Celebrate Hout Bay’s heritage at the Carnival and Fish Derby

The vibrant coastal town of Hout Bay is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year—the Hout Bay Carnival and Fish Derby. Running from December 13 to 16, the four-day festival promises an exciting blend of family-friendly activities, local culture, and community spirit. The highlight of the event is the historic Fish Derby, a beloved competition that brings together fishing enthusiasts and locals in a celebration of Hout Bay’s rich fishing heritage.

A Historic Tradition Celebrated

The Fish Derby, which takes place on Sunday, December 15, is the heart of the festivities. Starting bright and early at 07:00, participants will head out on the waters to catch the biggest fish, with the final boats expected to return for the weigh-in by 15:00. This competition is an evolution of the Snoek Derby, which has been a staple in the town for over 40 years. While the original event focused on catching the region’s famous snoek fish, the Fish Derby now invites anglers to catch a range of fish, all in the spirit of friendly competition and tradition.

The event’s organisers, the Hout Bay Harbour Carnival and Fish Derby (HBHC&FD), have planned for every contingency. Should weather conditions not be ideal for the competition on Sunday, the derby will be rescheduled for Monday, ensuring that every participant has a chance to compete.

More Than Just Fishing

While the Fish Derby remains the central attraction, the Carnival itself offers a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. Live entertainment will fill the air throughout the weekend, with local musicians and performers creating a lively atmosphere. For the younger crowd, there will be plenty of children’s activities, including funfair rides and interactive games that promise to keep families entertained.

Local food and craft stalls will line the carnival grounds, offering everything from artisanal goods to delicious street food. A Seafood Potjiekos Competition will also take place, showcasing the region’s culinary skills and love for seafood. Visitors can expect to find a wide variety of seafood dishes, from traditional South African potjiekos (a slow-cooked stew) to fresh, grilled catches straight from the ocean.

For those seeking a more relaxing experience, boat rides will provide a scenic view of Hout Bay’s stunning coastline, while offering a unique perspective of the fishing community that calls the bay home. These boat rides are not only a fun activity but also an opportunity to learn more about the area’s maritime history.

Celebrating Local Culture and Community

Roscoe Jacobs, chair of HBHC&FD, explained that the event is deeply rooted in the legacy of the area’s past fishing derbies. “This event is built on the legacy of past fishing derbies and aims to celebrate the local fishing community and culture,” Jacobs said. The Fish Derby, like its predecessors, is about more than just fishing—it’s an opportunity to honour Hout Bay’s close-knit, fishing-based community and its ongoing importance to the region’s economy and way of life.

The carnival is expected to attract between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors over the course of the weekend, underscoring the event’s growing popularity. With the new Fish Derby, organisers hope to continue the legacy of the Snoek Derby while also drawing fishing enthusiasts from across the country. In partnership with the Atlantic Boat Club, the event aims to offer a platform for both seasoned anglers and newcomers to come together and celebrate their shared passion.

Supporting Local Initiatives

Beyond the festivities, the event is also focused on giving back to the community. A raffle will be held throughout the weekend, with prizes that include a night’s stay at the luxurious Tintswalo Atlantic and various vouchers. All proceeds from ticket sales and the raffle will go towards covering the costs of the event and supporting long-term community projects.

Organisers have outlined a vision for the event that includes the promotion of socio-economic initiatives that benefit local children, youth, women, and people with disabilities. These initiatives are designed to ensure that the carnival and Fish Derby leave a lasting positive impact on the Hout Bay community, fostering growth and opportunity for all residents.

A Destination for Tourism and Business

The Hout Bay Carnival and Fish Derby is also an opportunity to showcase the town as a tourism and business destination. The event highlights not only the town’s fishing heritage but also its potential for growth in other sectors. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant community, Hout Bay has long been a hidden gem in Cape Town, and events like the Fish Derby help raise its profile on a larger stage.

Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman, a local resident, or a first-time visitor, the Hout Bay Carnival and Fish Derby offers something for everyone. With a weekend full of entertainment, food, culture, and competition, it’s an event that promises to celebrate the spirit and heritage of this beloved coastal town.