20th MTN Splash Festival a great success
18 May 2010
The 20th MTN Nelson Mandela Bay Splash Festival took place over the Easter Weekend from 2 to 5 April 2010 at Hobie Beach.
Even the ever changing weather conditions could not deter people from coming down and taking part in the festivities throughout the weekend. This year’s festival proved to be bigger and better than ever before with a variety of performers, stalls, water spots, a marvellous fireworks display and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.
The tremendous success of this year’s festival may be a result of the diversity in not only the performers but also in the activities and stalls on offer. A new addition to the festival this year was the lifestyle marquee, selling organic produce, healing crystals, health and beauty products, natural crafts, hand crafted jewellery and other products all focusing on the quality of life and healthy living.
There were 190 stalls at this year’s festival, all of which were screened through very strict criteria to ensure a higher standard and improved variety. A Popular stall section was the food village which sold both delicious local and delightful international cuisine. Other ever popular stalls included the crafts, clothing and jewellery stores. Many stalls, especially those in the lifestyle marquee, had to restock after just the first day, proving just how successful the festival was.
Performers were selected through an audition process, ensuring that the best local talent would be showcased over the weekend. Performances certainly did not disappoint and consistently drew in large crowds. The variety was certainly appreciated with performers ranging from traditional African and Indian dancers to hip hop and belly dancing, as well as clown acts, singing and comedy performances. There were also a number of competitions including the Bay FM search for a DJ and sports such as the World Cup Surf Ski race, the World Inflatable Boat Championships and a volleyball tournament. The water sports programme this year was tremendously successful with the fields including international competitors for the first time.
The highlight of the festival for many was Mango Groove’s performance on the final day. The performance kicked off their Big World Party national tour. Feelings of nostalgia filled the air as the band remembered playing at the very first Splash Festival 20 years ago.
The festival proved to be a tremendous success yet again and a fun filled weekend was had by all.
Please wait!
