With entertainment, gifts and picnics for the whole family

To relieve the pressure on him, Father Christmas has again decided to hand out presents during the popular December full moon picnic at the iconic Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM) on Saturday, 16 December 2023.

A beautiful evening with children’s entertainment, playgrounds and outdoor games for the young ones – as well as a sunset followed by a full moon and Santa – promises to transform the day into an unforgettable event. As the picnic series is in aid of ‘Let’s Read!’, the ATM’s literacy project, visitors are encouraged to donate a new or used children’s book.

The gates already open at 16:00, after which children have their faces painted for free and participate in craft activities from 17:00 to 19:00. For the older children there are also skills activities. Guests are encouraged to explore the surroundings and the symbol-laden sculpture – a free guided tour takes place at 18:00 to explain everything. At 19:30 Santa should make his appearance to hand out presents, so parents should please hand in their children’s clearly marked gifts by 18:30 in his Christmas stocking in the Visitor Centre.

Guests are welcome to bring their own picnics and drinks (no glass) or to order picnic baskets in advance at Suikerkan via 082 216 2510 or info@diesuikerkan.co.za – this bistro will also sell refreshments during the event. Dress warmly and bring a torch; ample safe parking is available. The event will last until 22:00.

Admission is R40 per adult, R10 for SA students, pensioners and children. It’s FREE for children under six, holders of annual permits and Drakenstein residents with valid library cards. Tickets are available from Computicket or the gate, and no reservations are necessary. For more information, contact Stefanie Rasztabiga on 021 863 0543 or kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za. The next full moon picnics are on 26 January, 23 February and 22 March in 2024.

  • For more information on all the other exciting events, concerts and courses at the Taalmonument, call 021 872 3441/863 0543, visit taalmonument.co.za or follow them on Facebook. The website also offers virtual tours of the monument and museum, information in six languages ​​on the symbolism of the Taalmonument as well as many interesting articles on Afrikaans, multilingualism and the institution’s past, present and future. There are also many resources for school and research projects. Annual permits are available at only R120 for individuals or R220 per family, which includes access to all full moon picnics. The ATM Koffiehuis offers delicious food and beautiful views daily.