WELCOME TO THE WATERBLOMMETJIE FESTIVAL
CELEBRATING AN INDIGENOUS DELICACY
WATERBLOMMETJIE
/ˈvɑ ː təˌ blɒməki/
noun
Aka Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae).
The waterblommetjie is one of South Africa's most famous edible plants. It has a long history of use by the indigenous Khoikhoi, both medicinally and as a nutritious food.
The name means "little water flower" and though it's an edible flower, it's not the sort that is used to garnish a salad.
A celebration of Waterblommetjies on Saturday, 5 September 2026
The Cape’s beloved Waterblommetjie Festival is back for its 16th edition. This year Windmeul Kelder, Rhebokskloof Estate and Domaine Brahms outside Paarl will team up to celebrate this indigenous delicacy. Each location offers a range of fun activities unique to their venue. Festivities start from 08:00 in the morning. Check the individual offerings of each location and make sure to visit all of them!
The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of the Western Cape.
It is only harvested for a short period each year, which makes it a sought-after ingredient. Used in heritage foods such as the traditional waterblommetjiebredie (stew), the KhoiKhoi used it for medicinal purposes and is packed with vitamins.
Entry fee: Free of charge
Bring the whole family and enjoy the Waterblommetjiefees without spending a cent at the gate! Entry is completely free, so come soak up the flavours, music and festivities with no cost to your pocket.
Windmeul Kelder
Waterblommetjies & wine pairing, farmers' market,
potjiekos competition and live music
Windmeul is the original home of the festival and is also hosting its popular farmer’s market on the day. Enjoy a sumptuous farmer’s breakfast to set you up for the day. Fitness fans can enter the Run the Vine trial run before indulging in a waterblommetjie and wine pairing. The fiercely contested potjiekos competition will also be part of the fun, while live music always creates a great vibe. Enjoy authentic waterblommetjies – either outside or for a special treat inside the working cellar. Seating is on a first come first served basis. Stock up on your favourite Windmeul wines, including their award-winning Chenin Blanc. There is a designated kids’ area with jumping castle, face painting, balloon twisting.
Rhebokskloof
Estate
Award-winning wines, live entertainment and activities for children
Rhebokskloof is highlighting their superb wines such as the Rhebokskloof Shiraz with a delicious tapas and wine pairing. Pre-booking for this tasting is essential. The restaurant will serve a couple of waterblommetjie inspired dishes, including a stew, paella and nutritious salad.
Try the special waterblommetjie cocktail, which has been created especially for this year.
Outdoor Experiences
Trail run and mountain bike through the vineyards
Outdoor enthusiasts can also get in some action before sampling the great food and wines at the Waterblommetjie Festival. The Run the Vines trail run will take place at Windmeul Kelder. Distances include a 3km for juniors, 5km, 10km and 17km with starting times between 08h00 and 08h45. Entry fees range, depending on the distances. All finishers receive medals. Register here.
Keen mountain bikers can head to Rhebokskloof Estate for an MTB outride. Watch this space for more information about this event.
Domaine
Brahms
Family-friendly farm atmosphere and lots of activities
Domaine Brahms is truly a festival of fun. Book our famous buffet brunch, a themed high tea, visit the vintage car museum, showcase your vintage car and win prizes. Prebook for a garden picnic.
Relax and enjoy food and drinks while the kids play at the Rooibus Playpark with Jumping Pillow, waterslide, animals and much more. Enjoy and buy their world-class wine at festival prices. Waterblom dishes are available all day.
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