Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival opens

- click here to watch opening video - The 27th Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival was officially on Wednesday night (30 June) by the Mayor of Knysna, Eleanore Bouw-Spies. Four hundred and fifty guests attended the spectacular function at the Heineken® Pavilion at the Oyster Festival Grounds including sponsors, municipal officials, Knysna Tourism board members, media and events managers to celebrate the start of one of South Africa’s most popular and enduring festivals, which has been touted as the Best 10 Days of your 2010. The mayor said that the festival served a vital role in the economy of Knysna. “This festival brings a much-needed cash injection to town every winter and we are grateful to Pick n Pay, our naming sponsor and all the other sponsors that make this possible. There is an exciting programme this year, and I know that there were fears that Festival numbers may be influenced by the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, however I think we have seen that our annual supporters are loyal to the Festival as entries for the big sporting events are on a par with last year.” Speaking on behalf of the naming sponsor, Anton Bence, Pick n Pay Regional Manager SWD Stores, said that Pick n Pay believes in the Oyster Festival because it makes a worthwhile contribution to local economic development and uplifting local communities. CEO of Knysna Tourism, Shaun van Eck said that participants at the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival will become part of a wonderful winter in Knysna. “We rolled out the ‘green’ carpet for our international visitors for the World Cup, and it’s now time for our festival visitors to take centre stage. Join us in celebrating a truly memorable 2010 and enjoying the lifestyle that creates winning memories.”