Limpopo Tourism has announced the dates for the 14th annual Limpopo Marula Festival. Celebrating Marula Month in February, the province will host a number of events, culminating on the last weekend of the month, February 22 and 23.
The festival, a partnership between the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism and those involved in the marula tree industry, celebrates the concentration of marula trees found in the sub-tropical parts of the province, particularly the Mopani District. Limpopo Mukumbi Industries is a co-operative of 14 small businesses tasked with being the official supplier of the famous home-brewed marula fruit beverage (known as Morula, Mukumbi or Vukanyi) which has created consistent employment for people in growing, harvesting and brewing.
Limpopo Marula Festival has its permanent home in Phalaborwa, close to key tourist destinations like the Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon and Magoebaskloof, allowing tourists to include a number of sites in one trip. The town offers visitors a wide variety of accommodation options, an airport and a number of game lodges nearby. The festival also offers a home-stay option for visitors, where guests can stay with local people in the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality for an authentic experience of the region and the people.
The 2019 festival will kick off with a youth concert, half marathon and 4x4 challenge on February 22. Thereafter, a week-long funfair-style event will be held including a street parade and food stalls showcasing local cuisine. On March 2, the festival will culminate in a golf challenge and Jazz and Gospel concert.
Sonto Ndlovu, Limpopo Tourism CEO, told Tourism Update: “This festival books out quickly, so it is important to plan early to come and experience the region, our culture, food and scenery.” She went on to explain that the province hosted a number of festivals throughout the year, offering great options for families, adventurers, music lovers and outdoor lovers.
