Run (or stroll) up a mountain for a good cause
Taalmonument invites all to evening filled with fun, picnics, and positive energy
If you’re ready to lace up your running shoes for something that truly matters, circle WEDNESDAY, 10 DECEMBER 2025, on your calendar. The Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM), together with partners Historium Trust and the Paarl Athletics Club, will once again host their popular Night Run and Fun Run on the beautiful Paarl Mountain – all in support of the Drakenstein Palliative Hospice.
This year’s event promises plenty of good cheer, breathtaking views, stalls and of course, a healthy bit of sweat. Participants can look forward to cash prizes worth thousands of rands, medals, T-shirts, fun challenges, and an atmosphere sure to warm the heart.
The 10km race, held according to the rules of Athletics South Africa and Boland Athletics, starts at 18:00 at the Taalmonument and follows an exciting and challenging route along both tar and gravel roads. The 5km word run starts at 18:15 at the Amphitheatre and is perfect for the whole family – prams and walkers are welcome. Instead of a race number, each participant registers with a fun Afrikaans word – a creative nod to language and conviviality.
Afterwards, it’s time to unwind: spread your blanket on the grass, unpack your picnic basket (no glass please) or support the food stalls, and enjoy the sunset, exhibitions, adventurous playgrounds and outdoor games under the starlit sky. The best part? Entry to the monument is free, therefore bring your family and friends along to explore this iconic tribute to one of Africa’s youngest languages.
So, put on your trainers, pack your picnic basket, and join in for a joyful, healthy evening in aid of a good cause.
- ONLINE ENTRIES ONLY via topevents.co.za by 5 DECEMBER FOR BOTH RUNS – no entries on the day
- 10km: R130–R200. Get your race card on 9 December from 09:00 to 20:00 at the Language Monument or on 10 December from 14:00 to 17:00 at the Amphitheatre. Enquiries via Lucky Mokwena at 084 826 5895 or lmokwena1@icloud.com
- 5km: R50. Get your race card/word on 10 December from 14:00 to 17:00 at the Amphitheatre. Enquiries via Stefanie Rasztabiga at 021 872 3441 or kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za
- FREE ENTRY to monument for participants and supporters
Most palliative care in South Africa is offered by private institutions. However, Drakenstein Palliative Hospice was founded as a non-governmental organisation in 1991 by a small group of volunteers to perform this critical community service. They care for an average of 250 patients with life-threatening illnesses in their homes and serve the entire Drakenstein district from Saron to Simondium, including all the towns, rural areas and informal settlements. Their care team ensures that patients and their families are provided with the best quality palliative care and die with dignity. The aim is to manage pain and suffering through early identification and thorough assessment, and to offer support on a physical, psychosocial and spiritual level. More information at drakensteinhospice.org.za or 021 872 4060.
ℹ️ See Taalmonument and Taalmuseum’s unique events, concerts and courses at
WhatsApp Instagram Facebook Nuusbrief Taalmuseum.co.za/en/whats-on
The website also offers virtual tours of the monument and museum, information in multiple languages regarding the symbolism of the Taalmonument as well as many interesting articles on Afrikaans, multilingualism and the institution’s past, present and future. There are also numerous resources for school and research projects.
👉 Annual permits are available at only R120 for individuals or R220 per family – includes unlimited access to the ATM, bistro, walking trails and full moon picnics. Call 021 872 3441.