Time to treat moms

Concert at the zoo, music at the theatre, fine dining in the nature reserve- there is plenty to do on Mothers’ Day.
THERE are loads of events across the city where moms can enjoy Mothers’ Day, including concerts and special lunches.

Catch Goldfish at the Johannesburg Country ClubCatch Goldfish at the Johannesburg Country ClubAs always, the zoo, in association with Talk Radio 702 and retail chain Spar, will host its Mothers’ Day concert. The 21st of these annual concerts takes place on Sunday, 13 May.

Over the past two decades, the concert has become a highlight on the city’s entertainment calendar and attracts families from all corners of Joburg and beyond. Last year, more than 10 000 people came to picnic on the lawns and enjoy the sounds of the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra.

The orchestra is back again this year, under the baton of the renowned orchestra leader and conductor, Richard Cock. Accompanying the orchestra will be the Mzansi Youth Choir, Joseph Clark and Nomfundo Xaluva.

The concert will be hosted by Talk Radio 702 presenters, and people will be able to meet their favourite presenters. However, the zoo ask people to note that balls, balloons, vuvuzelas, roller skates, loud whistles, anything that makes a loud and sudden noise, fires and fireworks are not allowed. This is to protect the wildlife.

Tickets for the concert cost R55 and R34 for pensioners; children under three years old enter for free. Gates open at 9 am.

Across town at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City there is a gospel extravaganza known as the Gospel in Me. Musicians such as singer Kelly Khumalo, dancer and singer Zakes Bantwini, The Soil and Kholeka will perform.

The show takes place at 8pm and tickets are available at Computicket for R120. You can also book at the Lyric Theatre Box Office on 011 248 5000.

Yet another concert taking place on Mothers’ Day is the Party in the Park at the Johannesburg Country Club. Dance and electronica group Goldfish, which scooped eight South Africa Music Awards – Samas – in 2009, will keep the entertainment up while families enjoy some quality time together.

Thaba Ya Batswana is offering lunch for momsThaba Ya Batswana is offering lunch for momsOther entertainers on the day are Chiano Sky and Emily Bruce, and DJs Tomorrow and Justin Miller will be spinning the discs. No alcohol is allowed at the venue as there will be a full bar available and a food market with cheeses, biltong, dips, crepes, cupcakes, hot dogs, burgers and wraps available.

Tickets are R150 for adults and R70 for children under the age of 13. Parking tickets are R50.

For those moms who prefer spending some time in the countryside, Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to take them. There will be a Mother’s Day Buffet Lunch, to be enjoyed in the serenity of the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve.

Families are invited to enjoy some mouth-watering food while drinking in the lovely scenery.

The Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel and Spa is on Impala Road, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. Booking for lunch is R200; doors will open at 12.30pm. For more information call 011 959 0706 or email foh@tyb.co.za.

Mothers’ Day is an annual celebration honouring mothers and celebrating motherhood, maternal bonds and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world, yet most commonly in March, April or May. In South Africa, it is always on the second Sunday in May.