Knysna Oyster Festival 2025 Dates Announced

The dates for the 2025 Knysna Oyster Festival have been officially set by the festival steering committee. Mark your calendars for 4 – 13 July 2025. The festival will kick off with the Knysna Forest Marathon on the first weekend (4 & 5 July) and continue with the Knysna Cycle Tour during the second weekend (11 & 12 July).

Knysna Executive Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa highlighted the festival’s goal of boosting the winter economy, noting that the 2024 event surpassed expectations. According to NightsBridge, the 2024 festival saw arrivals nearing pre-COVID levels, with 2,700 online bookings—800 more than in 2023 and just 200 short of 2019 figures. The event also made a significant local impact, with R4.76 million spent on local suppliers and businesses, and over R450,000 donated to local charities and NPOs.

Mayor Tsengwa expressed gratitude towards the festival’s sponsors, emphasizing their vital role in the event’s success. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Food Lover’s Market, Standard Bank, Wesgro, SANParks, Western Cape Government, Blue Planet Power, Knysna Municipality, Visit Knysna, and Algoa FM for their invaluable support.”

Festival spokesperson Lungiswa Goya also expressed appreciation to everyone involved, including participants and festivalgoers who showed patience with road closures. “We are excited to build on this year’s achievements and look forward to an even more spectacular festival in 2025.”

Knysna Oyster Festival

Here are some accommodation recommendations in Knysna, ideal for attending the Oyster Festival:

1. The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa
   Location: Thesen Island
   Features: Luxury rooms, a spa, fine dining, and a unique setting within a converted power station.
2. The Lofts Boutique Hotel
   Location: Thesen Island
   Features: Stylish, modern rooms with views of the Knysna Lagoon, a rooftop deck, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
3. Pine Lodge Resort
   Location: Off the N2, close to the Knysna Waterfront
   Features: Comfortable cabins and suites, an outdoor pool, and beautiful garden views.
4. Knysna Hollow Country Estate
   Location: Near the Knysna Forest
   Features: Spacious rooms, a restaurant, and scenic surroundings, ideal for a tranquil retreat.
5. Conrad Pezula
   Location: Eastern Head
   Features: Luxurious resort with golf course, spa, and stunning views over the ocean and lagoon.
6. The Montrose Guest House
   Location: Central Knysna
   Features: Cozy, well-appointed rooms and personalized service in a central location.
7. Brenton Haven Beachfront Resort
   Location: Brenton-on-Sea
   Features: Self-catering units with beachfront views, ideal for a more relaxed, beachside stay.
8. Cinnamon Boutique Guest House
   Location: Central Knysna
   Features: Stylish rooms, a lovely garden, and a delicious breakfast, all within walking distance of the town’s amenities.

These options range from luxury to more budget-friendly choices, catering to various preferences and needs.