I attended a camping festival and this is how it went
The event is what I’d like to call an easy-going adult groove where sustenance, hydration, rest and pacing yourself are the holy grail of surviving the festival.
Revellers enjoying live music at the festival. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - Before attending a camping festival this past week, I had never heard of or been to the small town of Balfour, which plays host to this annual event.
The gold mining and maize farming town, which falls under the Mpumalanga province, is located about a 90-minute drive from Johannesburg.
The Bacardi Holiday Club gave me an opportunity to not only experience the crazy and wonderful world of camping festivals, but I also got to add a new place to my travel bucket list.
This year’s theme was Oasis and since I had no clue what that meant in fashion terms for a three-day event, I decided to pack clothing that would be suitable for both warm and cold weather. A decision that proved to be a wise one given the unpredictable weather we experienced. The day was sweltering hot, and the nights were freezing cold.
Tickets for the event usually go on sale in the springtime the year before and they sell out in a very short space of time.
The ticket covers camping facilities, unlimited food and beverages for the entire weekend.
The event was nothing like what I had imagined.
The gates opened on midday on Friday – giving attendees enough time to mount tents and situate themselves accordingly. My colleague and I arrived in the evening and the party was already in full swing.
At first it was a bit overwhelming because I didn’t know what to truly expect but after a few casual chats with some people there, I felt at ease. People were as nice as you’d expect people who’re on holiday to be – easy going, minding their business but simultaneously caring and just oozing an energy of “I’m here for a good time and lots of fun”. I think that was my favourite part – the people.
There were three camping tiers – basic tents - perfect for those seeking simplicity and comfort with their own tents, comfy tents – an upgrade with added amenities for a cozy stay and luxe tents - premium, fully-equipped luxury tents.
The latter two fall under the glamping experience. There were plenty of toilets and outside showers; all cleanly kept in a central place within walking distance of the tents.
The downside was what felt like a walk of shame when going for a shower, this involved walking past several tents and on-lookers while draped in a towel or in your PJs. And, depending on how (un)lucky you were, you’d stand in the blistering heat in a queue to shower – all this with music already blasting from other campers or at one of the stages.
A steel wash trough with taps was also provided for brushing our teeth.
After fiery sets by Friday’s line up of DJ’s, we woke up ready for another day of partying on Saturday.
The first item on the day’s agenda was yoga in the morning. Breakfast and coffee were served in the morning. Other food options such as a braai box, pizza, nachos, pies etc. were also served throughout the weekend along with beverages. These were all accessible until after midnight. The food was good, the braai box was certainly my favourite meal option.
We then eased our way into the groove of things and the party was back on after freshening up.
The fashion was truly superb. Some of the various expressions of Oasis were something to marvel at. My biggest takeaway? If you’re one who respects themes, then I’d highly recommend that you come prepared.
There were four stages: the Casa Bacardi, Pool, Forest and Mirage, all perfectly spaced out at the Welgenhof Manor. This made for an easy transition from one stage to another.
Some of the country’s revered artists like the legendary band Skwatta Kamp, house DJ and producer Oscar Mbo, RnB sensation Shekinah, and Amapiano songstress Babalwa M entertained us throughout the weekend.
There were also other upcoming acts who certainly elevated the mood to ethereal levels; Hip Hop artist Usimamane; Gqom DJs Zvri, Lelowhatsgood; DJ Capital, TxC and too many others to mention.
On Sunday morning, we were treated to an incredible brunch performance by Manana and other DJ performances that reminded us that the end is near but equally making us wish we’d have just one more day.
Overall, it was a great travel experience. The event is what I’d like to call an easy-going adult groove where sustenance, hydration, rest and pacing yourself are the holy grail of surviving the festival.