Taalmonument’s first Full Moon Picnic on the horizon

A delightful spring evening on the picturesque Paarl Mountain is the perfect place to celebrate the Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument’s (ATM’s) Full Moon Picnic on Friday, 27 October 2023.

The picnics are very popular with local residents and tourists, who especially enjoy the sunset, beautiful gardens and incomparable view of the mountains, valleys and peninsula. Guests can come anytime between 17:00 and 22:00, and have a look at the monument which is an exceptional, symbol-laden sculpture. A free guided tour to explain all of this, takes place at 18:30. Visitors are also encouraged to explore the gardens and temporary exhibitions; there are outdoor games and playgrounds for children. Ample safe parking is available for free.

In support of the Centre for Astronomical Heritage’s project to promote indigenous names for full moons in Southern Africa, this picnic is dedicated to the Whale Moon – it refers to the fact that this once very endangered species comes to calve at the South African coast at this time of year. Many indigenous names, such as Walvis Bay and UMngenga, refer to the appearance of the whales.

Guests are welcome to bring their own picnics and drinks (no glass) or to order picnic baskets in advance at the 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.

The picnic series is in aid of ‘Let’s Read!’, the ATM’s literacy project for children, and therefore picnic-goers are invited to donate new or second-hand children’s books in support. 

Tickets are R40 per adult, R10 for SA students, pensioners and children, and FREE for children under 6 years as well as holders of annual permits. They are available from Computicket or at the gate, and no booking is required. More on the Centre for Astronomical Heritage at cfah.org.za/fullmoon. The next Full Moon Picnics are on 14 November and then 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 numerous resources for school and research projects. Annual permits are available at only R120 for individuals or R220 per family, which includes unlimited access to the ATM, bistro and Full Moon Picnics. The bistro offers delicious food and beautiful views daily; contact them via diesuikerkan.co.za or 082 216 2510.