The Hermanus Whale Festival is the only Enviro-Arts extravaganza in South Africa. This event is held every year to welcome the return of the Southern Right whales to the Walker Bay and the arrival of spring. The festival will be celebrated from 2nd to 4th October, 2015 and this year will mark its 24th anniversary.
Origin of the Hermanus Whale Festival
Situated in the extreme South of Africa, Hermanus offers a front-row view of the Cape Whale Route and is known as the best land based whale watching destination in the world. During the season of migration, it plays host to thousands of visitors who climb cliffs to spot the endangered southern right whales. The event was started to make the cliff-top viewing a formal affair and a whale crier was put in place. The world-famous whale-crier of Hermanus blasts out different sequences of long and short notes from his kelp horn to alert eager whale-watchers about the presence of whales.
Celebrations of the Fest
The whales are the star performers and overshadow the musicians, sports celebrities and thousands of visitors. The Hermanus Whale Festival is a fantastic opportunity to learn about these mysterious beasts of the deep seas. The biggest highlight is the Welcome Whale Wave Walk. For this activity about 5000 people create a 5km long human chain to welcome the whales. This festival is one of its kind and also among the most enthusiastically celebrated events in Africa.
Main attractions at the event
You can exhilarate in the unique natural environment, watch the magnificent whales, participate in the world’s only Welcome Whales Wave Walk, and enjoy music, comedy shows, cabaret performances, and African rhythms every night during the festival. However, apart from that you will get to see a variety of eco-marine displays and educational shows by environmental researchers. Furthermore, you will also spot attractions like vibrant craft markets, wine and beer tents, sound systems for bands, DJs, music arts, magic shows, art classes, vintage car shows, and sports events like bike races, and marathons.
