommodation recommendations for the weekend.
