A local band here in Nelspruit sings a song with the lyrics “Paved in gold”. When one drives up the paved the road of Umbali it’s almost like excitement building up in you, whenever you there for a live concert, a wedding or special occasion. And when you see the setting sun golden rays on the road, it is paved in gold. For first time visitors you not sure what to expect, I know that’s how I felt the first time I was there – for the 1st Wine and Picnic show – you see the building, you follow the path, you park your car and you take a walk.
If you are wearing high heels it might be a little tricky while walking on the lawn but that is what is so great at Umbali. Most places are either fully paved or tarred not here; Umbali brings the sense of being on a farm somewhere, the modern day open planned farm houses. And before you think the bushes and weeds are standing ten feet tall around be rest assured that alien plant species gets eliminated the minute they show their leaves. The garden is slowly getting around where the children play area is, flowers of yellow and orange happily grows at the bottom of the rock plates while the jungle gym absorbs the laughter of playing children.
Umbali does not just cater for weddings alone no it caters for anyone and any type of event. In the past the Picnic and wine shows are growing to a “not to be missed” event which had well known national artists like Valiant Swart and No One’s Arc (keep an eye on the press for the next one), high school reunions, year end and birthday functions and of course the Bridal & Matric fair well expo. This month will see the Mother’s Day Special (on 13 May) and the Antiques Road show (27 May), both of these events unique for the best venue voted by the public. Mother’s Day will show case what Chef Riana and her team in the kitchen can whip up, cook up and down right the best Sunday lunch meal that will give mum the break from the kitchen and proof that Umbali food is the best in the Lowveld. The mild autumn temperature of the Lowveld will perfect for an outside stroll around the great indigenous bush veld that surrounds the venue. Plus there will be some entertainment to keep the little people happy as well.
The Antiques Road Show will be a first as well for Umbali and the organizers invite the public to this event. These days we all see that ‘vintage’, ‘grand ma cupboard’, ‘antique’ in our gloss magazines and if you are a fan of these or if you are a first timer or starter in collecting antiques then this is perfect for you. You can browse between the collections; listen to some soothing live jazz music in the special garden. You can of course find out more about both these events on the website or Umbali Facebook page.
As for those who have visited Umbali in recent months have perhaps notice the new addition of a second floor to the building – this is the latest store room for the many thing the venue offers on hire. The improved and bigger stage that will soon host some great live events will be also a new addition. Keep an eye close to the website for updates in new building additions which of course not influence any event hosted at the Umbali hall.
Hope to see you soon at Umbali
The leader in events in Mpumalanga
