Tzaneener’s take on Tavern Tour: The full story
The walls of social judgements and divides were broken down, and real 'Ubuntu' spirit was shown between all that attended.
One of the most popular events on Tzaneen’s social calendar took place on the evening of Wednesday, May 16.
The annual Tavern Tour, an initiative by the Tzaneen Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with SAB, did not disappoint.
The experience was liberating for all who joined, with one attendee explaining that for a lady to drink out of a ‘lengongolo’ (Quart) is said to be ‘lekompo’ (uncivilised) in some cultures.
Maybe this is usually the accepted truth, but at the Tavern Tour, the walls of social judgements and divides were broken down, and real ‘Ubuntu’ spirit was shown between all that attended.
The event kicked off at W&R Tavern in Nkowankowa, a typical rural tavern, owned by the very hospitable Dina Mothabo.
Next up was Van Rooyen’s bar, owned by Johannes van Rooyen. Suitably lubricated with beer, the group mingled with locals and some dancing ensued.
Some familiar faces from W&R Tavern turned up and it soon became evident that the Tavern Tour was the talk of the town and tour goers were to be followed by a local entourage to each establishment.
At Van Rooyen’s, noise levels were getting higher and higher as the dancing and singing escalated but all was temporarily brought to an abrupt stop as the power failed and everyone was plunged into complete darkness.
For a split second, all was quiet but one voice began with ‘Olé, Olé, Olé’. Another voice joined, then another, until the tavern erupted in unison.
The lack of light wasn’t going to stop the party, instead it stoked the coals and set the atmosphere on fire.
Soon, the group moved on to a chant of ‘Shosholoza’ followed by a powerful ‘Nkosi Sekelel’ iAfrika’.
Next the group was rounded up to move onto Chokes Tavern before ending up in Bona Pub, known to locals as ‘Mzansi’.
The purpose of the tour was to build bridges between our communities and to expose Tzaneen residents to the treasures in our neighbouring villages.
Thanks goes to Eddie, Bernard, Hendrik and the rest of the team from SAB for escorting the group and ensuring the event went smoothly and fun was had by all.
Appreciation and thanks is also extended to the tavern owners who greeted the rowdy bunch with open arms and welcomed everyone into their establishments.
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