Mohalenyane Phakela
ORGANISERS of the Afriski Winterfest whose fourth edition begins today Afriski Mountain Resort in Butha Buthe district have promised fireworks as they mark the beginning of ski and snowboarding season.
The festival runs until Sunday while the season will be officially closed by another event scheduled for 23 to 26 August 2018 at the same venue in the highlands of Lesotho.
Peter Peyper, Afriski’s operations director said all the preparations are on course for today’s opening.
“We are excited to welcome both local and international visitors to experience one of Lesotho’s best kept secrets; snow as well as the hospitality and Southern Africa’s most unique music festival,” Peter Peyper said.
The season opener will boast various performances from the likes of Jack Parrow, Rubber Duc, Gunshot Blue, 4am, Sean Hayz, Will Rayz, Simone Govender, Tony Bala, Lizard, Blacksparrow and DJ Wags. Lesotho’s Mocheques and DJ Davertz will also be part of the line-up.
The star-studded line-up will be rocking the four Afriski stages like the Unplugged Stage “which is the ultimate and most intimate stage as patrons are able to get up close and personal with the artistes and enjoy the fireplace, the wine and the amazing warmth of hospitality”.
“Other performances will be on the Hot Box Stage – Gondola – which is an indoor stage set up for an intimate but crazy music experience. The Cooler Box Stage will provide the ultimate outdoor DJ setup while bands will perform on the main stage.”
Afriski Winterfest is regarded as one of Southern Africa’s most unique music festival experiences.
With the highlands already experiencing snow, revellers are set to experience a peculiar setting where festival goers will be surrounded by snow. The snow themed music festival appeals not only to heavy festival goers but also to ski enthusiasts and snowboarders alike.
The festival’s co-founder, Alex Torrao, describes it as one fiesta which will have patrons on their feet throughout.
“Winterfest is back and this year we hope to be the opening and headline act to your winter in Southern Africa.
“From the fun and authentic pop-folk hybrid sound that is Rubber Duc, or the deep, funky soul of DJ Mocheques and in your face Afrikaans swagger of Jack Parow. Whatever stage, whatever day, Winterfest 2018 will have you on your feet,” Torrao said.
The closing festival will feature artistes such as Tresor, Gangs of Ballet, Abby Nurock, Blow Trio, Tashy D’agrela, Freddy L, Slippery When Wet, Jerry and The Bandits, 4am, Sean Hayz, Lizard, Blacksparrow, Mocheques and DJ Wags.
Every Winterfest package comes inclusive with a three-day festival pass, skiing and snowboard lessons as well as gear rental.
The resort also offers a variety of accommodation options tailored to every party goer. It caters for backpackers, a shared room with bunk beds, sleeping up to 92 people and boasting a young, energetic and communal atmosphere. For larger groups, there are luxury chalets, lodges and apartments.
