The vibrant coastal town of Hermanus will be hosting its annual FynArts Festival from 6 to 16 June 2025. The festival is an exuberant celebration of the arts, culture, and creativity, featuring a programme brimming with must-see performances, captivating talks, and immersive experiences that promise to uplift and inspire.
Perfectly positioned in the heart of Hermanus along the iconic cliff path overlooking Walker Bay, The Marine Hotel is an ideal base for festivalgoers. Located within walking distance of many FynArts venues, art galleries, and events, the hotel offers luxurious accommodation at a special festival rate from R4 367 per room per night, including full breakfast (quote ‘FynArts’ when booking). For a truly memorable stay, guests can choose a sea-facing room, and with whale season in full swing by June, guests might even spot southern right whales from the comfort of your room.
The 2025 edition of FynArts is set to be the most dynamic since the festival started 13 years ago, featuring a powerful mix of rising stars, returning favourites, and an exciting roster of new talent. Four major performances will take place over the opening weekend (6–8 June), including the classical music Opening Concert; the Strauss Bicentenary Concert to celebrate 200 years of Richard Strauss conducted by the acclaimed Richard Cock; Cape Ballet Africa presenting striking extracts from SALT; and the choral experience Songs of Praise.
The energy continues for the full ten days with an eclectic music programme featuring jazz, classical, cabaret, and contemporary styles, including Wine, Times and Other Tastings, a unique multisensory journey through South African history blending storytelling, music, food, and wine.
Festivalgoers can also look forward to a stellar theatre lineup including Blonde Poison, starring Fiona Ramsay; Mission Improvable – featuring Cape Town’s best-loved improv troupe; and Round of Applause Reloaded, a sharp and witty performance by Mariann Thamm.
The ever-popular Strauss & Co Series of Presentations returns with fresh insights and powerful conversations while other highlights include Frank Kilbourn and Charles Shields of Everard Read discussing the South African art scene. This year also marks the debut of a fresh, early-morning current affairs series called Wake Up with the Daily Maverick; live broadcasts by Fine Music Radio, from the Burgundy Restaurant; and a panel discussion presented by Fine Music Radio themed Classics and Jazz in Conversation.
The 2025 workshop programme is more diverse than ever, with opportunities to explore ceramics, photography, drumming, writing, and culinary arts. New this year, debut authors will take the spotlight in discussions about their just-published works, ranging from fiction and memoir to speculative and dystopian themes.
As always, the festival’s culinary component remains a major draw. Attendees can enjoy chef demonstrations, hands-on cooking classes, and gourmet tastings that bring together the best of the Overberg’s food and wine scene. Another highlight of the FynArts festival, a series of three Wine Encounters will be presented at The Marine Hotel from 9 to 11 June, with the accent on the winners of the Cap Classique Challenge; the finest from KWV; and a masterclass on wine appreciation.
Throughout the festival, guests are invited to relax in The Marine’s Sun Lounge, where stunning ocean views pair perfectly with coffee, drinks, Afternoon Tea, an All-Day Lunch Menu, and comforting Winter Warmer Specials. For a full dining experience, the hotel’s Pavilion Restaurant – open to residents and non-residents alike – serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner crafted by head chef Oelof Vorster, showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Overberg.
See hermanusfynarts.co.za.
Book FynArts tickets via Webtickets, Hermanus Tourism, the FynArts Gallery, or at Pick n Pay outlets nationwide.
