The Hermanus Whale Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary

It’s nearly whale season in Cape Town again; the time when southern right whales make their annual pilgrimage to the southern most tip of the Western Cape. The whales can be seen in False Bay and round to Hermanus. Of the two, Hermanus offers the more spectacular viewing opportunities, and even has a whale festival in honour of the magnificent creatures.

This year the Two Oceans Hermanus Whale Festival takes place from 30 September to 4 October. It will be the festival’s 20th anniversary.

Over the years, the festival has evolved to include a number of eco-related and other activities, including talks, sports events and live music performances. Last year the festival clocked around 130,000 visitors, this year they’re hoping to do even better. To aid their efforts, organisers have included additional venues to host all the different activities that will be taking place.
For instance, the Hemel en Aarde Forest Theatre will host singer Chris Chameleon on the 1st of October. The show costs R150 per person and gates will be open from 17:00 to 18:30. Only picnic seating is available. On the 2nd of October, the theatre will host Elvis Blue. Tickets cost R120 per person and the same rules apply. Sports events include the Total Half Marathon, Rola Mountain Bike Challenges, Cliff Path Night run and Old Harbour Whale Plunge.

Eco-talks will be held from 30 September to 4 October; topics include: • Whales of Baja, Mexico • Great White Shark Research • Plastic at sea? – A look at the issue in SA • Shark tagging – how and why • Children’s reading and drawing sessions
There is a Rhino Project, which aims to create awareness regarding rhinos’ delicate conservation status. Food and crafts will be available at Market Square. For more information visit the Two Oceans Hermanus Whale Festival website.Visit http://www.whalefestival.co.za for more information.