Get ready for the 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival from 3–12 July!
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Foodies, take note: the Knysna Oyster Festival returns from 3–12 July 2026, bringing ten days of oyster competitions, wine tastings, forest feasts and family-friendly food markets under this year's theme, "A feast of family fun".
Whether you're after fine dining or a casual plate of oysters by the lagoon, here's everything on the festival's food and drink programme.
The heart of the action is the Festival Hub at Knysna High School sports fields, where Oyster Alley brings 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 is the Stella Artois Oyster Cooking and Shucking Competition, also at the Festival Hub, where talented shuckers will compete for championship honours amid plenty of oyster-inspired fun.
Food lovers can also look forward to the ever-popular FeedmeSlowly Feast in the Forest experiences at Diepwalle.
These intimate Slow Food events pair exceptional local produce with the natural beauty of the Knysna forest for a dining experience unlike any other.
The FeedmeSlowly Feast in the Forest experiences at Diepwalle.
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Wine lovers are equally well catered for. The Knysna Fine Wine Festival returns with premium tasting experiences at Simola Country Club & Spa, while further wine tastings take place throughout the festival at participating venues across town.
These include the Escape Wine Tasting at Blackwaters River Lodge, Blend Wine Tasting and Boards, and the Vintage & Wine Tasting Experience at Ekhaya African Cuisine - all showcasing outstanding local and South African wines.
The programme also features several standout food experiences: 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 indulgent Dessert War Fair at the Festival Hub, where bakers and dessert enthusiasts will show off their sweetest creations.
For a taste of Knysna in true style, the Oyster Cruise aboard The Water Club combines a lagoon cruise with fresh oysters and MCC, while Simola's Sip, Shuck & Spa offers a more relaxed way to mark the occasion.
Adding to the flavour are the Stella Artois Oyster Hot Spots, where participating restaurants and eateries across Knysna will offer oyster specials, unique dishes and the chance to win prizes throughout the festival.
The Oyster Cruise aboard The Water Club combines a lagoon cruise with fresh oysters and MCC.
Image: Supplied
Lungiswa Goya, Manager: Economic Development at Knysna Municipality and festival spokesperson, says food remains one of the festival's biggest draws: "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 are added.