Easter 2017 is swiftly approaching, meaning a long weekend of holy observance and over indulgence. Be it with family, friends, chocolate bunnies or pickled fish, there’s no doubt that Easter weekend will ring in age-old traditions. But why not unwind with loved ones in a new setting or put a fresh spin on a good old egg hunt? Our list of definitive highlights will be suitable for the entire family.
1 Mad Hatter’s Easter Wonderland
Nothing is more whimsical than a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Throw in some magicians and a golden egg hunt, and this Easter Wonderland is every kids’ fantasy come true. Children aged five to 12 can dress up in their favourite Mad Hatter’s ensemble to enjoy interactive activities such as art and crafts, cupcake-making and more. Plus, Willy Wonka will be making a surprise turn.
OF NOTE
When Sunday 16 April 1–4 pm
Where The Atrium, GrandWest Casino & Entertainment World, 1 Jakes Gerwel Drive, Goodwood
Cost R100 per child, available at Doughnut Hive until 12 April 2017
Contact +27 21 505 7777
2 Easter Buffet at Radisson Blu Waterfront
Enjoy some fine dining at the upscale Radisson Blu, prepared by Chef Norman Heath of Tobago’s Restaurant. This decadent Sunday lunch is complemented by crisp ocean air and magnificent views of the Atlantic. It’s perfect for a large family gathering or Easter get-together with friends. For a more intimate dinner date, choose a table on the terrace to bask in the last rays of summer or have a dip in the infinity pool.
OF NOTE
When Sunday 16 April 12:30–3:30 pm
Where Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Beach Road, Granger Bay
Cost R425 pp, half price for children aged five to 12
Contact +27 21 441 3000, [email protected], radissonblu.com
3 Educational Delights at the V&A Waterfront
As Easter and the school holidays intersect, keep the young ones occupied with enriching entertainment that sparks their interest. The V&A Waterfront has put together a creative and stimulating holiday programme to fuel the most inquisitive minds. A 3D illusion exhibition, a LEGO play area and an up-tempo musical showcase are just some of the activities on offer. For more information and a full schedule of the programme, visit the V&A Waterfront website.
OF NOTE
WhenMonday 3 April – Monday 17 April
Where Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Cost Various
Contact +27 21 408 7600, waterfront.co.za
4 One& and Only Easter Specials
The One&Only has planned an appetising Easter weekend for both the young and the young at heart. Set the tone on Good Friday with a sophisticated seafood dinner at the elegant Rueben’s restaurant, accompanied by a selection of fine wines. Rueben’s will offer a local Cape inspired lunch on Easter Sunday, combined with live entertainment for a truly festive afternoon. The meal is R795 for adults and half price for children aged four to 12. For those craving some Japanese cuisine with a South African twist, head over to Nobu on Friday or Sunday for dishes from their a la carte menu.
After a hearty meal, indulge in novelty cakes and sweet treats at Afternoon Tea on Good Friday or Easter Saturday, or an extra special Easter-themed tea on Easter Sunday. The cost is R295 per person for Friday and Saturday, and R350 per person on Sunday.
Lastly, keep the little ones busy with a magic show and face paint. For just R95, kids can also participate in a kiddie Easter Tea followed by a thrilling scavenger hunt.
OF NOTE
WhenFriday 14 April – Sunday 16 April
Where One&Only, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Cost R95 – R795 pp
Contact Reuben’s +27 21 431 4511, Nobu +27 21 300 7296, oneandonlyresorts.com
5 Easter at Boschendal
This year, Boschendal is inviting you to create warm memories with family and loved ones with an array of Easter specials.
Easter Egg Hunt
Children can enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of games, face-painting and pony rides on the beautiful Werf picnic lawns whilst parents can bask in a picnic for two. Picnics begin at 12 pm and hunts at 12:30 pm.
OF NOTE
When Friday 14 and Sunday 16 April 12 pm
Cost R395 for a basket for two adults sharing, R210 for a basket for one, R150 per child aged three to 12
Werf Restaurant Three-Course Menu
Enjoy a three-course meal prepared with fresh ingredients straight from the farm by Chef Christiaan Campbell.
OF NOTE
WhenFriday 14 April 7 pm and Sunday 16 April 12 pm
Cost R495 pp
Rhone Homestead Traditional Easter Buffet
Rhone Homestead will be serving a traditional Easter Buffet throughout the long weekend, or take home some freshly baked hot cross buns or Easter gifts from the Farm Shop and Deli.
OF NOTE
When Friday 14 April – Sunday 17 April 12 pm
Where Boschendal Estate, Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek
Cost R495 pp
Contact +27 21 870 4274, boschendal.com
6 Baskin Robbins Easter Ice Cream Cakes
World-renowned ice cream parlour Baskin Robbins have created three delectable #cakes just in time for Easter. The bright and vibrant Chicky will be almost too cute to eat whilst the colourful Happi-nest and Easter Treat will light up any occasion. Ready-made options are available at the Canal Walk and Tyger Valley branches but ice-cream lovers can also customise their cakes by choosing from the brand’s signature 31 ice cream flavours. These cakes will be available for a limited time only until 29 April and orders need to be placed at least five days in advance.
OF NOTE
When Saturday 1 April – Saturday 29 April
Where Shop 17, Lower Level, Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Century City and Tygervalley Shopping Centre, Waterfront Street, Corner Bill Bezuidenhout and Willie Van Schoor Drive, Bellville
Cost R150 – R650, depending on size
Contact +27 80 227 54672, baskin-robbins.co.za
Photography Courtesy images