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BUSINESS NEWS - The succulent festival (vetplantfees), hosted by the Calitzdorp Succulent Society, showcases many of South Africa's beautiful and rare succulents, as well as succulents from all over the world.
This year, the festival takes place at the Calitzdorp Station in the Little Karoo from 18 to 20 September.
Explore indigenous and rare succulent species in their natural habitat, purchase exceptional specimens that are seldom available through commercial nurseries, and receive expert advice on propagating, cultivating and caring for succulents at home.
The festival also features botanical art, specialist books, delicious local cuisine, guided nature walks, exhibitions and informative workshops presented by knowledgeable experts.
Rare plants for sale
Thousands of rare and indigenous potted succulents will be for sale during the festival.
The plant sale will start at 09:00 on Friday 18 September and will continue until 15:00 on Sunday 20 September.
Workshops
Learn the art of succulent propagation in a practical workshop presented by expert grower Yvonne Hemenway. Participants will take home their own planted seeds and cuttings. A second workshop, presented by Charl Pretorius of Tuinateljee, will focus on creating unique living décor using succulents.
Participants can make their own table arrangement, wall hanging or succulent ball, with all materials supplied. The workshop takes place at 15:30 on Friday 18 September.
Veld walks
Trained CapeNature guides will escort small groups of enthusiasts on 90-minute walks to Calitzdorp's famous Jakkalskop, where dozens of succulent plant varieties will be in flower. It is an experience not to be missed and has proven to be very popular with festival-goers.
Space is limited to eight persons per tour (five per day on Friday and Saturday and two on Sunday).
Expert talks
Festival visitors can enjoy a series of free talks by leading plant experts, offering insights into the latest succulent research and conservation. No booking is required, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The programme opens at 11:00 on Friday 18 September, with Dr Ernst van Jaarsveld and Cornell Beukes, who will share highlights of their 12-day 2026 expedition through southwestern Angola, exploring the iconic welwitschia and other succulent species found in the region.
Dinner
The festival dinner is a highlight of the Calitzdorp Succulent Festival, bringing together succulent enthusiasts and experts from across South Africa. Guests can enjoy a memorable meal prepared by the ladies of the Calitzdorp DR Church.
This year's guest speaker, aloe expert Jaap Viljoen, will present "Aloes: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow".
Visitors can also explore an exhibition of botanical artwork by some of South Africa's leading artists, with pieces available for purchase.
Booking is essential for most of the events and can be done on www.vetplant.co.za. The various entry fees can also be found here.
Enquiries: 076 298 7337 / [email protected]
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