Durbanville was one of the earliest farming communities to be established in the Western Cape. Long before the Dutch arrived in Table Bay, the Khoi people, who were nomadic hunter herders, roamed our hills with their sheep and cattle. During Jan van Riebeeck’s time, the settlers attempted to barter with these locals who proved to be somewhat unreliable partners. This motivated the DEIC to establish a cattle post in the “Visserhok” area as early as 1683. By the end of the 17th century, migrant farmers had already settled in the Tygerberg region and from 1690 the community was made official when Governor Simon van der Stel granted pieces of land to the first free burghers.
Initially the primary produce was fresh meat for the passing ships. This was soon augmented to include wheat and vegetables and by the early 1700’s, the valley’s first vineyards were planted and farmers were busy making wine.

Before the middle of the 18th century, the Tygerberg-Koeberg had already, according to numerous records, become the granary of the Western Cape. Today the Durbanville farm activities still include some of the leading grain, cattle, sheep, dairy and wine farms in the country.

This year, at the inaugural Durbanville Wine Valley Harvest Festival, we are not only showcasing our fabulous Wine Valley restaurants and wines (considered some of the best in South Africa) but you will also be able to get hand’s-on and dirty with real-life-farming activities like grape-stomping, milking cows and even a tractor exhibition. Expect non-stop kiddies entertainment throughout the weekend, face painting, jumping castle, “boere-sport” for young and old and lots of live entertainment.

Sample some of the locally made produce or grab a bite to eat from one of our renowned farm eateries who will all be present on the day. For the first time, all 11 wine farms from the Durbanville wine valley will have their wines available for tasting in one place and wine can be purchased on the day.

The festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday 2nd & 3rd March at the Durbanville Racecourse, 12pm – 5pm.
This is a festival that is not to be missed, a first of its kind and true exhibition of the fellowship of our valley.

Tickets are available from www.webtickets.co.za or at the door, tickets are R100 per person and R50 for children under 18, this includes entry for the day, a branded wine glass as well as tasting coupons. Additional coupons can be purchased throughout the day.