Special Events in Stanford Village
Whether it's a sociable and active weekend you're after or on the other end of the scale - looking for 'a license to chill' - Stanford is for you! The village has really carved out an interesting niche in the weekend leisure market. Situated in the Overberg, this is a small village with a big personality. It retains the same old-world charm from its establishment in 1857, but at the same time, manages to provide a wealth of contemporary activities and events for visitors and locals to enjoy.
It’s no wonder that Stanford won the Best Village Destination in the Southern African Destination Awards in 2012. These are just a few of the special events that earned it that title.
Stanford Morning Market: Every Saturday from 10:00 – 13:00 the town of Stanford comes to life with the Morning Market! It’s a market hosted on the “stoep” (veranda) of the Stanford Hotel and is truly a foodie’s paradise where locals will sell fresh seasonal veggies from their gardens and cakes, pastries and pies, breads, preserves, honey, flowers and even herbs. Don’t forget to take along your basket or shopping bag for transporting your purchases though.
Stanford Evening Market: Every last Friday of the month from 18:00 – 20:00 visitors and locals alike will gather on the Village Square for the Evening Market. While this is also an affair infused with delicious cuisine, the sunset atmosphere allows for a very festive affair where mingling with locals and meeting people is encouraged. There is usually live music and you can stock up on organic veggies at the same time. If it is your supper stop, then you’ll love the wide range of food available from tacos with guacamole to local wine and even Don Gelato’s traditional artisanal Italian gelato.
Stanford Classics: In the spring, Stanford Classics usually visits this quaint village. This is the return of 5 international musicians from the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra - who are a firm favourite at the now renowned annual Wine, Whale and Music weekend at De Hoop. You’ll enjoy an evening of majestic music for strings and flute by famous composers of beautiful classical and light popular music.
Stanford Stumble: Every November, you have the chance to take part in the Stanford Stumble Fun Run. This also includes a wide range of attractions and activities for the whole family. These include live music, an amazing array of freshly produced foods and treats, as well as plenty of wine and fun! There are usually fun prizes for the best dressed and all proceeds go to the Butterfly Foundation.