Kalfiefees was established in 2000 to celebrate the arrival of the southern right whales along the Overstrand coast, particularly the mothers and calves seen close to shore during the winter months. The name “Kalfiefees”, meaning “Calf Festival,” is a nod to this special time.
What began as a small, community-driven celebration in Onrus has since grown into one of the Western Cape’s most loved winter festivals, now spanning Onrus, Sandbaai, and Hermanus.
Over the years, the festival has become an important showcase of Afrikaans arts and culture, focusing on theatre, music, literature, and visual arts.
Despite its growth, the Kalfiefees has stayed true to its roots, celebrating local talent and the unique coastal environment that makes the Overstrand special.