From its unexpected debut success in 1990 with just over a thousand locals showing their support on the banks of the Splashy Fen farm, to an 7000 sold-out festival in 2018, and an expected turn out of 10 000 Fenners for Splashy Fen’s 30th Edition… festival management have made strategic efforts to ensure there is something for everyone to eat, drink and enjoy over the Easter long weekend.
30 YEARS OF TRADING
“As we celebrate the festival’s 30th year in operation, and our 4th year at the helm, the moment is not lost on us,” says Festival Director Stu Berry of Impi Concept Events. “This iconic festival means so much to so many people; musicians, fans, locals and in particular, our food and craft vendors; without whom the success of Splashy Fen would not be possible. While music most certainly makes it great, Splashy Fen is so much more than just a series of concerts. It’s an experience where families and friends can come together to enjoy themselves. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and away from the monotony and formality of large shopping centres and mass-produced products. If you’re looking for unique products made by hand and from the heart, then Splashy Fen is it!”
In 1991, Phillippe Renaud came to Underberg to showcase and sell his hand crafted jewellery at Splashy Fen Music Festival. 2019 will see the cheery Frenchman return to the iconic festival to trade for his 29th year!
“I have seen a major improvement since Stu Berry and his team took over the running of Splashy Fen,” says Renaud. “More dustbins, better signage, manicured landscapes and a better more diverse music offering – there certainly is a better vibe on site, one that now includes younger children. The festival is more animated and I am so looking forward to this 30th year bringing even more magic memories for me and all the festival goers. ”
Renaud is just one of many craft and food vendors who have been making the annual trip to the rolling hills of Underberg every Easter to provide an array of food, craft and entertainment for Splashy Fenners.
First time traders Liz and Cally from Silver Lining Gumboots are excited for Splashy Fen. “It’s our first Splashy Fen as traders, but not the first Splashy Fen we have attended. Aptly named SA’s Friendliest Festival, the Splashy Fen vibe is unmistakable. People from all over the world and all ages come together under the beautiful Drakensberg mountains to tune into some of the best music SA has to offer. It’s a unique music festival! And Splashy Fen would not be Splashy if it did not rain, it actually adds to the fun… it’s such a privilege to be officially launching our range of Silver Lining Gumboots at the festival. Thank you Splashy Fen!”
SPLASHY FEN FOOD STALLS
From delicious stir fry delights, hearty potjies and vegan treats to all sorts of hamburger, panini, wrap and sandwich offerings, pizza cones, gourmet Greek, Mexican and Shisa N’yama meals, chicken bites, smoked meats, soups and the best wors rolls this side of the mountain… festival goers can sample a massive variety of options from more than 30 food vendors, to enjoy breakfast, lunch dinner and any-time snacks in-between. Food vendors operate from 8am every morning until late.
SPLASHY FEN CRAFT STALLS
Browse the stalls to discover your new favourite pair of gumboots from first time vendors Silver Lining Gumboots. Left your beanie or sunhat at home? No problem – just pop over to the craft area and grab a new one from HM Hats & Caps. Tye dye and crocheted creations, glass artworks, veldskoen, beach brollies, décor items, bikinis, picnic blankets and an impressively large selection of clothing and footwear are all available for festival goers from 8am on Thursday the 18th – the first day of the festival.
If you’re working up an appetite at the craft stalls, not to worry, because the Splashy Fen craft area now has its very own selection of drinks and snacks on offer. Try a delicious gourmet popsicle from The Frozen Foundry, snack on the tastiest sweets, popcorn and cooked chips, or soak up the sun while sipping on fresh juice straight from a coconut at the Squeeze Me juice stall. Craft Vendors operate from 8am every morning from Thursday through to Monday morning.
South Africa’s longest running music festival will take place over the traditional Easter weekend from Thursday the 18th of April to Monday the 22nd of April 2019. Tickets are limited to 8000 and are selling fast!
Visit www.splashyfen.co.za to book your tickets today!