WELCOME TO THE WATERBLOMMETJIE FESTIVAL
CELEBRATING AN INDIGENOUS DELICACY
WATERBLOMMETJIE
/ˈvɑ ː təˌ blɒməki/
noun
Aka Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae).
The waterblommetjie is one of South Africa's most famous edible plants. It has a long history of use by the indigenous Khoikhoi, both medicinally and as a nutritious food.
The name means "little water flower" and though it's an edible flower, it's not the sort that is used to garnish a salad.
A celebration of Waterblommetjies
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday, 6 September. Windmeul Kelder, Rhebokskloof Estate and Domaine Brahms outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family from 08:00. Entry to the event is free.
The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of the Western Cape.
It is only harvested for a short period each year, which makes it a sought-after ingredient. Used in heritage foods such as the traditional waterblommetjiebredie (stew), the KhoiKhoi used it for medicinal purposes and is packed with vitamins.
Entry fee: Free of charge
Bring the whole family and enjoy the Waterblommetjiefees without spending a cent at the gate! Entry is completely free, so come soak up the flavours, music and festivities with no cost to your pocket.
Windmeul Kelder
Waterblommetjies & wine pairing, farmers' market,
potjiekos compitition and live music
Windmeul will serve the traditional stew, and fresh waterblommetjies will be available from the fresh produce vendor at the famous farmers’ market. Festival goers can also watch the experts in action during the highly competitive potjiekos competition. The Plaaskombuis will be serving breakfast and fabulous homemade stews and dishes.
The festival co-incides with the monthly Windmeul farmers’ market, where visitors can stock up on fresh local produce such as locally grown waterblommetjies. A special Windmeul waterblommetjies and wine pairing session will be presented, featuring the winning recipe from last year's potjiekos competition. A dedicated play area with a jungle gym is available for younger visitors.
Rhebokskloof
Estate
Award-winning wines, live entertainment and activities for children
At Rhebokskloof Estate, visitors can indulge in waterblommetjie-inspired tapas from their
new El Picoteo restaurant paired with estate wines. Young and old can tackle the tracks on their mountainbikes for an outdoor adventure. With expansive lawns and plenty of space
for kids to play, this is definitely a destination for the whole family.
A family market, big screen rugby, a jumping castle and food stalls are part of the fun. Don't miss the special wine pairing of five Rhebokskloof wines with waterblommetjie snacks. Live music and DJ.
Domaine
Brahms
Family-friendly farm atmosphere and lots of activities
Domaine Brahms promises to be non-stop fun for young and old. Browse through the amazing Toeka store and coffee shop, while the kids enjoy the jumping pillow, waterslide, face painting and the kids’ play area.
Take a tractor ride or go for a leisurely 1km Walk the Vine through the vineyards. Live music will provide great vibes throughout the day.
Outdoor Experiences
Trail run and mountain bike through the vineyards
Outdoor enthusiasts can also get in some action before sampling the great food and wines at the Waterblommetjie Festival. The Run the Vines trail run will take place at Windmeul Kelder. Distances include a 3km for juniors, 5km, 10km and 17km with starting times between 08h00 and 08h45. Entry fees range, depending on the distances. All finishers receive medals. Register here.
Keen mountain bikers can head to Rhebokskloof Estate for an MTB outride. Watch this space for more information about this event.
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