Due to various random reasons, I’ve missed the Bastille Festival for two years running, which is suuuch a pity as it’s one of the best things to do in Franschhoek next to its epic champagne festival. This year, however, there’s nothing holding me back and I’ll be hitting up the venue with a bunch of super fun, beret-rocking girlfriends. Just keep an eye on my Instagram feed over the weekend for a string of festival mooiness.

Apparently, it’s going to rain, but don’t let that put you off. Just secure a spot in the popular Food & Wine Marquee where most of the action goes down in the form of wine and bubbly tastings. (My top tip? Bat your eyes at the farmers when they pouring and your tasting becomes a glass.) Your only real problem – after finding a red scarf to complete your blue and white outfit that you’ll actually wear again – will be deciding between more oysters or a second pancake. Alternatively, you can head over to the indoor market to snap up olives, homemade cheese and preserves, artisanal breads* and more.

Haven’t got your ticket yet? They’re still up for grabs over here. Entrance to the family friendly Food & Wine hall is R120 a pop and includes a complimentary tasting glass, a booklet of tasting coupons as well as a R20 wine voucher to be used on the day. Children under 18 enter for free.

A ticket to the Food & Wine Marquee (it gets fabulously raucous as the day goes on – this is where you’ll meet Henk, the old money wine farmer who wears kortbroek in the middle of winter but holidays in the Seychelles) is R200 which includes a complimentary tasting glass, a booklet of tasting coupons as well as a R20 wine voucher.

Am I going to see you there?

Love, love

Leigh

*Carbs don’t count if they’re artisanal. Just saying.