Latest news with #HighlandGathering
The Citizen
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
One day to go for the Highland Gathering
ARE YOU ready for the Highland Gathering? Have you brushed up on your Highland fling? Iron your kilts, brush up on your bag-piping and bring your family to Hutchison Park for the event of the year on May 3. Also read: What to expect at the Highland Gathering this year Local visitors and those from far and wide get a wee break from the regular day-to-day for a full day of whims and wonders of Scottish heritage, mixed in with Amanzimtoti charm. For the great Highland bagpipe, there can be no rest between notes, and as such it takes passion and fierce pride to echo the power of the pipes. The Amanzimtoti Lions Club introduced some of the pipe bands whose dynamic performances underscore the Highland Gathering. The Johannesburg-based African Skye Pipe Band returns to the greens of Hutchison Park, competing as not one, but two powerful units in both Grades Three and Four. Their dynamic performances bridge the gap between African roots and Scottish tradition. If you hear thunder on the horizon, it's probably African Skye warming up. With roots dating back to 1943, the Jeppe Pipe Band holds the title of Johannesburg's oldest school pipe band. The band plays formal parades, moving memorials, live concerts and community events, each echoing the power of pipes that echo through generations. Also read: This year's Highland Gathering promises family fun South Africa's oldest pipe band, the Drums and Pipes of the Cape Town Highlanders, was founded in 1889, with a legacy rooted in military tradition, much like those of the Highland Games in Scotland's rich history. The band is made up of South African Reserve Force volunteers and civilians. Most notably, the band has played for Queen Elizabeth II's 90th birthday. Durban Caledonian Society Pipe Band is a relatively new band, however, they have been a regular sight and sound at concerts, events and competitions across the country. Their Grade Four band will be collaborating with the Pietermaritzburg Pipe Band under the banner of the KZN Callies Pipe Band, making their debut performance at this year's gathering. If you'd like to listen to the powerful tunes of the bands and be a part of the spectacle, tickets for adults are R60, pensioners and learners pay R40 and entrance is free for six years and younger. Parking tickets are R30. For more information on how to purchase tickets, sponsor the event, updates or for an opportunity to win entry tickets, visit the Lions Club of Amanzimtoti – Home of the Highlands Gathering Facebook page, contact 072 767 7833 or email info@ For more South Coast Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
What to expect at the Highland Gathering this year
What to expect at the Highland Gathering this year HYPE is ballooning to an all-time high in the days leading up to the Highland Gathering on May 3. While the rains have left Hutchison Park's rugby field increasingly water-logged, visitors may well have to bring along snorkels and a wetsuit to enjoy the highly anticipated event. Also read: Counting down to the Highland Gathering Have no fear, however, as hosts, the Lions Club of Amanzimtoti, have brought the action closer to you, and made certain you will have less walking to do. The entire event is now split across the soccer field, which will facilitate the arena events, flea market, beer tents and food courts, while the cricket field will feature the pipe bands, bar, flea market, food stalls, children, outdoor and tourism stands. Arena Events: At 10:00, the Penzance Primary School Band will be playing, followed by expertly-choreographed routines by the Rhythmic Dance Studio at 10:20. An hour later, fans of head-nodding, foot-stomping beats can enjoy the talented Double Beat Drum Studio. Combat Coaching will demonstrate their tai chi display at 11:40 and Big Top Entertainment will wow spectators at 11:55. Fusion Rhythmic Gymnastics will show off their flexible moves at 12:25 and Croc World's non-venomous reptile show will have you slithering back to your seats at 12:45. The talented dancers at Fancy Feet take to the stage at 13:15 and prospective Mr and Mrs Highland Gathering contestants will strut their stuff down the runway at 13:20. Parking Public parking will be available on the Amanzimtoti Civic Centre grounds, with overspill on the open space between the river and Civic Road. Parking at Lords and Legends is exclusively for stall holders and those directly assisting with the gathering. Busses are to use the parking around the Amanzimtoti Squash Club. Where to enter The Amanzimtoti Rugby Club Across from the Amanzimtoti Civic Centre along Hutchison Road, around 50m from the T-junction with Riverside Road. Lords and Legends on the river side of the building. Want to skip the suspense? Tickets for adults are R60, pensioners and learners pay R40 and entrance is free for six years and younger. Parking tickets are R30. For more information on how to purchase tickets, sponsor the event, updates or for an opportunity to win entry tickets, visit the Lions Club of Amanzimtoti – Home of the Highlands Gathering Facebook page, contact 072 767 7833 or email info@ For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Kilt up for a day of pipes, pride at the Highland Gathering
