Billed as an “enviro-arts” festival that covers the marine big five - whales, sharks, dolphins, penguins and seals – The Hermanus Whale Festival will not only feature environmental arts and education initiatives but also top performers and musicians.

Now in its 20th year, this is the first time the festival has a headline sponsor, in popular wine brand, Two Oceans.  It’s a boost that gives the festival organisers the opportunity to offer the most exciting and varied range of events and activities to date, including great wine and food pairings. The marine-themed and specialty dishes will be marketed at promotional prices over the five days of the festival.

There will also be six music venues providing music for all tastes, a vintage car show, a Mardi Gras, and a full sports programme taking place throughout the festival, which includes mountain bike races, half marathons, and a Harbour to Harbour swim.

Hermanus, known as one of the best land-based whale watching destination in the world, plays host to thousands of visitors each year, who flock to the seaside resort to experience the exquisite natural environment, watch whales breach and play, catch a glimpse of their snow white calves, and revel in music, food, art and performances for which the festival has become famous.

A major feature of this year’s festival will be the Two Oceans Food Court at Market Square, with the accent on local restaurateurs, local produce, artisanal cheese, bakery, charcuterie and chocolate, as well as other local suppliers of foods and snacks.

This year’s Two Oceans Hermanus Whale Festival runs from Friday, September 30 to Tuesday, October 4. For more information on the festival, please go to www.whalefestival.co.za or contact 028 313 0928.