Parys gears up for town’s 150th anniversary
All events planned for 2026 will be linked to the festive celebration of Parys’ 150th anniversary.
The Free State town of Parys will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026. The Parys 150 celebrations promise more than just festivities, it’s a call to residents, businesses, artists, and visitors to unite in celebrating the town’s history.
The festivities also aim to showcase all that Parys has to offer. Visitors will be invited to explore the town’s tourism attractions – from the iconic Vaal River to the unique businesses and arts galleries.
Economic growth is also at the heart of the anniversary, with plans to promote investment and development across the tourism, arts, culture, adventure, and community sectors.
Diverse Event Themes:
The Parys 150 calendar will have events throughout the year reflecting the town’s character and diversity:
- Adventure: The Vaal River will be in the centre of the celebrations, but apart from river-focused activities, other adventure activities will also be highlighted, including hiking, mountain biking, and more—as well as the launch of the town’s own Crater Camino.
- Businesses: Local entrepreneurs can shine at expos. There will be networking opportunities and workshops, focuss on agricultural innovation, and investment opportunities.
- Community: The community will be involved with various fun activities such as street festivals, neighbourhood projects, educational programmes, picnics, and movie nights.
- Culinary Exploits: Food fairs, wine tastings, chef demonstrations, and culinary competitions will give both a traditional and local cuisine experience to those visiting the town.
- Heritage Celebrations: Celebrating Parys’ rich history, exhibitions, storytelling events, historical tours, and commemorative publications are planned for 2026
- Nature: Eco-tourism initiatives, wetland tours, birdwatching, guided hikes, and conservation projects are planned.
- Performing Arts: This is an excellent opportunity for musicians and dancers to show their talent, and for local theatre productions and poetry evenings to be staged. Art exhibitions, public murals, open studios, and craft markets will display the creativity of local artists as Parys is famous for its many art-related activities.
- Sport: Tournaments, fun runs, and friendly competitions will encourage participation for all ages.
Event Calendar:
- To make sure residents and visitors can plan and attend the festive activities, list your events in advance for 2026. This can be done online at www.parysinfo.co.za or by visiting the Parys Info & Tourism office in person, Monday to Friday, 08:30-16:30.
- The office at 85 Breë Street offers guidance for organisers and can facilitate collaboration between groups. You can also phone the office on 056 811 4000/067 278 2860 or email info@parysinfoandtourism. A dedicated coordinator at the Parys Info and Tourism office will update the event calendar.
- The success of the Parys 150 celebrations will rely on the enthusiastic involvement of the entire community.
- Residents: All residents are welcome to suggest projects, or get involved with celebration events, for example, by offering your garden for events, or by participating and assisting with the planning of a festive event.
- Farmers: Farmers are encouraged to host open days, agri-tours, or local food markets.
- Businesses: Businesses can partner for promotions, street banners, sponsored activities, or theme-created products to specifically celebrate the town. Late-night shopping initiatives and lighting the streets with fairy lights are also some of the ideas to create a festive atmosphere.
- Artists and performers are encouraged to assist with shows, creative workshops, painting of murals on selected buildings, or to display their work around town.
The French Connection: In tribute to the town’s French-inspired name, the colours red, white, and blue will feature prominently throughout the anniversary year, while “French Connection” days will see the town dressed up for themed food, music, and festivities.
Let us celebrate Parys in 2026!