Esels isn't really the same. You pitch for all three days, you camp, there is a village with stalls selling meat to braai, booze and food plus a kids play area and chilled vibe but still a race and an event.
Piket open day didn't seem the same at all - just a ticket to ride route(s) on the day you'd booked, no timing, race or prize money. Not an event as such IOW but still great.
Another option at Piket is to stay at one of the farms for the weekend. if you select wisely you will have access to some of the lekker trails on that farm.
