Visit Knysna, Knysna Tourism, Garden Route, South Africa

Month: March 2026

Italian Street Festival brings a Taste of Italy to Knysna

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

The organisers of the Italy in Town: Knysna Street Fest edition said feedback after the weekend’s event was overwhelmingly positive, following a vibrant and successful weekend in Knysna. With more than 2000 visitors attending over two days, the festival proved to be a joyful celebration of Italian culture, food, and community spirit.

Chris van der Merwe from RE/MAX Coastal said from the moment the festival opened, visitors were treated to an authentic Italian experience – the aroma of delicious cuisine and a festive atmosphere that catered to both young and old.

“Performances by the Knysna Tenors and talented jazz duos created a lively atmosphere, adding to the charm of the event. A highlight for many attendees was the impressive showcase of Italian automotive excellence, with members of the Ferrari Club and Vespa clubs from the region making a special appearance. Their presence added a unique flair and drew admiration from car and motorbike enthusiasts alike.”

Food lovers were equally spoilt for choice, with a wide selection of Italian-inspired dishes on offer, all enjoyed under beautiful weather conditions that made the weekend even more memorable.

“We are incredibly proud of what was achieved this weekend,” said Chris van der Merwe from RE/MAX. “The turnout, the energy, and the sense of community exceeded our expectations. It was wonderful to see families, friends, and visitors come together to celebrate all things Italian in such a warm and welcoming environment.”

“RE/MAX is proud to have been part of such a vibrant and well-supported event. The Italian Street Festival brought people together in a truly special way, showcasing the best of Knysna’s community spirit while celebrating international culture.”

He said they want to extend their sincere thanks to all attendees, participants, partners, and sponsors who contributed to the festival’s success. “A special word of appreciation goes to the passionate supporters and lovers of Italian culture, as well as the local community, whose enthusiasm and involvement made the event truly unforgettable. Last, but certainly not least, Hospice and Child Welfare were well supported and received donations throughout the weekend.”

“With the positive feedback and strong community support, the Italian Street Festival is set to become a much-anticipated highlight on Knysna’s events calendar.”

Every Entry Counts: Lions Karoo to Coast Riders Unite to Raise a Life-Changing Guide Dog

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

When riders line up for the 25th edition of the Lions Karoo to Coast MTB, Gravel and E-Bike Challenge on 27 September 2026, they won’t just be chasing the finish line — they will be riding to change a life.

For people like *Thandi (*name changed for privacy)*, a guide dog represents a turning point. After losing her sight in her early twenties, everyday tasks became overwhelming. Crossing a busy street or navigating public spaces felt impossible without assistance. When she was partnered with a trained guide dog through the South African Guide-Dogs Association , her world expanded again.

“My guide dog didn’t just help me move around,” she says. “He gave me back my confidence. I can work, travel and live independently. He gave me a piece of my life back.”

Stories like Thandi’s are at the heart of a new partnership between the Lions Karoo to Coast and the South African Guide-Dogs Association. The campaign transforms every race entry into an act of purpose. If the event reaches 2,100 entries in 2026, organisers will donate R100,000 to SAGDA — towards the cost of training a guide dog for a person in need.

For someone living with visual impairment, a guide dog is far more than a companion. It is independence, mobility, safety and renewed confidence. It is the freedom to navigate the world with dignity.

“Each guide dog is the result of years of commitment, expert training and compassionate care — and the impact is life-changing,” says Vanda Harries, Head of Marketing at the South African Guide-Dogs Association. “Through this partnership, the cycling community has a meaningful opportunity to help us match another guide dog with someone seeking greater independence and freedom. A single event really can make a life-changing difference.”

The Lions Karoo to Coast organisers are calling on riders to turn the campaign into a movement by challenging their friends and colleagues to enter. Branded the “Challenge a Chommie” initiative, the campaign encourages cyclists to rally their networks and be part of something bigger than sport.

“The Lions Karoo to Coast has always been about community and shared experiences,” says the President of Uniondale Lions, Gert Olivier. The event is owned by both the Lions of Uniondale and Knysna – the respective start and finish venues for the K2C. “As we celebrate our 25th edition, we wanted to create a legacy moment. If every rider inspires just one more person to enter, we can reach 2,100 participants and fund a guide dog that will change someone’s everyday reality. That’s an incredibly powerful reason to ride.”

The campaign highlights the deep connection between perseverance and possibility. Just as riders push through challenging terrain to reach the coast, SAGDA works tirelessly behind the scenes to train dogs that help people overcome daily obstacles and reclaim their independence.

