Good news – despite uncertainty about what Covid restrictions would mean for public events, the Proudly Porterville Art Weekend, an annual event that has firmly made a name for  tself on the events calendar, will be taking place once again in the picturesque town of Porterville in the Swart- land from the 26th to the 29th of November.

This highly anticipated art experience – now in its third year – provides an opportunity for art lov- ers, foodies, families, outdoor enthusiasts and any- one looking for a city escape to get out and about, make memories, have fun and view and purchase a wide variety of art from acclaimed artists that have made Porterville their home.

Event organisers say that they are anticipating a bumper event this year as local South Africans are satisfying their wanderlust. Pent up demand for travel and experiences, which developed over hard lockdown has seen a welcome breath of life for small rural towns as South Africans clamour to get out and about after months of restrictions on movement.

Proudly Porterville (previously entitled “Pure Porterville” ) is in its third year this year and offer art enthusiasts, collectors, investors and interior decorators alike a weekend not to be missed. Be- sides the more “serious” business of viewing and purchasing art, there are many other activities on offer to make a long weekend of it.
The Porterville community has come together to produce an exciting and varied festival, and visitors can expect exhibitions showcasing art and handcrafted products in the form of paintings, jew- ellery, ceramics, bespoke tableware, woodwork, mosaics, crochet, quilting, beading and more. Lo- cal artists will also be facilitating ceramic and paint- ing workshops over the course of the weekend.
Well over ten group exhibitions will take place at various venues throughout the town showcas- ing the work of a myriad of artists. In addition to this many of the resident artists will be opening their homes and studios directly to the public for the weekend.
Something for everyone
In addition to the arts, there is something at Proudly Porterville for foodies, families, outdoor enthusiasts, young and old alike. Stock up on fresh local produce, preserves and many other delicacies at the Farmers Market. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of several top restaurants in town. Take part in one of the workshops being hosted during the weekend. Go mountain biking or running on the beautiful local trails. Relax and savour small town
These are just a few examples of what is on offer which allow visitors to experience the village life and immerse themselves in the many wonder- ful country town offerings that make rural living so appealing. Nearly all of the attractions are within walking distance from each other, so visitors can park and stroll through the  town,  enjoying  the art exhibitions, stopping for a meal, buying local fare – all with a beautiful mountain backdrop as Porterville  is  nestled  at  the  foot  of  the Olifants
 
Porterville is only 150 km’s from Cape Town and visitors are encouraged to stay over the entire weekend. There are many different accommoda- tion options on offer from more remote farm-stays to B&B hospitality in the centre of town, camping, self-catering accommodation and more.
Tickets are not required for the Proudly Porter- ville weekend as entry is free, but accommodation bookings, restaurant reservations and workshop bookings are recommended ahead of the time due to demand. For more information visit www.por- tervilletourism.co.za or contact Porterville Tourism Office (022-931 3732).
What: Proudly Porterville Art Weekend Where: Porterville, Cape, South Africa
When: 26 & 29 November 2020 – Workshops on the 26th, exhibitions open 27th.
Info: www.portervilletourism.co.za; 022 931
3732