Billed as ‘Displays of Brilliance’, this year’s Knysna Arts Festival celebrates the artistic trait so evident in this vibrant seaside town. While last year’s event focused on the visual fine arts, the 2015 event, taking place from 7 to 10 October, incorporates a song and dance component at selected venues throughout the village. 
Some of the highlights of this 4-day arts festival in Knysna include visual arts, performing arts and debates, along with an opportunity to meet some of the artists during the featured lectures and demonstrations.
The weekend’s entertainment gets off to a fitting start with an official opening on Wednesday 7 October, at the Dry Dock Restaurant, and a gala evening on the Thursday, at the Montessori School Hall.
With many other exciting things to do in Knysna, some of the highlights of the festival programme, include:
Visual arts in the form of painting, sculpture, exhibitions:
With more than 50 established local artists hailing from Knysna, Sedgefield, and Plettenberg Bay exhibiting at 40 venues in Knysna and Sedgefield, a noteworthy addition to this year’s billing is the inclusion of 7 artists from previously disadvantaged suburbs who will be presenting at home and in town.
Performing arts such as choir performances, songs, dances and musicals
Featuring some of the stars of the recent Grahamstown Festival, these take place at a variety of halls, restaurants, clubs and even boats in the area and incorporate music from classic to current, comedy shows and interactive events.
Debates and Tours
This serious of Knysna Natters include walking tours of historic sites such as the CBD, a trip to the local yacht builder and mask-making studio, a lively debate on fracking, and a photo walk around Leisure Island.
Dating back to the 1990’s, the Knysna Arts Festival has become firmly entrenched on the list of premier festivals in Knysna, so book yourself some accommodation in Knysna, and enjoy the show!
