Program of Events

Watch age-old breadmaking in action — rustic, hands-on, and straight from the fire!

Kick off the festivities at our three market hubs — Village Green, Settler's Square opposite the Pig & Whistle, and Pikes Post at the Bathurst Agricultural Museum — bursting with local food, crafts, and charm.

Explore one of South Africa’s largest collections of vintage farming equipment, tractors, and tools. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s agricultural past.

Kids will have a blast printing and painting a T-shirt. Plus, grab a complimentary milkshake. For bookings, click here. 

Get up close with gentle giants at The Farm Bathurst! Enjoy the unforgettable experience of hand-feeding giraffes while surrounded by the reserve’s peaceful bushveld setting — a magical activity for both kids and adults. For more info contact: 0824943694

Hosted by Bathurst's own talented sculptor André Roodt, this exhibition brings together some of the finest artists from the area. Nine artists, each with their unique style and mediums, it's an exhibition not to be missed.  

Place your bets and watch the sky as Bathurst’s feathered athletes race home from the hill. Buy tickets now: info@pigandwhistle.co.za | 046 625 0673

Think you can handle five milkshakes in 25 minutes? Choose four from the menu and get one mystery shake. Finish them all in time and your entry is free — beat the record and your name goes on the Winners Wall! Fun, challenging, and not for the faint of heart.  *T&Cs apply.

Falcons’ Burger Challenge! Do you have what it takes to join the Wall of Flame? Tackle two cheeseburgers, loaded fries, onion rings, and two beers in just 20 minutes! Entry is R200 — free if you finish on time.

Come and view one of our historic sites in Bathurst. Another unique piece of history in the heart of Bathurst. Donations welcome. 

Fun for kids and the young at heart! Hop on for a scenic tractor ride through the village.

See how maize was milled the old-fashioned way — a hands-on look at our agricultural roots.

Step into the magical Dragon Realm at 341 Gilander Street, where Patrick Smith’s striking concrete fantasy sculptures are set within a tranquil treed garden. With its ethereal atmosphere and enchanting labyrinth, this unique spot transports visitors to a world of imagination and wonder.

Take a morning stroll through Bathurst’s upper village on this guided heritage walk. Discover historic homes, landmarks, and stories that shaped the heart of this charming settler town. No booking required. R20 per person. For enquiries, contact 083 413 5050.

Step inside this historic working water mill — open for tours at R40 per person. For more information contact 0746957296

Immerse yourself in a mid-morning food and wine experience where flavour and creativity collide. Enjoy exquisite canapés by Chef Ray Hanekom-Barnard paired with the elegant wines of D’Aria, all set within the artistic charm of The Corner Gallery. Bookings essential - 083 645 1280

Watch the heat rise as local teams go head-to-head in a thrilling culinary showdown at the iconic Pig and Whistle. Each team receives a box of surprise ingredients and must whip up a delicious dish on the spot. Join the crowd to sample the final creations and cast your vote for the tastiest plate. For tasting tickets, contact 046 625 0673 

Test your strength in this classic brawn challenge with a Bathurst twist.

Enjoy a relaxed day at The Bathurst Arms with board games, delicious pizza specials, and great vibes. From 11 am, DJ Trevor takes over, spinning tunes to keep the festive energy going well into the evening.

Soak up the vibe with live performances in our vibey SAB Beer Garden — the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the music or grab a craft beer.

How far can a pineapple fly? Grab a pineapple and get tossing — quirky, fun, and uniquely Bathurst!

Admire a colourful parade of vintage cars, tractors, and horses making their way through town. It's a lively celebration of Bathurst’s rural heritage and mechanical history — perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Now it’s your turn to join the fun! After watching the teams battle it out, spectators can buy tickets, sample the dishes, and cast their votes. From bold flavours to creative twists — who will take the crown? You decide!

Come and view one of our historic sites in Bathurst. Another unique piece of history in the heart of Bathurst. Donations welcome. 

Get creative at this hands-on workshop, where you'll design and print your own unique t-shirts. Hosted by The Corner Gallery, this is your chance to learn a new skill and take home a one-of-a-kind wearable artwork. 

Not your average race —

WHO’S THE FASTEST DRAW IN THE WEST?

It’s a test of speed ‘n aim - 30 targets, 60 paintballs, and a whole lotta braggin’ rights on the line.

Is your aim true, or are you just stirrin’ up dust?

Sign-up: 1 pm |  Entry: R50

Prizes for the sharpest shooters

Yes, you read that right. A South African classic — weird, wild, and seriously fun!

Enjoy a beautiful a cappella performance of sacred and secular music from the medieval era to today by Saeculum Aurum. Free entry with a retiring collection. Stay after for a glass of wine and light snacks.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as musician Riaan Smit pays tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash. With his amazing vocals and heartfelt performance, Riaan brings The Man in Black’s iconic songs to life. 
Book early R200pp — tickets are limited and this one’s sure to sell out! Bookings: 0722152727

Who will be crowned the beard boss of Bathurst?

Join Chef Ray Hanekom-Barnard at The Stage – Theatre on the Green for an elegant evening of perfectly paired wines by Durbanville Hills and artfully crafted canapés. Expect bold flavours, fine wine, and a taste experience that’s both theatrical and unforgettable. Bookings essential - 083 645 1280

Join us for an unforgettable evening as musician Riaan Smit pays tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash. With his amazing vocals and heartfelt performance, Riaan brings The Man in Black’s iconic songs to life. 
Book early R200pp — tickets are limited and this one’s sure to sell out! Bookings: 0722152727

Who’s got the biggest (or best) belly in Bathurst? Cheer on the bold contenders in this belly-busting battle.

Step up to the mic and sing your heart out! Join Trevor for a lively night of karaoke at the historic Pig & Whistle Pub — great tunes, plenty of laughs, and a crowd ready to cheer you on.