Your Garden Route Event Guide - 28 May
This week we bring you the world-renowned George Mountain Ultra Trail (MUT) by UTMB, a legendary live performance by Vusi Mahlasela in Knysna, and the grand finale of the Engel & Völkers Chilli Festival in Plettenberg Bay. Read on for our curated compilation of the region's best music, community action, and outdoor recreation.
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Mossel Bay
TiNO Live by Reedvalley
Local singer-songwriter TiNO takes to the stage for a spectacular live performance of authentic South African music. Guests can look forward to a vibrant and engaging musical journey set within a historic barn venue, where superb local wines and delicious food platters are served to complete a cozy winter evening of arts and entertainment.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 20:00 (Doors open at 18:00)
- Venue: ReedValley Wine Estate, Mossel Bay
Klipkerk Basaar Road Race
Lacing up for a healthy cause, this historic community road race features both a competitive 10km route and a family-friendly 5km fun run or walk through the scenic streets of town. Coinciding with the popular local church bazaar, participants and supporters can enjoy traditional fresh pancakes, delicious regional foods, and family entertainment directly after crossing the finish line.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 07:00 (10km start), 07:10 (5km start)
- Venue: N.G. Moedergemeente, Corner of Church Street and George Road, Mossel Bay
Point Trail Morning Clean-Up and Bird Walk
Give back to the local coastline during a rewarding early morning volunteer outing along the dramatic sea cliffs. Led by community conservationists, participants will identify rare endemic seabirds while gathering plastic and shoreline litter to keep our rocky pools pristine.
- Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
- Time: 07:30 - 10:00
- Venue: Point Trail Parking Area, Mossel Bay
George
George MUT by UTMB
The premier mountain ultra-trail running showpiece of South Africa returns to the rugged Outeniqua Mountains, attracting elite and passionate trail runners from across the globe. Part of the international UTMB World Series, this tough multi-distance challenge showcases pristine indigenous forests, soaring peaks, and steep coastal paths, making it a pinnacle of outdoor recreation and sports.
- Date: Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31, 2026
- Time: Start times vary by distance (ongoing throughout the weekend)
- Venue: Outeniqua Park Stadium, George
Ryno Velvet Live at Bush Lapa
Popular South African rock artist Ryno Velvet brings his signature acoustic-driven alternative melodies and poetic storytelling to Herold's Bay. Known as a premier family-friendly concert venue on the Garden Route, the open-air setting offers an exceptional atmosphere paired with traditional potjiekos and panoramic coastal views.
- Date: Friday, May 29, 2026
- Time: 18:00
- Venue: Die Bush Lapa at Herold's Bay Resort, George
We Balance C2C Mini MTB XCO
A thrilling youth mountain bike cross-country competition designed to test the skills and agility of young riders. Staged at Blanco's popular lifestyle hub, this high-energy afternoon features multiple age-category races, skills demonstrations, and an energetic spectator area with food trucks and local craft stands.
- Date: Friday, May 29, 2026
- Time: 16:00 - 18:00
- Venue: The Cornerstone Lifestyle Centre, Blanco, George
Tapas Theatre: American Realism
Immerse yourself in a gripping evening of classical drama featuring realistic, heart-wrenching portrayals from celebrated Pulitzer-winning American scripts. Staged at our historic local theater, this unique performing arts event perfectly pairs pure drama with a curated selection of culinary tapas to enjoy between acts.
- Date: Friday, June 5 to Sunday, June 7, 2026
- Time: 19:00 (Sunday matinee at 14:30)
- Venue: The George Arts Theatre, George
Wilderness
Bassline Society Present: Beach House
Unwind at a premium coastal lifestyle and electronic music gathering that brings together quality DJ performances and a relaxed social atmosphere. Perfectly positioned overlooking the ocean, this event celebrates local music, contemporary youth culture, and community connection, complete with curated hospitality in a beautiful seaside setting.
- Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
- Time: 12:00 - 22:00
- Venue: Wilderness Beach House Backpackers Lodge, Wilderness
Songs of U2 Live in Wilderness
Experience an intimate, acoustic-driven performance that explores the profound lyrics and rich melodies of the iconic Irish rock band U2. Inspired by their reflective album "Songs of Surrender," this show avoids typical tribute clichés, offering instead an engaging and nostalgic journey through the anthems that have shaped musical history.
- Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
- Time: 20:00 - 21:30
- Venue: The Fairy Knowe Hotel, Wilderness
Sedgefield
Pink Party by The 9pm Club
A ladies-only throwback dance experience designed exclusively for women who want a high-energy night out in a safe and vibrant social atmosphere. Featuring a non-stop dance floor spinning the ultimate hits of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, this special themed evening allows guests to unwind, dance, and connect without the late-night club scene.
- Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
- Time: 18:00 (Dance floor concludes at 21:00)
- Venue: Ilmazzo, Sedgefield
Scarab Paper Craft and Eco Workshop
Unleash your creativity at a tactile, eco-friendly crafting session where participants learn the historic art of paper manufacturing. Using elephant dung and recycled plant fibers, this organic process teaches sustainable design while allowing guests to manufacture and take home their own custom textured stationery.
