Set against the rugged backdrop of Middelburg in the Eastern Cape, the Karoo Winter Wool Festival is returning for its third edition from 14 – 16 June 2024. This festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of natural fibers, the rich heritage of the Karoo, and the vital role that wool plays in South Africa’s economy.
Hosted at the scenic Dwarsvlei Guest Farm, the festival kicks off on 14 June with a selection of educational and entertaining activities, including historical tours and various wool workshops. The day’s events conclude with a gala dinner at Karel Theron Primary School, where industry leaders gather to discuss and network.
Friday’s schedule is packed with highlights, including “Landbou Weekblad Familieboerdery Meestersklas”, Wool market, food stalls and the much-anticipated Wool Fashion Showcase. Curated by Merchants on Long, this event promises to blend high fashion with the authentic essence of the Karoo, showcasing garments against the landscape that inspired them. The speaker programme includes experts like Dr. Bruce Rubidge and Merino SA discussing the future of farming and the significance of natural fibers.
Saturday continues the theme with more interactive wool workshops and a lively wool market with Merino studs. The festival also offers a unique cultural experience with the “Fibre Focus” session featuring Peter Ackroyd (Campaign for Wool) and the Threads team. The day concludes with live demonstrations, a captivating wine tasting at Babylonstoren and a traditional Karoo Braai with live music, epitomizing the spirit of local camaraderie and celebration.
Throughout the festival, attendees can immerse themselves in a series of live demonstrations that showcase the versatility and utility of wool. These include shearing demos that reveal the skill and precision involved in wool harvesting, as well as spinning and knitting machine demonstrations that illustrate the journey from raw fiber to finished textile. Additional presentations will explore the innovative uses of wool in insulation and garment care, emphasizing its importance in sustainable living and fashion.
The festival closes on Sunday with more intimate farm tours and a charity run & ride through the beautiful Karoo Koppies, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to community and sustainability.
Beyond the wool and festivities, the Karoo Winter Wool Festival stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of wool in the region, tracing back to the arrival of the first Merino sheep by Robert Gordon in 1789. This historical context not only enriches the festival’s significance, but also celebrates the continued innovation and excellence in the South African wool industry.
For more information visit www.karoowinterwoolfestival.com