This year, the Franschhoek Bastille Festival from July 11-15, will celebrate freedom in South Africa. As well as gourmet food and wine experiences, a Long Walk to the French Huguenot Monument in commemoration of the release of Nelson Mandela will take place.

The popular and well-received festival, traditionally includes plenty of food and wine on offer with a definite French ambience. Franschhoek’s status as the gourmet capital of South Africa will no doubt be reaffirmed.

Top chefs in the village will prepare spectacular dishes and match them with world class award-winning wines from the valley.

With Franschhoek containing one of the Top 50 restaurants in the world, Le Quartier Francais, from chef Margot Janse, as well as the much-loved Reuben’s from chef Reuben Riffel, the cuisine promises to be outstanding.

Many buildings in Franschhoek will be draped in red, white and blue (after the French flag) in order to join in the celebration and berets are spotted on every corner.

This year, Mr Tokyo Sexwale, patron of the Franschhoek Wine Valley Tourist Association (FWVTA) and upon whom the highest order, Légion dhonneur was bestowed by French President Mr. Mitterrand, will lead The Long Walk from Drakenstein prison (formerly Victor Verster) to the French Huguenot Monument in commemoration of the release of Nelson Mandela. A guillotine play will highlight the end of this significant walk.

This fun walk will be accompanied by decorated floats assembled from farm tractors and trailers in the valley each celebrating positive aspects of South African history, life and other relevant international aspects.

All interested South Africans and foreigners are invited to participate in The Long Walk.

A French film festival will also take place as well as many other events.

Eat, drink, laugh, enjoy yourself and celebrate South Africa’s transition to freedom.

For more information and a list of events visit www.bastillefestival.co.za or for accommodation visit the Franschhoek Tourism website www.franschhoek.org.za.