Nestled on the stunning Garden Route coastline, Plettenberg Bay (affectionately known as ‘Plett’ by the locals) buzzes year‑round with festivals, markets and sports events – perfect for visitors seeking variety, nature and community flair.
Annual highlights on the Plettenberg Bay Events & Festivals calendar
Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival (late April)
A lively springtime celebration showcasing regional wines, bubbly, olive oils and gourmet food stalls. Expect live music, tasting tents and a convivial atmosphere as locals and visitors mingle outdoors.
Plett ARTS Festival (early October)
This annual arts extravaganza runs for about 10 days, spotlighting theatre, music, poetry, visual installations and panel talks. Held across venues in town, it draws community artists and touring performers alike.
Otter Trail & Otter Race Week (early October)
Trail runners unite for multi-distance races along the iconic Otter Trail and coastline around Robberg Nature Reserve – scenic, rugged and celebrating both challenge and camaraderie.
Wedge Classic & Ocean Events (July)
The Wedge Classic is a popular skimboard/surfing showdown on Wedge Beach in early July, usually part of a broader Ocean Festival weekend with water-based fun and coastal culture.
Bitou Birding Festival (late October)
Nature lovers will flock to this birding festival, offering guided walks, workshops, photography sessions and guest speakers – an immersive dive into Plett’s rich coastal and estuary birdlife.
Summer & Holiday Highlights (December–January)
The festive season in Plett is alive with markets, Sunday ‘fun’ events, beach concerts, family picnics and fishing competitions. Expect Carols at Central Beach, holiday markets, paddle challenges and community beach parties.
Every Saturday: Harkerville Parkrun & Markets
Head out to Harkerville Market just off the N2 for a weekly free 5 km timed run at 8am, followed by fresh local produce, craft stalls and live music at the Harkerville Market itself.
Why visit Plettenberg Bay for events?
From gourmet wine tastings to ocean sports, trail runs, birding and arts performances, Plett offers an inviting blend of experience and environment. Whether you’re here for the festivals or the outdoor scenery, there’s always something engaging happening along this beloved stretch of the Garden Route.
So what’s happening in Plettenberg Bay and surrounds in the upcoming months?
Here’s your Plettenberg Bay Events & Festivals calendar:
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Your Plettenberg Bay Events & Festivals listed here?
If your event is quirky, fresh, or adds something new to the Garden Route and Klein Karoo scene (and you don’t have the budget for paid marketing 😉 ), we’d love to hear from you. Just email us at news@destinationgardenroute.co.za at least 4 weeks in advance.
What to include:
- What makes your event special;
- Date(s), time and location;
- Ticket price (if applicable);
- Website and/or Social media links; and
- Quality hi-res images or video.
If it’s a fit, our team will be in touch.