Participants of all abilities are invited to join one of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events — and in doing so, become part of a collective effort to make a tangible difference.

Entries for the 2026 Lions Karoo to Coast MTB, Gravel and E-Bike Challenge are now open. Riders are encouraged to sign up, spread the word, and challenge their communities to help reach the 2,100-rider goal.

For more information and to enter, visit www.karootocoast.com. To learn more about the South African Guide-Dogs Association and its work, visit https://guidedog.org.za.

A Food Lover’s Dream: One week to go until the Italian Street Festival in Knysna

Posted on by Keagon Borchards

With just one week to go, excitement is building for the Italian Street Festival in Knysna – a celebration of authentic Italian flavours, fine wines, and vibrant street-market energy that promises to delight food lovers from across the country.

Chris van der Merwe from REMAX Coastal, the Festival’s main sponsor, said a section of the beautiful Thesen Harbour Town will be transformed into a lively Italian piazza for the day. “The festival will showcase an irresistible spread of Italian street food, artisanal products, and premium wines, offering visitors the chance to taste, sip, and savour their way through Italy’s most beloved culinary traditions.”

A Feast of Authentic Italian Flavours
Festivalgoers can look forward to a mouthwatering selection of dishes, including Porchetta, succulent rolled pork belly stuffed with herbs, served with rustic potatoes and salsa verde; Authentic wood-fired pizzas with thin, hand-rolled bases; Italian deli specialities including imported cold meats, cheeses, pastas and sauces, Focaccia sandwiches filled with favourites such as mortadella, Caprese and burrata salads, Spaghetti Bolognese and creamy risotto, Italian sandwiches and artisanal bakery treats, Mediterranean seafood paella and fritto misto and authentic Italian gelato and indulgent Italian desserts including Affogato, Tiramisu cups, Cannoli, Biscotti and chocolate squares.
Italian wines, tastings and movie night

Complementing the food will be an exceptional range of wines and tastings. Guests will be able to enjoy Zonin Prosecco, along with wines from Merwida Wines, imported Italian selections from Gabba International Wine, and Italian varietals produced locally by Morgenster Estate in Somerset West. “Wine tastings will be available throughout the event, and visitors can order to enjoy later, or buy to enjoy immediately, at the bar. “
Love European movies? The Garden Route Italian Consul is hosting a movie night at the Amble Ridge Club House on Friday night, 20 March, at 19:00. The highly acclaimed La Finestra di Fronte is a story of love, identity, and redemption, with English subtitles. Sapori Bistro will also be open from 18:00-20:00.

Artisan Producers
Van der Merwe said adding to the authenticity of the experience will be a selection of artisan producers and speciality food vendors, including Mastro Dario, the ‘Salami Maestro and Italian cheeses from Puglia Cheese, a family-run artisanal cheesemaker based in Somerset West.

Italian car and Motorbike on display
There will be an impressive display of Italian cars and motorbikes, showcasing the country’s legendary design and engineering. “Visitors can admire both classic and modern models, including rare collector’s items lovingly maintained by local enthusiasts. From vintage beauties to sleek contemporary machines, the display celebrates Italy’s passion for style, performance, and craftsmanship – the perfect visual complement to a day dedicated to Italian culture. The Ferrari Club will attend the event on Sunday the 22nd.”

Don’t Miss Out
With its irresistible combination of authentic food, fine wine, live music, a lively atmosphere and Italian flair, the Italian Street Festival is shaping up to be one of Knysna’s most delicious events of the season. “Come and join us in celebrating Italy against the backdrop of the beautiful and quaint Thesen Harbour town, meet old and new friends and celebrate around long tables, alfresco style.”

Tickets are available on Quicket and are selling fast – prebook on Quicket at R180 pp or get yours at the entrance. With just one week to go, lovers of all things Italian must secure their place now – don’t miss this celebration of Italian food, wine and culture in the heart of Knysna…. and come hungry!
Last, but certainly not least, the event is also a fundraiser for Hospice – you eat for a good cause! What a win-win!”

Useful information:
The Festival is open from 2pm to 9pm on Saturday 21 March, and from 10:00 – 16:00 on Sunday 22 March.
To avoid parking congestion around the venue, the Knysna Primary School will run a “Park & Ride” system on the day of the event as a fundraiser for the school. Park on the sports field and take the shuttle that will drop you off at the venue. Shuttles will run from the venue back to the sport field at regular intervals.