Our journey started with the drive from Durban to Underberg on the Thursday late afternoon, where we were met with a hail storm which had people under trees, bridges and any form of cover; bright rainbows which seemed to end right in front of you (No pots of gold unfortunately); the ever so friendly Underberg locals at the Underberg Country Club and the inviting Splashy Fen staff and festivities as we drove into Splashy Fen farm – be happy today!
Having arrived in the dark, set up our tents (yes in the dark) we were very excited to get started and set off moving from stage to stage, food stall to food stall – thank goodness for the easy layout and handy map on the Splashy FenApp! We finally settled at main stage where Gangs of Ballet rocked it! First night a success!
Waking up to beautiful weather Friday morning, we made our way down to the river – yay for the new bridge to avoid the freezing cold waters, even though we were soon waist deep enjoying the “refreshing numbness” – hey, it keeps the drinks cold. The rest of the day was spent relaxing in the acoustic tent, Panini in hand.
Friday night was a jam packed evening, moving from the man stage for Civil twilight getting everyone amped and in the mood for the evening, then down to the Electric Boma for our Durban favourite – Veranda Panda, then back to main stage for Mango groove – who had the main stage crammed with people jumping and “Grooving- and Goodluck ending us off – what a night!
Saturday morning, a little cooler thank goodness – Sleep in! – had Marley Coffee earning their money, with lines of people desperate for their morning fix. From badminton in Splashy Country Club, Markets; a very pleasant surprise Veranda Panda session in the Red Bull van, and Bananas walking around… wait what!?, the day flashed past as another fun filled day.
Saturday night was another banger, with “the unbelievable” Xavier Rudd, then the ever so talented Jeremy loops, both owning the stage – a night to remember for sure!
Sunday was our great depression, as we had to make our way back to reality, leaving other splashy fenners with their last day – FOMO!
Thank you to the Panini Bistro, Burger Express and Willy Waffles for my reason to now need to start a fitness challenge; to Marley Coffee and Collin Showers for getting me going every morning; to the Splashy Fen Team for the great organisation, set up and amazing music; and of course to Durbanite for getting me to Splashy Fen 2016!
I met some amazing people (new and old), experienced beautiful sunsets and awesome talent – #Splashy2016 is definitely one to remember!