East London is like a city that never rests. From Sunday to next Sunday, there is something exciting happening in the city, including work. Work is part of the vibrancy of the city because it is what drove the successful economic growth in the past 10 to 12 years. At the same time there is a sense of history and old-fashioned goodwill, which is not something you will find only in the festive season.
Aside from the glorious beaches where sand-boarding and surfing competitions are held, there are other annual events that happen to keep the city busy. It helps that the weather at this end of South Africa is generally pleasant and predictable.
On rainy days, everyone is welcome to stop by the museum to get another glimpse at the one and only dodo egg in the world, or be enthralled once more with the coelacanth exhibit. Otherwise, here are some of the annual events that everyone waits for with exciting anticipation.
The Gonubie Christmas Fair
From December 16 to 18, the Gonubie Christmas Fair takes centre stage in East London. There are the usual food and gift items for sale and some local talent to keep everyone happy. It’s scheduled perfectly to get that holiday cheer going. There’s even a beer tent for those who just want to sit back and watch the crowd go by. As you all know, the proceeds from the Gonubie Christmas Fair will be given to our local charities so it’s a great way to share and enjoy.
The Discovery Surfers Challenge 2012
The Discovery Surfers Challenge is scheduled for February 2012. It’s a race that starts at Kwelera River at the Yellow Sands north side of the city. It’s a rugged course that has both boulders and soft sand, so one has to have experience to join this race. Be ready to swim, run, and then swim again to reach the finish line. If you’ve never done anything this strenuous before, start training now.
The race is expected to take about 2.5 hours for the average sportsman and even the last one to cross the finish line gets a t-shirt – the coveted prize. Throughout the race, you will see spectators cheering everyone so be sure you get your family and friends to boost your spirits somewhere between the middle and end of the track. There is a fee to join but it’s just R70-00.
The East London Children’s Home Candlelit Christmas Market
Another worthy cause is this night market where ticket proceeds go to the Children’s Home. Tickets cost only R50-00, and it includes a free drink.
The Wild Coast Jikeleza Country Fair
The wonderful aspect about living in East London is the diversity in culture and social backgrounds, so aside from all the sports and arts, the city also has its annual Jikeleza Country Fair. It’s usually held around July, and it’s a 2 day family event held just 30 km outside the city. The exact venue is the Inkwenkezi Private Game Reserve, and you can expect food, entertainment, home-made items and crafts, and the ever-sought after, must-have, beer garden.
Other great events to look forward to are the Off-road Triathlon in Pecan Valley, the summer carnival, Merrifield Mile swim event, agricultural shows, the Bush Warrior Challenge, flea markets, and the food and wine fair.