The tranquil setting for the festival.
These are divided into six “continents” – and the unique feature is trees and shrubs are grouped according to continents of origin. And it is spring now, so blossoms abound.
This is the setting for the inaugural Paarl One World Festival of Healing, a new annual event which, this year, will run on Saturday September 24 and Sunday September 25.
Each of the six “continents” represented in the Arboretum will feature the food and music of that continent. So in Africa you’ll find braais, pap and wors, and samoosas.
In Asia think curries and chop suey. Burgers and hot dogs will be available in America, and stews and Italian coffee in Europe.
The music will be an eclectic mix from all over the world, from boere music and goema, to marimba, reggae and salsa to string quartets, gospel and blues. The main stage will feature The Frank Petersen School Band, Tony Cedras and Errol Dyers, Alistair Izobell and Karin Kortje and Sons of Selassie on Saturday, and VJR, Zami Mdingi and Kurt Darren on Sunday.
The children’s programme in-cludes pony rides, a petting zoo, a scavenger hunt, painting of peace flags, building a labyrinth and open mic sessions.
The healing aspect will encompass everything from yoga and tai chi to Zumba – so take your yoga mats.
Doors open at 8.30am, the music starts at 9am, and the festival closes at 6pm.
Tickets are available from Computicket: weekend passes cost R100 for adults, R50 for those between 12 and 18, and children under 12 are free.
For more information, contact Marilyn Thompson at 082 571 3261 or marilynthompson@telkomsa.net
