Update

KNYSNA NEWS - After a period of observation for organisers, the Knysna Oyster Festival management committee has made the decision to cancel this year's festival and reconvene in 2021.

The decision was made following calls from president Cyril Ramaphosa to safeguard citizens, as well as social distancing practices predicted to continue in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

"The health and wellbeing of Knysna, and the greater community, is of utmost importance to us," said Visit Knysna general manager Colleen Durant. 

"For those who have already booked to attend this year's programme, we encourage you to postpone your trip to 2021 when we will reconvene the festivities."

Provincial tourism agency Wesgro CEO Tim Harris said: "It was not an easy decision for the Knysna Oyster Festival Committee to make. However, we believe it is the right one. The health and safety of the Greater Knysna community is paramount, and we will continue to play our part in stopping the spread. Knysna has shown extraordinary resilience many times before, and you can be sure that the festival will be back bigger and better in 2021," said Harris, urging those who have already booked not to cancel but to merely postpone their plans.

"Although we would've loved to welcome back the many festivalgoers to this year's programme, we look forward to seeing visitors return in 2021 – with the Knysna Oyster Festival determined to emerge stronger with a fresh programme featuring new additions that are guaranteed to entertain. Until then, we urge everyone to stay home and stay safe, so that we can welcome you again soon," concluded Durant. – Supplied, Visit Knysna

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