- Date: Saturday, May 30 and Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 10:00 - 12:30
- Venue: Scarab Craft Market, Sedgefield
Knysna
Vusi Mahlasela Live in Knysna
A rare and extraordinary opportunity to witness a legendary South African singer-songwriter, affectionately known as "The Voice," perform live in an intimate setting. Celebrating South Africa's cultural heritage, his powerful voice and optimistic, poetic lyrics deliver messages of hope and healing that connect the past with a promising future.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 19:00 (Gates open at 18:00)
- Venue: Knysna Gin Distillery, Knysna
Songs of U2 Live in Knysna
Join local musicians at a high-end country club setting for a deep and soulful exploration of the lyrics and melodies of U2. This thoughtful performance highlights the thematic inspiration and emotional depth of the band's four-decade career, providing music enthusiasts with a sophisticated and nostalgic evening of storytelling.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 20:00 - 21:30
- Venue: Simola Hotel, Country Club & Spa, Knysna
Andre the Hilarious Hypnotist Live
Prepare for an evening of mind-bending comedy and side-splitting laughter as South Africa's master of suggestion takes the stage. Volunteers from the audience are guided through hilarious and whimsical actions, delivering a lighthearted and interactive performance designed for a night of sheer amusement.
- Date: Friday, May 29, 2026
- Time: 19:30 (Doors open at 18:00)
- Venue: Knysna Gin Distillery, Knysna
Bonsai Kitten Live in Concert
Catch a high-energy live performance by the internationally acclaimed German alternative rock and punk-rockabilly band Bonsai Kitten. Bringing their unique sound and driving melodies to the Garden Route, this performance guarantees an electric, unforgettable night of live musical entertainment.
- Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
- Time: 20:00 (Doors open at 18:00)
- Venue: Knysna Gin Distillery, Knysna
Plettenberg Bay
Plett Games
Gather your friends and family for a high-energy community sports and recreation festival packed with light-hearted physical and creative challenges. Staged across a dedicated grass arena, teams of all ages compete in entertaining activities like gumboot throwing, slow cycling, golf chipping, and puzzle races, all supported by live music from the Bitou River Band, food stands, and a refreshing local craft beer garden.
- Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
- Time: 10:00 - 17:00
- Venue: Greenwood Bay College, Plettenberg Bay
Engel & Völkers Chilli Festival Grand Finale
Celebrate the culmination of a month-long culinary journey showcasing local restaurants and their creative, fiery chilli-infused dishes. Hosted by celebrity chef Pete Goffe-Wood, the final celebration features the highly anticipated Chilli Eating Competition, live music, the announcement of the local culinary winners, and community prize-givings.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: Restaurant opening hours (Finale starts in the evening)
- Venue: Barrington's, Plettenberg Bay
Plett ProDive Reef Cleanup
Join dedicated local divers, marine conservationists, and beach lovers for an impactful community action morning aimed at protecting the bay's vibrant marine life. This citizen science initiative focuses on removing underwater debris and shoreline waste from local reefs and beaches, followed by an educational sorting session to document local pollution trends.
- Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026
- Time: 08:30 - 11:30
- Venue: Central Beach and ProDive Center, Plettenberg Bay
Nature's Valley
Nature's Valley Trust Citizen Science and Restoration Walk
Engage in vital environmental action and educational conservation alongside the dedicated team of the Nature's Valley Trust. This community-oriented outdoor walk provides participants with hands-on opportunities to monitor local birdlife, study the unique fynbos flora, and assist in mapping the estuary's post-flood recovery.
- Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
- Time: 09:00 - 11:30
- Venue: Nature's Valley Trust Headquarters, Nature's Valley
Tsitsikamma Coastal Trail Maintenance Day
Team up with environmental rangers to clear overgrown bush, fix erosion steps, and clear vital water runways along the spectacular coastline. This volunteering day is perfect for lovers of outdoor recreation who want to preserve delicate local pathways and ensure trail accessibility.
- Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
- Time: 08:00 - 13:00
- Venue: Nature's Valley Estuary Parking, Nature's Valley
Save the Date
Windhoek Home of Golf Africa Cup - Simola
A prestigious competitive betterball series showcasing the best golf courses the coast has to offer. — June 12, 2026
Calitzdorp Expressed
A festive weekend of local wines, arts, and Klein Karoo culture with the theme Feathers and Wine. — June 12 to June 14, 2026
Vic Bay Surf Pro
A top-tier professional surfing competition drawing South Africa's best boardriders to the legendary right-hand point break. — June 19 to June 21, 2026
Plett Ocean Festival
A landmark winter festival celebrating marine science, coastal conservation, ocean safaris, and beach sports under the theme Observe, Conserve, Preserve. — July 3 to July 12, 2026
Knysna Oyster Festival
The iconic ten-day lifestyle and sport festival featuring extreme sporting events, live music, and exceptional culinary experiences. — July 3 to July 12, 2026
Knysna Forest Marathon
One of South Africa's most breathtaking distance running races, taking runners through deep, pristine forest canopies. — July 4, 2026
Glacier Storms River Traverse
A thrilling three-day mountain bike stage race winding through the spectacular coastline, mountains, and plantations of Tsitsikamma. — July 31 to August 2, 2026
Klein Karoo Klassique
A boutique winter celebration in the heart of Oudtshoorn, showcasing classical music, fine art, and exquisite local food and wine. — August 7 to August 9, 2026
Tsitsikamma Ultra
A challenging 50km point-to-point wilderness trail race tracing ancient paths from Storms River through dense indigenous forests. — August 29, 2026
Plett ARTS Festival
A vibrant seaside festival highlighting local painters, sculptors, and live street performers celebrating regional art. — September 24 to September 27, 2026
Lions Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge
A legendary 100km off-road cycle challenge crossing the majestic Prince Alfred's Pass from Uniondale down to Knysna. — September 27, 2026
Meiringspoort Half Marathon
A highly prestigious running event through the towering sandstone cliffs and pristine river gorges of Meiringspoort. — October 10, 2026
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