28 – 30 August 2026 | Bathurst, Eastern Cape
The countdown has begun! The picturesque village of Bathurst is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors for the Bathurst Country Affair, taking place from 28 – 30 August 2026. Renowned as one of the Eastern Cape’s premier country lifestyle festivals, this year’s event is bigger, bolder and more exciting than ever before.
With over 60 carefully hand-picked, upmarket exhibitors showcasing exceptional artisan products, décor, fashion, gourmet treats, homeware, gifts and handcrafted treasures, visitors can once again expect a shopping experience unlike any other.
But that’s just the beginning…
Five Exciting New Experiences
This year’s festival introduces five major additions designed to elevate the Bathurst Country Affair experience.
The Cask & Cuisine – The Village Green
A brand-new destination for food and beverage lovers, The Cask & Cuisine promises an unforgettable sensory experience. Relax in the beautiful chill areas with live music while enjoying:
- Premium wine tastings
- Craft botanical gin tastings
- An exciting range of craft beers
- Refreshing rum slushies
- Coffee cocktails
- Gourmet artisanal cuisine
- Delicious charcuterie boards
It’s the perfect place to unwind, meet friends and soak up the festival atmosphere.
Settlers Square
Under the magnificent ancient trees that have watched over Bathurst for generations, Settlers Square comes alive with exceptional craft and artisanal vendors, a vibrant food truck village, shaded relaxation areas and live entertainment, creating one of the festival’s most inviting spaces.
The Grand Lounge at The Historic Pig
Adding yet another exciting venue, The Grand Lounge at The Historic Pig will showcase an impressive selection of premium exhibitors in an elegant setting that perfectly complements Bathurst’s rich heritage.
The Culinary Challenge Returns
Back by popular demand, The Culinary Challenge will once again see talented home cooks go head-to-head with professional chefs at venues throughout the village. It’s guaranteed to entertain, inspire and delight food enthusiasts.
Three Valleys Running Wild
Trail run time for the whole family – 5km, 10km and 15km trails. The event takes place at Three Valleys and is one of their annual fundraisers for the big cat sanctuary. To find out more and get your tickets head to www.threevalleys.co.za!
Festival Favourites Return
No Bathurst Country Affair would be complete without the much-loved signature events that have become legendary over the years.
Visitors can once again take part in or cheer on competitors in:
- The Mystery Box Challenge
- The Pineapple Throwing Competition
- The Bokdrol Spoeg Championship
- The ever-popular Drag Race
These uniquely Bathurst experiences continue to draw crowds and create unforgettable memories.
Food, Wine, Music & Entertainment
Food lovers will once again have the opportunity to enjoy popular Wine Tastings hosted by Chef Ray Hanekom-Barnard, while music and theatre lovers are in for a real treat.
Rock band Who Invited Karen? will have audiences on their feet at The Theatre at The Pig, while theatre-goers can enjoy two outstanding live productions:
- A hilarious drag show, ‘Polly Ticks”
- ‘Did I shave my legs for this?’ A powerful one-woman performance written and presented by Corinne Willoughby at Pike’s Post, The Ploughman Pub.
Adding another special highlight to the weekend, the magnificent Saeculum Aureum Choir returns to perform inside the beautiful St John’s Church, promising an unforgettable musical experience.
So Much More Than a Market
The Bathurst Country Affair has evolved into far more than a shopping event. Throughout the village, visitors will discover demonstrations, entertainment, food experiences, local attractions, historic venues and hidden gems around every corner.
In fact, there’s simply too much to experience in one weekend. A lovely problem to have!
The full festival programme will be released shortly on the Bathurst Country Affair Facebook page—and it’s one you’ll definitely want to study before you arrive.
Supporting Local
Bathurst’s local businesses are preparing to roll out the red carpet, with many offering exclusive weekend promotions, specials and unique experiences for festival visitors. The entire village looks forward to extending its warm country hospitality to guests from near and far.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Bathurst Country Affair would not be possible without the generous support of our valued sponsors:
- My Pond Hotel
- Stenden University
- Royal St Andrews Hotel
- The Farm Bathurst
- Bathurst Agricultural Society
- Bathurst Riding Club
- Three Valleys
- Pick n Pay
- Sotheby’s
- Multi Security
Their commitment helps make this exceptional community event possible.
Make a Weekend of It!
Whether you’re passionate about artisan shopping, gourmet food, fine wine, live music, theatre, family fun or simply soaking up the charm of one of South Africa’s most historic villages, the Bathurst Country Affair 2026 has something for everyone.
Bring your friends. Bring your family. Come hungry, come curious—and come prepared for an unforgettable weekend.
Bathurst Country Affair
28 – 30 August 2026
www.thebca.co.za
Visit and follow our Facebook page – Bathurst Country Affair
Enquiries – Tanya Schenk – Founder & Convenor – 0787190914
One weekend simply isn’t enough.
