AMANZIMTOTI is set to showcase the 53rd annual Highland Gathering this Saturday, 29 April at Hutchison Park, featuring 33 pipe bands from across the country.
The Gathering was originally adopted by the Amanzimtoti Lions Club in 1976 and it is the club’s primary fund-raising event.
Lions president Carol Botha said: “The club is overjoyed to be given recognition from the Pipe Band of Southern Africa. Because the competition is being so highly rated in South Africa, it warrants international judges, so the PBASS has awarded international recognition to the event.”
“We have the biggest turnout of pipe bands in one single day – anywhere in the world,” she added proudly.
Ireland’s Terry Tulley will judge the pipe band competition.
The Highland Gathering is a complete non-profit event and proceeds are ploughed back into funding local development activities.
Organisations which benefit from the Highland Gathering include Ethelbert Home, Jona Vaughan Home and the Amanzimtoti Child Welfare.
Market and entertainment
While the tartan-clad dancers and bands will be displaying their unique skills, visitors can shop for a variety of foods, arts and crafts at a flea market. There will be a dedicated, genuine crafts section where only bona fide, hand-made crafters will be showcasing their wares.
Entertainment includes a beauty pageant, modeling, a choice of at least 10 local music bands, as well as beer tents. There will also be a horse show in the arena.
There are still stalls available, contact John West on john.d.k.west@amanzimtotilions.org.
Big Events 365 hosting the Lifestyle Expo in conjunction with the Highlands Gathering. Visitors can expect to find interactive displays, and special Expo deals and promotions.
Exhibition space is still available in the house and garden, outdoor and leisure, as well as health and beauty categories, from as little as R680 per stall. For more information contact Big Events 365 on admin@bigevents365.co.za.
Non-profits which will be displaying what they do include Pink Drive, Amanzimtoti Trauma Unit, and the Reach for a Dream Foundation.
The Lifestyle Expo will have a dedicated kids’ zone with fun rides, games and entertainment. Geoffrey the Giraffe from Toys R Us will hand out balloons, stickers and gift bags between 10am and 11am.
Entrance fees for the Highland Gathering and Lifestyle Expo: Adults R50, students R30, R20 for pensioners and children under 10, while children under six enter for free.
Keep updated on the event on Facebook www.facebook.com/lifestyleexpoamanzimtoti.
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