Potjie Festival Brings Unique Smells and Sounds
RUSK - If you were driving down Farm to Market Road 343 this weekend just outside the city of Rusk, and you didn't look for the sign you may have missed it.
Down this dirt road was a festival like no other.
The smell of spices filled the air, and hundreds of friendly people gathered who spoke with an accent not too common around East Texas.
This camp ground was the site for the 9th annual Texas Potjie festival where dozens of South Africans now living in the states came together to celebrate their heritage through traditional food and activities.
Yvonne Reinhardt and her husband started the festival almost ten years ago.
The idea originated out of a tradition they have.
Each Thanksgiving, the couple would invite newcomers from South Africa to their house to welcome them to the States.
Eventually they decided to switch the date of the event from Thanksgiving to Labor Day.
Every family packs all their camping gear, food, and most importantly their potjie otherwise known as dutch oven pots a must for South African cooking.
Inger & I & Family had a wonderful time at the feastival, this was our first despite having been in Texas since 1997. We can kick ourselves for missing the others.
Will definitely be back next year. Thanks to the Organizers and camp staff who made our stay exciting and delightful.
Bert Stoltz
2 months agoWhat a great idea this is, keeps up contact with people from the old country and a lot of fun I'm sure.
Don't forget the Springboks....Rugby world champions are on the move
M Dunn
2 months agoMy family and friends had a awesome time at the festival. Ivone & Fred thank you very much.
WE have only been in the States for approximately 8 months but I felt more at home than I would actually feel if I were in South Africa.
We are counting down the days for next year. Only 364 days to go.
Again thank you very much to you and all the organizers. Fantastic job.....
Hardy Boshuizen
2 months agoPost new comment