Spier Events

Spier Werf Market:

Up until a few weeks ago I wasn't aware that there was even a thing as the Spier Secret Festival.  

The event is being held from 29 to 31 October at the recently restored Spier Werf at the Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.  The Spier website states that this event is for anyone who enjoys good wine and food.  

It seems that this year is going to be bigger and better, with a bakery and cafe, a farmer's market and a boutique wine cellar.  

The festival features a conference, pop-up dinner series and food bazaar.  Tickets need to be pre-booked for the conference and dinner series but the food bazaar is more on line with a food and wine market. 

The market is family-friendly with a petting zoo to entertain the little ones, while adults can enjoy free-range, organic goods and produce.

Festival of White Lights:

Spier starts off the festive season each year by hosting the Festival of White Lights, this is a sparkling display of lights and a collection of artistic performances. 

The evening starts off with award-winning Spier wines and a picnic on the lawns, while listening to gospel and Christmas songs. 

You then go on a trip across the estate, led by an “Angel of Light” and a penny-whistler – I’m not sure what a penny-whistler is but I’m sure I’ll find out once I attend the event J

The trip across the farm reveals light installations, including a dance piece choreographed by Jay Pather, a burning sculpture and a display by fire-dancers. 

Along the way, participants are given a balloon with a light inside and a piece of paper tied to it.  Participants are encouraged to write a message of goodwill and all the balloons are released together and makes you think of a new year’s movie sceen .

Tickets sell out quickly as I found out last year, so book on webtickets as soon as possible.