In 1956, a peaceful protest march was organised by the Federation of South African Women and supported by 20,000 women who were against a proposed legislation – one that would force non-white Africans to carry an identity document at all times. The group stood for 30 minutes in silence before taking up the chant – Wathint’ Abafazi.  Wathint’imbokodo! (You‘ve touched the women, and you’ve struck a rock). Their courage led to the 9th of August becoming National Women’s Day.

Now, exactly 56 years later, there are various celebrations and activities scheduled across the country for Women’s Day. These festivities remind us how blessed we are to have such wonderful women in our lives. If you’re looking for ideas on how to spoil your special someone, keep reading and see what’s happening in your area on the 9th of August 2012.

Female cyclists have been around for decades - luckily for us, the clothing requirements have changed By radlmax (Flickr)Outdoor

  • For those who are after some healthy fun, consider joining the Women’s Day cycling event taking place in Grayton from 09:30am. It will cost R80 and be followed by a “Bubbly Brunch” at the Oak & Vigne. To book call 028-254-9037.
  • If working up a sweat is your idea of fun, then the Sanet Wentzel Memorial Women’s Day 10km Challenge in Outdshoorn is for you. Entry costs R30 for a 10km run or R15 for a 5km run. The race will start at 7am from Nostalgie B&B – call 083-500-4915 to book.

Performers

  • Rock out with the fantastic bands playing at the One Night in Cape Town show, taking place at Grand West Casino. Bands that will perform include Seether, Bullet for My Valentine, and Kongos. Tickets are available from Computicket.com, doors open at 2pm
  • Just outside of KwaZulu-Natal’s Ballito, you will find the rustic By The Way Pub. From the 9th – 12th of August they’ll be hosting the Spogweni festival at their beautiful farm. Talent such as F’N Ritz, the Jack Mantis Band, and Steve Squire will be playing. Book via Computicket.
  • If you’re a horse lover, don’t miss out on a special Lipizzaner performance at the Lipizzaner Centre in Kyalami, Gauteng. Bring along a picnic blanket and relax on the grass while you watch the ancient breed perform. Once the show is over, head indoors for a lavish lunch.

Nothing screams elegance more than a ladies only High Tea. By Prudence Styles (Flickr)

Brunches

  • Gather your girlfriends and celebrate this special day in Johannesburg by heading out for some “High Tea” at Clico Boutique Hotel.  For R175 per person you’ll experience the great atmosphere, tasty treats, and can even continue the experience by booking yourself into their stylish hotel.
  • The Sisters Incorporated group are hosting a Women’s Day Tea at the opulent Cape Grace hotel in Cape Town. It will cost R250 per person and run from 13:30 – 17:00, with plenty of pampering ideas, inspirational talks, and even a lucky draw. Call 083-360-1330 to book.

Let us know what your plans are for spoiling that special someone in your life.

Image Credits
1st Image credited to inottawa (Flickr)
2nd Image credited to radlmax (Flickr)
3rd Image credited to Prudence Styles (Flickr)