Get ready for an unforgettable winter escape to South Africa's stunning Garden Route! From July 4th to 13th, 2025, the highly anticipated Knysna Oyster Festival returns with a splash, promising ten days of delectable oysters, thrilling sports, and vibrant entertainment. And for those staying with Plett Getaways, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy not one, but two incredible festivals happening at the same time!
Plettenberg Bay, just a short and scenic 30-minute drive from Knysna, is the ideal base for exploring the Garden Route. Its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere offer the perfect complement to the lively festival buzz. What makes this year even more special? The Plett Ocean Festival is also running from July 4th to 13th, 2025, giving you double the reason for a fantastic winter getaway!
The Knysna Oyster Festival, initiated in 1983 to attract visitors during the off-season, has grown into the Garden Route’s biggest annual event. It's a family-friendly celebration of sport and the good life, organized by local residents with a charity component ensuring that a percentage of funds raised supports local causes.
Under the enticing theme "For a shucking good time!", this year's festival is set to celebrate the unique charm and flavors of Knysna. Expect a full program inviting "festinos" to enjoy a feast of food, sporting, and cultural activities. The festival committee is working hard to bring the famous mollusc back to center stage, ensuring oysters are readily available at venues throughout the Knysna area.
Sporting Spectacles and Outdoor Adventures
The festival kicks off with two iconic sporting events that draw participants and spectators alike.
- The Dessert War Fair (July 9th, 2025): Indulge your sweet tooth at this "decadent celebration of all things sweet and indulgent!" Talented chefs and bakers from the Garden Route will showcase their scrumptious creations, and you can vote for the ultimate Dessert Champion.
- Knysna X Trail Series Winter Run (July 12th, 2025): Take on the 24km or 18km trail run starting at Blackwaters River Lodge, offering a challenging and scenic experience.
- Knysna Oyster Festival Golf Day (July 11th, 2025): Tee off and enjoy a day on the greens.
- Pop-up Shop and Food Donations Drive for KAWS, hosted by Absolute Pets (July 12th - 13th, 2025): Support a great cause by purchasing pet food, accessories, treats, and toys for donation to KAWS.
- Simola Golf Course Sunset Wine Run/Walk (July 10th, 2025): "Sip, stroll, and soak up the views" on this scenic 5km adventure starting at Simola Hotel, featuring three fabulous wine stops.
- Amazing Race – Knysna Style (July 9th, 2025): Fifty teams of two will embark on a thrilling journey around Knysna, solving riddles, clues, and completing tasks.
- Underwater Estuary Trash Bash (July 4th - 13th, 2025): Calling all ocean enthusiasts to team up for an underwater clean-up at the Knysna Heads. Help collect and remove fishing line, hooks, sinkers, plastics, and more.
- Knysna Oyster Cooking and Shucking Championships (July 8th, 2025): Watch restaurants vie for the title of "Best Dressed Oyster" and cheer on the fast-paced Oyster Shucking Championships.
- The Oyster Fest Shake Up – Part 2 (July 11th, 2025): Head to BLOO BISTRO for the Garden Route's hottest DJs, an "all-around vibe," drink specials, and banging tunes.
- 5km for CANSA (July 6th, 2025): A fun, community-led walk/run open to all ages and fitness levels, raising funds for cancer awareness and support.
- And of course... Oysters! : Local restaurants in and around Knysna will provide ample opportunities to taste oysters in various delicious forms. Many will also host live music and entertainment throughout the 10-day period.
These are just some of the highlights to look forward to. For more information visit www.knysnaoysterfestival.co.za
Don't miss out on the ultimate Garden Route experience!
