The countdown is officially on for the 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival, and food lovers have plenty to look forward to when the festival returns from 3–12 July under the theme “A feast of family fun”. From oyster competitions and wine tastings to forest feasts, food markets and sweet treats, this year’s programme serves up one of the most diverse culinary line-ups yet.
At the heart of the action is the Festival Hub at the Knysna High School sports fields, where Oyster Alley will bring together food stalls, local flavours, family entertainment and market experiences throughout the festival. Visitors can sample a wide variety of food while soaking up the festive atmosphere and live entertainment.
One of the most anticipated events on the programme is the Stella Artois Oyster Cooking and Shucking Competition. Taking place at the Festival Hub, the event will see talented oyster shuckers competing for championship honours while visitors enjoy plenty of oyster-inspired fun.
Food enthusiasts can also look forward to the ever-popular FeedmeSlowly Feast in the Forest experiences at Diepwalle. These intimate Slow Food events combine exceptional local produce with the natural beauty of the Knysna forest, offering a dining experience unlike any other.
Wine lovers are equally well catered for. The Knysna Fine Wine Festival returns with premium tasting experiences at Simola Country Club & Spa, while additional wine tastings will take place throughout the festival at participating venues across town. Escape Wine Tasting at Blackwaters River Lodge, Blend Wine Tasting and Boards, and the Vintage & Wine Tasting Experience at Ekhaya African Cuisine all offer visitors the chance to discover outstanding local and South African wines.
The programme also includes several unique food experiences. Visitors can enjoy a four-course Oyster Inspired Dinner at Île de Pain, a four-course Slow Food Dinner at Grain Mill Bistro, the popular Robberg Fish Braai Competition, and the wonderfully indulgent Dessert War Fair at the Festival Hub, where bakers and dessert enthusiasts will showcase their sweetest creations.
For those wanting to enjoy oysters in true Knysna style, the Oyster Cruise aboard The Water Club combines a lagoon cruise with fresh oysters and MCC, while Simola’s Sip, Shuck & Spa experience offers a more relaxed way to celebrate the festival.
Adding to the flavour of the festival are the Stella Artois Oyster Hot Spots, where participating restaurants and eateries across Knysna will be offering oyster specials, unique dishes and opportunities to win prizes throughout the festival.
Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Economic Development at Knysna Municipality and spokesperson for the festival, says food remains one of the festival’s biggest attractions.
“The Knysna Oyster Festival has always been about bringing people together, and food plays a central role in that. From oysters and wine to family favourites, local produce and unique dining experiences, this year’s programme offers visitors countless opportunities to discover the flavours that make Knysna such a special destination.”
The full programme is available at www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za and visitors are encouraged to check back regularly as additional events and experiences continue to be added.
At the heart of the action is the Festival Hub at the Knysna High School sports fields, where Oyster Alley will bring together food stalls, local flavours, family entertainment and market experiences throughout the festival. Visitors can sample a wide variety of food while soaking up the festive atmosphere and live entertainment.
One of the most anticipated events on the programme is the Stella Artois Oyster Cooking and Shucking Competition. Taking place at the Festival Hub, the event will see talented oyster shuckers competing for championship honours while visitors enjoy plenty of oyster-inspired fun.
Food enthusiasts can also look forward to the ever-popular FeedmeSlowly Feast in the Forest experiences at Diepwalle. These intimate Slow Food events combine exceptional local produce with the natural beauty of the Knysna forest, offering a dining experience unlike any other.
Wine lovers are equally well catered for. The Knysna Fine Wine Festival returns with premium tasting experiences at Simola Country Club & Spa, while additional wine tastings will take place throughout the festival at participating venues across town. Escape Wine Tasting at Blackwaters River Lodge, Blend Wine Tasting and Boards, and the Vintage & Wine Tasting Experience at Ekhaya African Cuisine all offer visitors the chance to discover outstanding local and South African wines.
The programme also includes several unique food experiences. Visitors can enjoy a four-course Oyster Inspired Dinner at Île de Pain, a four-course Slow Food Dinner at Grain Mill Bistro, the popular Robberg Fish Braai Competition, and the wonderfully indulgent Dessert War Fair at the Festival Hub, where bakers and dessert enthusiasts will showcase their sweetest creations.
For those wanting to enjoy oysters in true Knysna style, the Oyster Cruise aboard The Water Club combines a lagoon cruise with fresh oysters and MCC, while Simola’s Sip, Shuck & Spa experience offers a more relaxed way to celebrate the festival.
Adding to the flavour of the festival are the Stella Artois Oyster Hot Spots, where participating restaurants and eateries across Knysna will be offering oyster specials, unique dishes and opportunities to win prizes throughout the festival.
Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Economic Development at Knysna Municipality and spokesperson for the festival, says food remains one of the festival’s biggest attractions.
“The Knysna Oyster Festival has always been about bringing people together, and food plays a central role in that. From oysters and wine to family favourites, local produce and unique dining experiences, this year’s programme offers visitors countless opportunities to discover the flavours that make Knysna such a special destination.”
The full programme is available at www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za and visitors are encouraged to check back regularly as additional events and experiences continue to be added.