Hermanus Whale Festival 2019 - Hermanus Festivals

Welcome to the ultimate celebration of the ocean’s gentle giants – the Hermanus Whale Festival! Join us for a weekend filled with fun, entertainment, and appreciation for nature’s most magnificent creatures.

As the only ECO-MARINE festival in the world, the Hermanus Whale Festival offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Get up close and personal with southern right whales as they make their annual migration to the coastal waters of Hermanus. Learn about marine conservation efforts, shop for handmade goods at our vibrant markets, indulge in delicious food, enjoy live music, and so much more.

Don’t miss out on the 33rd edition of this iconic festival, which has grown from humble beginnings to become an internationally recognized event. With an estimated 75,000 to 130,000 visitors each year, the Hermanus Whale Festival is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves nature and adventure.

Come join us for a weekend of wonder and excitement at the Hermanus Whale Festival. Book your tickets now and be a part of this unforgettable experience!
#HermanusWhaleFestival #whalefestival

It is a tribute to the legacy left to the town by Wendy the Whale whose story is about man’s ability to live in harmony with nature as well as people’s ability to come together as communities valuing the environment. All events and activities during the whale festival are focused to create awareness on how to protect the whales and all our marine wildlife who share our coastal waters. The festival takes place at the end of September which is the peak of whale activity in the region.

The gentle giants are the main attraction, but there are loads to do, eat and drink at the Hermanus Whale Festival – from live music to vintage cars!

The festival combines whale watching from shore and sea with live shows, hands-on family fun, street parades, film, music, seafood and local produce.

What can you expect at the Hermanus whale Festival?

There’s a spectacular street parade, vibrant markets showcasing and selling the work of local artisans, great food, educational marine displays, lots of children’s entertainment, live music, and – of course – the best whale watching experience in the world!!

An inter-active Eco – Marine Village with loads of activities, each will be in the program
Marine and other Nature talks in the Marine tent
Treasure hunt in the Eco-Marine Tent for the kiddies on Saturday and Sunday (12 pm-2pm)
10km Fun Run to new Harbour on Saturday morning 7am
3 x day Live Music on the Coke Stage at Gearing’s Point
Local Talent present “battle of the DJ’s” Friday on the Coke Stage [3 – 8pm]
Kiddies Entertainment on Market Square and Eco-Marine Village
The popular Street Parade on Saturday Morning
Whales and Wheels Classic Car Show at Sandbaai Hall
Arts & Craft Stalls on Market Square.
Great food at the festival as well as restaurants in Hermanus
Strongman Competition – Sunday
Rugby + Netball at the Mount Pleasant Rugby Field

View the full programme here.

Hermanus Whale Festival

The Only Eco-Marine Festival in the world!