Thesen Harbour Town in Knysna is set to come alive with the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy as the second annual Knysna Italian Street Festival returns on 21 and 22 March.
Following last year’s success, the event will be held over two days at the beautiful, upmarket Thesen Harbour Town. Promising a vibrant, immersive celebration of Italian culture that is not to be missed, organising duo Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt of Knysna PR and Carien Loubser of Brainwave said the festival will offer visitors a true taste of la dolce vita in the heart of the Garden Route. “Expect the irresistible aroma of authentic Italian cuisine and fine wines, to live music and family-friendly festivities. Adding to the experience will be an iconic showcase of Italian motoring excellence. From classic Vespas and Fiats to legendary Ferraris and Lamborghinis, celebrating both old-world charm and modern design.”
Collaboration with ItalCham
This year marks an exciting collaboration with ItalCham, the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries (ItalCham). Pamina Bohrer from ItalCham said that, following Italy in Town: Cape Town’s success, they aim to host three annual Italy in Town events across South Africa: Cape Town, Johannesburg, and the Garden Route edition in Knysna. “The events are about celebrating Italian culture, cuisine and lifestyle beyond the major metropolitan centres. This partnership brings together the ItalCham mission to promote Italian excellence in South Africa with the Festival’s strong local roots and vibrant community spirit. Through this collaboration, ItalCham will support the festival in strengthening its Italian identity, fostering cultural exchange, and creating meaningful connections between Italian businesses and brands and the South African public.”
The Knysna Italian Street Festival has become a key platform for showcasing authentic Italian food, wine, music and family traditions in the Garden Route. Bohrer said the inaugural Festival in 2025 attracted more than 2 200 attendees. “Visitors came from as far as Port Elizabeth and Still Bay. ItalCham is proud to be associated with an initiative that celebrates Italy beyond the major cities and highlights the richness of Italian culture at a community level.”
A PASSION FOR ALL THINGS ITALIAN
The organisers said sponsors are key to hosting a quality experience. Chris van der Merwe from REMAX Coastal, the Festival’s main sponsor, said they are excited to be involved. “We love Italian cars, wine and food and are privileged to be part of the event. ItalCham involvement and the inclusion of the event in the Italy in Town collection are exciting, and I look forward to working with them to create an authentic, truly Italian experience. We also appreciate the support of Visit Knysna.”
EARLY BIRD TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE ON QUICKET
Ticket sales have opened and are available on Quicket, with early-bird tickets in February at R150 pp, pre-event tickets in March at R180, and R200 at the entrance. Limited VIP tickets are available at R500 pp and include reserved VIP seating, welcome drinks and a charcuterie board. Click here to buy tickets
With world-class flavours, unforgettable performances, and a stunning display of Italian automotive passion, the 2026 Knysna Italian Street Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of culture, connection and celebration.
Buon appetito, Knysna – Italy is coming to town!
Follow the festival’s social media channels for regular updates:
Facebook: @knysna_street_festival
Instagram: @knysna_Italian_street_festival
For more information about the event, please contact Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt on +27 83 299 7777, or email nicci@knysnapr.co.za.
For stall enquiries, please contact Tammy Cobey on +27 81 701 0272 or email tammy@eventcostudio.co.za.
