Pink Loerie Mardi Gras
& Arts Festival 2026

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:

Turbine Hotel,   Madison Manor,   38 Crab Claw,   Augusta Bay.