About Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein, founded in 1846, serves as capital of the Free State and as South Africa's judicial capital, home to the Supreme Court of Appeal. Known as the City of Roses for its rose gardens, it also carries deep political history: the African National Congress was founded nearby in Waaihoek in January 1912. Naval Hill, in the middle of the city, combines a game reserve, a giant Nelson Mandela statue and the Naval Hill Planetarium with views across the whole city. Rugby runs deep here too, with the Free State Cheetahs playing their home Currie Cup matches at Toyota Stadium in front of passionate local crowds, and the University of the Free State giving the city a large student population.

Bloemfontein's week kicks off with Betway Premiership: Siwelele FC vs Chippa United at Toyota Stadium on 25 August, followed by two nights of culture: Sankofa: An Experience of African Musical Entanglements at the Odeion Auditorium and WAPA 20th Anniversary Celebration at Bains Lodge, both on 27 August. Art lovers can join the Artist Walkabout with Emma Willemse | 29 August at 12:00 at Oliewenhuis Art Museum, while the weekend closes with 4 DA STREETS FEST at the Mangaung Outdoor Sports Centre.