“Kirkwood is the only place in the world where you will be able to buy a herd of disease-free buffalo, a prize kudu breeding bull, an aircraft and a tractor all on the same day – and then celebrate with the world’s top selling rock band in the evening,” says Absa Kirkwood Wildsfees director Jenni Honsbein.
Crews have been hard at work since Saturday putting up tents and marquees in preparation for the more than 38 000 people expected to shop at the 300 specially chosen stalls, experience a Walk on the Wildside, pat prize boerboels and cats, sip vintage wines and enjoy the tastes of gourmet foods while waiting for the main stage to come alive with many of South Africa’s top acts.
Visitors will be able to inspect a Remos light aircraft, which be on display in South Africa for the first time.
A highlight of this year’s entertainment programme will be the first appearance on a big stage in the Eastern Cape of the Parlotones on 2 July after their world tour.
Other acts during the festival, which takes place from Friday, July 1 to Sunday July 3, include Kurt Darren, Elvis Blue, The Flooze, Die Heuwels Fantasties, Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, and Emo Adams.
Celebrities, Jak de Priester and Lizz Meiring together with celebrity chef, Francois Ferreira, will share their recipes at the exclusive Absa Op Die Rooi Bank show, while venison expert Ezelle Marais reveals the art of game dishes with her Liplekker cooking demonstrations.
The South African cooking tradition of potjie and braai will be honoured at the Marina Sea salt Roer-my-nie potjiekos and braai challenge on the Sunday.
Children will be “overwhelmed” with the choice of entertainment, from games, rides, clowns and activities in the Kidz Zone to a live show by Lollos on Friday and Saturday, says Honsbein.
New to this year is the Growing Green expo, dedicated to ethical and sustainable agricultural and gardening methods.
Entry fees for the festival on Friday and Sunday are R70 for adults and R30 for children; and R100 for adults and R50 for children on Saturday.
Fair warning – if you intend to stay overnight in Kirkwood at the Wildsfees you had better pick and choose from the Available Accommodation in Addo as the Kirkwood accommodation is full.

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