Red hot programme for PicknPay Knysna Oyster Festival

Warning:

This article may contain graphic and/or adult content unsuitable for minors and sensitive readers.

Read the article

Yolande Stander

Although temperatures are set to drop over the next few days, the more than 50 000 visitors heading to Knysna for the 31st Pick ‘n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival have a red hot programme to look forward to fend off the winter chills.

Originally called the Winter Festival, it has grown over the years and today includes more than 100 events – including some of South Africa’s biggest and most popular sport events.

The festival, which started on Friday and runs until July 13, not only provides entertainment over the winter school holidays, but also contributes substantially to the local economy, especially during a quiet period on the tourism front.

Last year the festival injected more than R90-million into the local economy. Organisers also aim to spend locally wherever possible and last year increased local expenditure to R4.4-million.
Local charities and non-profit organisations also benefit and last year more than R1.7-million rand was raised and R8.7-million over the past seven years.

“The programme is jam-packed this year. In addition to running, cycling, trail running, swimming, paddling, canoe polo and golf, you can taste more than 270 wines at the Knysna Wine Festival and Night market. You can go on a whisky and jazz cruise on the estuary or attend a port and sherry food pairing. You can hitch a ride and sail out to welcome the SA Navy as they enter the famous Knysna Heads – a wonderful festive experience as nearly everyone with a boat in the area is on the water,” festival manager Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt said.

“There is a variety of live entertainment on offer from a performance by the SA NAVY Band to Flat Stanley and Zebra and Giraffe at the official marathon after party.”

There are also a several events to keep the younger festinos entertained including baking, painting and shows at the Young Oyster Festival. “If you are a teenager you can take part in the XTERRA Kids, Teens Triathlon or Junior Golf tournament, to name a few.”

“Ultimately this festival is to celebrate all the good things Knysna has to offer – for all ages and all fitness levels. It is also about superb scenery, delectable oysters and other food and a relaxed atmosphere.”

Garden Route Media