KNYSNA - The 2026 Knysna Oyster Festival has delivered a welcome boost to the local economy, with businesses reporting improved trading conditions and thousands of visitors descending on the town during the 10-day event.
According to a post-festival business impact survey, more than a third of participating businesses said they performed better than during the 2025 festival, while 40% reported trading at similar levels despite ongoing economic challenges.
Nearly 37% experienced turnover growth, with almost one in four businesses recording increases of between 10% and 30%.
The festival's sporting programme again proved to be the biggest economic driver, with 70% of businesses identifying events such as the Knysna Forest Marathon and Knysna Cycle Tour as the main contributors to increased trade.
More than 6 300 runners took part in the marathon and half-marathon, while the cycle tour attracted numbers comparable to last year.
Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie said the festival once again demonstrated how major events stimulate tourism and create economic opportunities. "This festival does more than showcase the best of Knysna. It strengthens the local economy and creates real jobs in the region," he said.
Growth was also recorded at the Standard Bank Neighbourhood Makers Hub, where revenue increased by more than 30%, from R160 092 last year to R208 956 this year.
The hub expanded its offering by 20%, creating additional opportunities for local traders and Sedfa-supported businesses. The Dessert War Fair also enjoyed growth of more than 80% after moving to a larger venue.
The festival generated significant publicity for Knysna, with editorial media coverage increasing in value from R5.9m in 2025 to R7.8m this year.
Knysna Mayor Thando Matika said the festival once again highlighted the value of partnerships between the municipality, businesses and the local community.
"For 10 incredible days, our town welcomed thousands of visitors who supported local businesses and experienced the hospitality that makes Knysna one of South Africa's favourite tourism destinations," he said.
Festival organiser and municipal manager for economic development, Lungiswa Goya, said this year's results reflected encouraging growth across several key areas.
"Our goal is to create opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, sporting clubs and community organisations while presenting a festival that offers something for everyone," she said.
Among the festival highlights was the sold-out Stella Artois Oyster Cooking and Shucking Competition, which raised R12 000 for the Fur the Love of Animals Sterilisation Project in partnership with CX Animals in Need and the Knysna Animal Welfare Society.
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