ARE you ready for the Highland Gathering? Have you brushed up on your Highland fling? Iron your kilts, brush up on your bag-piping and bring your family to Hutchison Park for the event of the year on May 3. Visitors and those from far and wide get a wee break from the regular day-to-day for a full day of whims and wonders of Scottish heritage, mixed in with Amanzimtoti charm. For the great Highland bagpipe, there can be no rest between notes and as such, it takes passion and fierce pride to echo the power of the pipes. The Amanzimtoti Lions Club introduced some of the pipe bands whose dynamic performances underscore the Highland Gathering. The Johannesburg-based African Skye Pipe Band returns to the greens of Hutchison Park, competing as not one, but two powerful units in both Grades Three and Four. Their dynamic performances bridge the gap between African roots and Scottish tradition. If you hear thunder on the horizon, it's probably African Skye warming up. With roots dating all the way back to 1943, the Jeppe Pipe Band holds the title of Johannesburg's oldest school pipe band. The band plays formal parades, moving memorials, live concerts and community events, each echoing the power of pipes that echo through generations. South Africa's oldest pipe band, the Drums and Pipes of the Cape Town Highlanders, was founded in 1889, with a legacy rooted in military tradition, much like those of the Highland Games in Scotland's rich history. The band is made up of South African Reserve Force volunteers and civilians. Most notably, the band has played for Queen Elizabeth II's 90th birthday. Durban Caledonian Society Pipe Band is a relatively new band, however, they have been a regular sight and sound at concerts, events and competitions across the country. Their Grade Four band will be collaborating with the Pietermaritzburg Pipe Band under the banner of the KZN Callies Pipe Band, making their debut performance at this year's gathering. If you'd like to listen to the powerful tunes of the bands and be a part of the spectacle, tickets for adults are R60, pensioners and learners pay R40 and entrance is free for six years and younger. Parking tickets are R30. For more information on how to purchase tickets, sponsor the event, updates or for an opportunity to win entry tickets, visit the Lions Club of Amanzimtoti – Home of the Highlands Gathering Facebook page, contact 072 767 7833 or email info@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Chilli fest to heat up Durban North this weekend
Chilli fest to heat up Durban North this weekend The Great East Coast Chilli Festival, presented by Titanium Media South Africa (TMSA) take places on April 26 at the Northwood Crusaders Sports Club in Durban North. Also read: Counting down to the Highland Gathering Backed by title sponsor TMSA and partners Kadipore and Ultibro Farms, the festival promises another red-hot experience from 09:00 to 16:00. At the heart of the event is the adrenaline-pumping Chilli Pod Eating Championship, drawing fearless contenders from across South Africa. In 2023, competitors battled through 16 intense rounds — starting with mild jalapeños and ending with the feared Carolina Reaper, once crowned the world's hottest chilli. Last year's contest peaked at 12 rounds, and 2025's showdown is expected to be even spicier. Now firmly established as Durban's premier culinary attraction, the festival is set to welcome spice lovers, foodies, thrill-seekers, and families from all corners of the region. 'We're thrilled to present a festival that showcases Durban's vibrant culinary scene while uniting food lovers, chefs, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders,' said festival founder Nick Papadopoulos. 'This event goes beyond just flavour — it's a celebration of culture, tourism, and community spirit, made possible through our partnerships with TMSA and East Coast Radio.' Guests will also enjoy award-winning entries from the Artisanal Sauce Tasting Competition, held earlier in the week, showcasing the talents of KZN's finest chilli artisans. Festival highlights include: The Fastest Bunny Chow Eating Contest Live Chilli Cooking Demos A Dedicated Kids Zone Chill Zone for Relaxation Celebrity Appearances and Influencer Meetups High-Energy Stage Performances TMSA Director Sheetal Cross said the festival is more than just heat — it's a journey through our rich culinary heritage and a powerful driver of economic empowerment. 'By spotlighting small-scale producers and innovators, we're honouring tradition while fuelling growth across key industries like tourism, agribusiness, and hospitality.' Tickets for The Great East Coast Chilli Festival are available via Quicket, with options ranging from individual passes to family packages. For media inquiries, sponsorships, vendor applications, or competition entries, contact Nick Papadopoulos at 084 505 0113, hello@ or visit For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Counting down to the Highland Gathering
THERE are only two weeks remaining before the highly anticipated Highland Gathering touches down at Hutchison Park on May 3 and brings with it the distinctive sounds of bagpipes. While children can watch in wonder at magic, juggling and unicycling shows, brought by Big Top Entertainment, adrenaline junkies can enjoy combat coaching during the Tai Chi display. Also read: Cheerful Amanzimtoti man turns 90 Beer and music aficionados will relish their worlds colliding at the beer tents, where local musicians including Jason Hartman, Matt Gardiner, Beats Working, Wahwah Baby and Chewing the Hornet will be playing at the Highlands Tavern tent near the civic gate. On the rugby field, Piper's Bar enjoys sounds of Fire in the Jukebox, DJ Fester and Jason Andrew. Every rand raised during the Highland Gathering is funneled towards initiatives that uplift and support those in need in Amanzimtoti, directly benefitting the community. Anyone can be a sponsor and as little as R5 for a chair to larger contributions covering the cost of big tents are valued. Sponsorship opportunities are open to everyone, be it a local business, a corporate entity or a passionate individual – your support is vital in giving back to the community. Tickets for adults are R60, pensioners and learners pay R40 and entrance is free for six years and younger. Parking tickets are R30. For more information on how to purchase tickets, sponsor the event, updates or for an opportunity to win entry tickets, visit the Lions Club of Amanzimtoti – Home of the Highlands Gathering Facebook page, contact 072 767 7833 or email info@ For more South Coast Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox. Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
