KNYSNA NEWS - As preparations for the much-anticipated 2025 Knysna Oyster Festival reach the final stages, the Knysna Municipality, through Visit Knysna, has announced an exciting partnership with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) that will bring both musical flair and youth empowerment to this year's festivities.

The SANDF will take centre stage during the festival's formal public opening ceremony, with the army band set to deliver a rousing performance on Main Road.

The band's appearance is expected to draw crowds and energise the opening day of the celebrated cultural and sporting festival.

Beyond the music, the SANDF will be actively involved throughout the festival by hosting a career exhibition aimed at empowering young people, especially those who are unemployed or exploring new opportunities.

The exhibition will be held at the Knysna High School field, which is the central hub of the festival.

 It will showcase a wide range of career pathways within the SANDF, along with information on skills development, training programmes and enlistment opportunities.

The 2025 Knysna Oyster Festival, scheduled to run over 10 days, is set to feature a diverse programme of events ranging from sporting challenges to food and wine experiences, art exhibitions and live entertainment.

The SANDF's involvement adds a new layer of impact, combining entertainment with social development.

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