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.
