Cherry Festival Guide
Ficksburg Cherry Festival: A Sweet Slice of South Africa! Guide
Get ready for a burst of flavor and fun at the annual Ficksburg Cherry Festival, a celebration of all things cherry! Held in the charming town of Ficksburg, nestled in the Eastern Free State of South Africa, this festival is a vibrant showcase of the region's agricultural prowess and a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Imagine strolling through stalls overflowing with plump, juicy cherries, the air filled with the sweet aroma of cherry pies and jams. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way! The Cherry Festival has a rich history, dating back to the late 1960s when local farmers decided to celebrate their successful cherry harvests. Over the years, it has grown into a major event, attracting thousands of visitors from across South Africa and beyond. The festival not only celebrates the cherry harvest but also showcases the local culture and heritage of the Eastern Free State. Expect to see traditional music and dance performances, arts and crafts displays, and a general atmosphere of festive cheer. Beyond the cherries themselves, the festival offers a wide range of activities. You can indulge in cherry-themed treats, from cherry liqueur and cherry ice cream to cherry pancakes and cherry burgers (yes, really!). There are cherry pip spitting competitions, cherry packing demonstrations, and even a cherry queen pageant. For the adventurous, consider a cherry farm tour to learn about the cultivation process firsthand. And don't forget to sample the local cuisine! While not exclusively cherry-based, the region offers hearty South African fare like braaivleis (barbecue), biltong (dried cured meat), and potjiekos (a traditional stew cooked in a three-legged pot).
Transportation
Getting to Ficksburg for the Cherry Festival is best done by car. From Johannesburg, take the N3 south towards Harrismith, then the N5 towards Bethlehem, and finally the R26 to Ficksburg. From Bloemfontein, take the N8 east to Thaba Nchu, then the R26 north to Ficksburg. Parking is usually available near the festival grounds, but it can get crowded, so arrive early! While there isn't a direct public bus route to Ficksburg specifically for the festival, Intercape and Greyhound buses service nearby towns like Bethlehem, from where you could arrange local transport.