Spectacular show above the Taalmonument
Dazzling stargazing picnic focuses on 47 Tucanae
Residents and visitors will get to know the stunning starry sky – specifically the sparkling star cluster 47 Tucanae – up close during the Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM’s) stargazing picnic on Paarl Mountain on SATURDAY, 13 DECEMBER 2025. It promises to be a festive evening in a breathtaking setting, with a spectacular sunset, free admission to the iconic sculpture and the knowledge that the evening supports a good cause.
In addition, the Orion Observation Group (OOG) takes guests on a journey through the universe with their free telescopes and infectious enthusiasm. 47 Tucanae seduces thanks to the astonishing density of stars that sparkle like a glittering jewel in the night sky. This giant star cluster, located about 16 000 light-years away in the constellation Tucanae, contains millions of stars. Through a telescope, it explodes into a spectacle of light points that captures the imagination. It is a cosmic window into the ancient universe, a place where stars were squeezed together billions of years ago.
Gates open at 17:00, after which visitors can soak in the stunning views over the valleys, mountains and the peninsula before turning their gaze skywards through the telescopes from sunset until 22:00. Guests are encouraged to explore the grounds, exhibitions and the symbol-rich monument. A free guided tour takes place at 18:30 to explain the history and meaning of the monument. For young stargazers, outdoor games and playgrounds are available.
Picnickers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks (no glass). Remember to pack warm clothing and binoculars; safe parking is available. The picnic series supports the ATM’s literacy project Let’s Read!, which aims to help children discover the joy of reading. Guests are encouraged to donate new or second-hand children’s books.
Tickets available at quicket.co.za or the gate* for only
- R55 for adults
- R15 for SA students, pensioners and children 18 and under
- FREE for children under 6 years
* For the gate entrance advance reservation via 076 017 6026 (WA) or kommunikasie@taalmuseum.co.za is essential to ensure enough telescopes. Should the weather not play along, the picnic will unfortunately be cancelled – call 073 853 3100 or 083 544 6510 on the day for weather updates. Pre-purchased tickets can be transferred or refunded. The next stargazing picnics are on 17 January 2026 (Orion), 13 February (Jupiter) and 14 March (Jewel Box).
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.