Young and old are invited to put on their maddest hat and come to the Mad Hatters’ Tea Party by Picnics in the Park (#PiP), at Meerendal Wine Estate, Cape Town, March 28, 2020.

The popular annual event is themed around Lewis Carroll’s beloved tale, Alice in Wonderland, and challenges guests’ creativity to dress as their favourite character from the book.

This unique outdoor experience will draw its audience in with shrill exclamations of “Off with their heads!” echoing across Meerendal Wine Estate as a game of Human Chess gets underway.

A Hat Parade, Best Dressed competitions, a Beacon Chocolate Hunt and a host of other surprises will also leave attendees grinning like a Cheshire Cat as things become “Curiouser and curiouser!” 

The event will screen all of the essential movies on a big outdoor screen: Alice in Wonderland (1951), Alice in Wonderland (2010) and Into the Looking Glass (2016).

Appealing to young and old and everyone in between, the Mad Hatters’ Tea Party by #PiP is sure to be a fun-filled outing for the whole family. 

“The Picnics in the Park series turns five this year and to celebrate, we are coming to Cape Town with the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. The event is one of our most popular themes within the series and we look forward to entertaining as many Capetonians as we have guests in Johannesburg,” says Leone Amon of Amon Events International, an award-winning events company.

Amon, creator of the #PiP brand and coordinator of its annual festivities, is known for developing exceptionally immersive experiences. From captivating props to dazzling sets, and glittering costumes to intriguing activities, her attention to detail ensures audiences remain deeply engaged. 

The 2017 Mad Hatters’ Tea Party made its mark on the global stage by setting the Guinness World Record for the most people dressed as Alice in Wonderland characters in one place at the same time.

This year, #PiP has decided to brew up some friendly rivalry between Cape Town and Joburg (whose own Mad Hatters’ Tea Party falls on the 4th of April) in an attempt to better last year’s Guinness record.

“Only one city can win the title for the most characters dressed as Alice in Wonderland characters in one place,” says Amon. “So we’re challenging Capetonians to bring their family and friends for support, all dressed up in their maddest hats, dandiest costumes and craziest makeup. Be sure to follow us on social media and our website for rules, inspiration and creative ideas.”

Tickets to the event can be purchased online from Quicket, but book now because they might be gone quicker than you can say “Jabberwocky”. Early bird specials are available.

Guests can also “DO GOOD FOR A TICKET’. There are 200 tickets allocated at a discounted price and the full proceeds will be donated to a local charity (Sisters Incorporated) that provides shelter and support to abused women and children. In addition, 100 tickets are also available whereby guests can earn their entrance by donating items listed below, matching the value of the ticket. These goods will be delivered to the refuge on their behalf. “Do Good For a Ticket” & “Donate Tickets” are available on Quicket.

Lastly, a limited number of free passes are available to those wishing to volunteer their services to assist coordinators with various duties on the day.

Reduced prices are available for persons with special needs and their caregivers, and toddlers under two enter for free.

This year’s event is held in loving memory of Heila Kilian (1955-2018), who won the Best Dressed award for her Queen of Hearts costume in 2017.

Venue: Meerendal Wine Estate, Cape Town

Date: March 28, 2020

Time: 1pm to 7pm

Cost: R150 (Regular priced ticket)

Dress code: Entirely bonkers (as long as it’s regulation Wonderland wear)

Guinness World Record challenge: Terms & conditions apply. See the #PiP website for details.

Buy a ticket: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/95773-the-mad-hatters-picnic-ct/?lc=97402525#/https://qkt.io/Ed2L3W

Donate or Do good for a ticket: http://picnicsinthepark.co/do-good-for-a-ticket/

Work for a ticket (volunteer): http://picnicsinthepark.co/work-for-a-ticket/

Pictures: Supplied

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