Knysna, which has been named twice as South Africa’s favourite little town, is a stunning location for the Western Cape’s annual oyster festival with its vivid blue lagoon and carpeted rocky outcrops surrounded by rich yellowwood forest. This relaxed Garden Route town comes alive in June/July school holidays to host everything from wine tastings to countryside marathons. Of course, the much-loved South African oysters take center stage. Over thirty vendors offer the best in freshly shucked goodness in the form of bare, garnished, and cooked delights. But as the event grows in popularity, it’s crucial to know when to attend and where to hunt for that hidden gem of lodging.
The residents of Knysna have direct access to the finest seafood thanks to the roughly 294 kilometers of coastline. It is hardly surprising that this particular geography still has a significant impact on South African cuisine. The festival, which lasts for 10 days over two weekends, draws more than 70,000 people each year. One of the most well-liked festivals in South Africa, it attracts a wide range of tourists from all over the countryside and abroad. The event has been a celebration of South African culture for 32 years!
This year, the event takes place from 30 June to 9 July 2023.
Oysters from the Knysna lagoon, where they were raised in oyster “farms,” were initially served at the festival in restaurants all across Knysna and at many of the activities. The majority of cultivated oysters are now grown in Saldanha Bay because these farms no longer exist. The coast between Cape Agulhas and the Wild Coast is where restaurants in the wider Knysna area now serve both cultivated and wild coastal oysters.
Since 1983, when it was still known as the Knysna Winter Festival, Knysna’s Oyster Festival has been a smashing success. Running, cycling, golfing, wine tasting, live music and of course, oysters are all part of the festival, which draws athletes, families, food and wine lovers and adrenaline junkies. The festival offers a diverse schedule and is an excellent excuse to travel to Knysna with loved ones.
Run through the lush flora that makes this region of the world so stunning during the thrilling Knysna Forest Marathon. In order to allow runners to select the distance that best suits their level of fitness and training, there are two options – 21km and 42km. Both a road cycling race and a mountain bike race are part of the Knysna Cycle Tour. For families with active kids, there are also shorter bicycle races.
The Knysna Oyster Festival provides oyster eating and shucking competitions, along with a fair mix of comedy, for those who aren’t as athletic. The locals contending for the titles “The Best Dressed Oyster” and “Best Dressed Stand” may be seen as you stroll around the restaurants at night. Excellent for foodies and wine enthusiasts since you may taste wines that pair well with oyster tasting. The ideal package for a wonderful week away includes all these things, including fish braais, night markets and fantastic kid-friendly entertainment.
For this well-attended event, it is advisable to reserve your accommodation far in advance to avoid disappointment. Hello Garden Route brings you the best in Winter Holiday Accommodation Specials, also the best guest houses, hotels and self-catering accommodations in Knysna accommodation. Contact us to book your preferred accommodation!
