Throughout the year Knysna hosts a variety of popular events, with the Knysna Oyster Festival being the most famous. The town also welcomes sporting events, food festivals, art exhibitions and local markets that attract visitors from around the world.
Annual Events & Festivals
Knysna hosts several popular events throughout the year that attract visitors from around the world.
- Knysna Oyster Festival – the Garden Route’s largest annual sporting and lifestyle festival
- Simola Hillclimb – South Africa’s premier motorsport event
- Pink Loerie Festival – a colourful celebration of diversity, creativity and entertainment
- Garden Route Festival of Books – an annual literary festival featuring leading South African authors and cultural figures
During the Knysna Oyster Festival and Simola Hillclimb, Abalone Lodges offers special event accommodation rates and exclusive-use bookings for groups of up to 24 guests.
Food, Markets & Local Experiences
Knysna is home to a vibrant food scene, waterfront restaurants, artisan coffee shops, local markets and boutique shopping experiences, making it the perfect destination for food lovers and explorers alike.
Friday Market at Knysna Montessori
Looking for the perfect way to start your weekend? Every Friday evening, The Friday Market at Knysna Montessori brings together locals and visitors for a relaxed evening of great food, live music and community spirit.
Held on the grounds of Knysna Montessori School, the market features a fantastic selection of food stalls, local craft vendors, a licensed bar and regular live music performances. Large bonfires, outdoor seating and a family-friendly atmosphere make it one of Knysna’s most popular weekly events.
Our tip: Arrive around sunset, grab something delicious from one of the food stalls, find a seat near the live music and enjoy a relaxed Knysna Friday night like a local.
Saturday Farmers’ Market in Sedgefield
A Saturday morning visit to the famous Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market in Sedgefield is one of our favourite local experiences. Located approximately 25 minutes from Abalone Lodges, this award-winning market has become a Garden Route institution and attracts both locals and visitors every weekend.
The market offers an incredible selection of fresh local produce, artisan breads, cheeses, free-range meats, homemade treats, flowers and freshly prepared breakfasts. Everything is sourced from local producers, creating a truly authentic Garden Route experience.
Our tip: Arrive early, grab a coffee and enjoy breakfast under the trees before browsing the stalls. If you still have time afterwards, visit nearby Mosaic Market for local crafts, artwork and unique souvenirs.
Saturday Parkrun
For active travellers, Knysna offers the opportunity to take part in a weekly Parkrun every Saturday morning. Parkrun is a free, community-driven 5 km event where participants can walk, jog or run at their own pace. Whether you’re an experienced runner chasing a personal best or simply looking for a scenic morning walk, everyone is welcome.
The Knysna Parkrun follows a beautiful route through the area and is a fantastic way to start the weekend while meeting both locals and fellow visitors. Participation is free, but registration is required in advance through the Parkrun website. Once registered, you can use the same barcode at Parkrun events all over the world.
Our tip: Arrive a little early, enjoy the friendly atmosphere and reward yourself with a well-deserved breakfast afterwards at one of Knysna’s excellent cafés.
Stay at Abalone Lodges
After a day of exploring, return to the comfort of your private lagoon-view lodge. Relax on your balcony, enjoy a traditional South African braai and experience the peaceful surroundings that make Abalone Lodges the perfect base for discovering Knysna and the Garden Route.
