Event Dates
From: Thursday, September 24, 2026
To: Sunday, September 27, 2026
Pink Loerie Mardi Gras
& Arts Festival 2026
Celebrate gay pride in the Garden Route’s queen city. The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival.
Africa's most colourful gay event – in the heart of the Garden Route
Set in “South Africa’s Favourite Town of the Year”, the spectacularly colourful affair basically shuts down the tranquil Garden Route hub with five raucous days of shows, entertainment, a mini-market and heaps of over-the-top, flamboyant fun.
- The Mardi Gras weekend is very popular. Knysna is a small town and hotels are limited. The best ones fill up fast, so book well in advance. Stay at the Villa Castollini, host venue for several of the parties.
The Events
- Next Edition: Thursday 24th September 2026 – Sunday 27th September 2026.
- Unquestionably a global highlight for the LGBTQ community, the festive carnival also appeals to anyone who wants to celebrate diversity and acceptance.
- Knysna is a stunning five and a half hour drive from Cape Town or one hour flight to George GRJ airport and then one hour shuttle.
Pink Loerie Festival Program
- Thursday 24th September – Heritage Day opening celebrations, cultural showcases, LGBTQ+ art exhibitions, wellness events, and live performances across Knysna.
- Friday 25th September – Street parties, drag shows, live music, community events, heritage workshops, and nightlife events begin across the town.
- Saturday 26th September – The main Knysna Pride Parade takes over the streets with floats, performers, dancers, DJs, and festival crowds throughout the day and night.
- Saturday 26th September – Expect headline entertainment, outdoor stages, cabaret, drag productions, and late-night parties across multiple venues.
- Sunday 27th September – Recovery sessions, brunches, wellness meetups, closing events, and final performances wrap up the long weekend.
- 24th-27th September – Spring weather, Garden Route scenery, packed venues, and a welcoming atmosphere make this one of South Africa’s biggest LGBTQ+ cultural celebrations.
The Pink Loerie Parade
- Saturday 26th September – The always popular street parade starts at 3pm on Sunday and will proceed from Queen Street to Pledge Square and back, followed by a street party.
- Drydock Food Co. will host an After Parade Sunset Ibiza Party for the more mature in the crowd, while the official after party is at Vinyl on Main.
The Venues
- Drydock Food Co – Fine dining restaurant, offering a mouth-watering array of the freshest seafood, tempting salads, fusion cuisine and sinful desserts.
- Vinyl on Main – Small, independent, veteran-owned and operated record store and host to special pop-up parties.
- Villa Castollini – a magnificent Tuscan-style luxury retreat set at the top of Western Head. It features an outdoor pool and a library.
- Knysna Fine Art – Art in various media from South Africa & around the world is showcased in a spacious, historic home.
Where to stay in Knysna
The following hotels are currently trending with our readers. All are close to the Mardi Gras festivities:
Save on Hotels
Knysna is an exclusive destinations
Book now and pay on arrival
Where we stay!
The Rex Hotel is on the Waterfront
and is where our editors stay
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Pink Loerie visit The Website
Gay Map of Knysna
Waterfront Drive, Knysna, Western Cape 6571, South Africa
With an outdoor pool facing the Indian Ocean, Protea Hotel Knysna has spectacular views of the Knysna Lagoon. The stylishly decorated rooms have free WiFi and satellite TV.
All rooms at Protea Hotel Knysna Quays are decorated in warm tones and have large windows. They have a separate bathroom that comes with complimentary deluxe bath products. Some rooms have a lagoon view, others overlook the historic Knysna Railway Station or the Waterfront shopping complex.
Long Street, Knysna, Western Cape 6571, South Africa
Situated at the tip of Thesens Island, Lofts Boutique Hotel offers uniquely themed accommodation and an outdoor splash pool overlooking the Knysna Lagoon. Free private, covered parking is available on site.
The Lofts Boutique Hotel offers contemporary designed rooms decorated with wooden beams. Some rooms have large sliding doors opening to a private balcony or patio. The rooms come with satellite TV, tea/coffee maker and extra long beds.
TH36 Sawtooth Lane, Thesen Islands, Thesen Island , 6571 Knysna, South Africa
This former power station is located in Knysna and offers sunny suites with an iPod docking station and views of the Knysna Lagoon. The spacious sun deck comes with an outdoor pool.
The rooms at Turbine Hotel & Spa are elegantly decorated with light fabrics and parquet floors. The suites have a satellite LCD TV and extra long beds.
Video Of Pink Loerie Festival
Including some great aerial footage!
Recommended Hotels in Knsyna By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Knsyna that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Turbine Hotel & Spa
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-Star, Former Power Station, Knysna Lagoon Views
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- iPod docking station, parquet floors
- Unique setting in a former power station, sunny suites, outdoor pool, a distinctive luxury experience
Knysna River Club
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-Star, Luxury Chalets, Private Jetty
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Fully-equipped kitchen, private balcony
- Offers chalets on the edge of Knysna Lagoon, pool surrounded by trees, perfect for a serene retreat
Thesen Island House
4 Star, Great Value
- 4-Star, Full Kitchen, Sea and Lake Views
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- TV, balcony, dishwasher
- Provides a comfortable stay with sea and lake views, garden, barbecue facilities
The Lofts Boutique
4 Star, Location
- 4-Star, Thesens Island, Lagoon Overlook
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Private balcony or patio, satellite TV
- Located at Thesens Island's tip, rooms with wooden beams, splash pool with lagoon views
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