In keeping with the bold new horizons to be explored on the 15th occasion of South Africa's best-loved lifestyle celebration come two innovative arenas for the increased well-being of festival-goers and entrepreneurs alike - a fully revamped Crafts Market offering comprehensive-enough 'retail therapy' to rejuvenate the most jaded of souls, plus a Rainbow Village of complementary healers to relieve city stress and restore the balance of body and mind. The addition of Adventure Sports, Cultural Excursions and other 'extra-musical' activities to Splashy's roster promises not only to attract more pleasure-seekers, but also the need to satisfy an even wider range of interests...hence the exciting new prospects for both visionary crafts-folk and dedicated alternative therapists.

Responsibility for co-ordination of this double-headed venture has been placed in the capable hands of holistic practitioner and crafts connoisseur Megan Steyn - whose teepee will be among those creating the Rainbow Village's aura of mystic tranquility.

In addition to 'physical' treatments such as Reflexology and various fields of massage, Splashy's wellness centre looks forward to offering the more 'energy level' forms of therapy which range from Reiki and EMF Balancing to Body Alignment Technique and beyond. As a further bonus, Megan intends seeking out practitioners willing to conduct Workshops on their particular disciplines. Astrologers and others steeped in the 'mysteries' will also be welcome in Rainbow Village - long queues to see one's future foretold are guaranteed!

Regarding wares for sale at the Crafts Market, apart from "authentic top quality", Megan is particularly hopeful of enticing 'genuine and original ethnic creations - not the mass-market curios too often associated with the tourist trade'. Here, too, will Workshops be a particular magnet, as revellers are initiated into the intricate mechanics of macramé, leather-tooling and more, plus the construction of percussion instruments, dream-catchers and other fascinating objects d'art. A part of its manifesto to integrate local communities into the holistic vision of Splashy Fen, this year's model will serve as a focal point for craftspeople from throughout the district to expose their creative talents.

Certain criteria and conditions apply to the above-mentioned enterprises in order to guarantee for 'Splashy Fenners 2004' their best-ever experience of this unique annual get-together - for the 'fine print' we recommend that would-be business participants in our Crafts Market or Rainbow Village contact the festival's most helpful and approachable 'guardian of good taste' - Megan Steyn- at 082 330 2611 as soon as possible to avoid disappointment at a later stage.

On the catering front, dab hands in the kitchen who believe themselves capable of 'feeding a multitude' will undoubtedly find their delectable taste treats much in demand. For more information with regards to Food Market Traders contact Festival Director Peter Ferraz - at 033 701 1932 or fill out the online application forms.