X-TRACT KNYSNA GASTRONOMICA Etymology: French gastronomie, from Greek Gastronomeromia 1. The art or science of good eating. 2. Culinary customs or style. gas-tro-norri'ic also gas-tro-norri'i-cal Text: Thuli Masilo Images: © Knysna Tourism Gastronomica is a veritable feast for the mind, body and soul. It is an event to celebrate good food as the essence of life and as an integral part of enjoyment, culture and festivity. This endeavour to promote all that is extraordinary in food and wine will be taking place from 23 September to 1 October. During this time, a series of ongoing events will be hosted throughout Knysna, with a programme of dedicated events taking place at Thesen Harbour Town. Castronomica Knysna embodies a unique combination of experiences, using food as the vehicle, to develop a way of life that is substantial and meaningful to the community. As such, this annual event incorporates a unique integration of local theatre, music, art, fashion, and, of course, food. This year, Gastronomica's programme is indeed dynamic, as it offers a diverse range of activities for all to enjoy. Highlights include the 'Royal Romance' Fashion Show and High Tea, which sees students from Percy Mdala High School participating in a themed fashion show. Models will undergo an extensive training programme consisting of theoretical and practical projects, including such topics as deportment, self-evaluation, public speaking, event planning, wardrobe planning and so forth. Each selected candidate will write an exam and receive a diploma.
Gastronomica's four day 'Food with Integrity' market will treat guests to tasting, sampling, demonstrations, workshops and sales of natural and organic food. The objective of this market will be to encourage sustainable agricultural practice and community upliftment. Patisserie World Cup gold medallist, En-MingHsu will be hosting a two day hands-on professional 'Chocolate and Patisserie Workshop'. This carefully developed course, which epitomises En-Ming's skill, style and organisational talent, will enlighten all pastry chefs. En-Ming will also act as the President of the Jury, when Gastronomica hosts the second annual National Chocolate and Patisserie Invitational Challenge on the 29th of September. Other exciting events include the 'Salsa, Pesto and Relishes' and 'Fresh from the Sea' demonstrations; the 'New Trends in Meat' hands-on workshop; the 'Kid's Cooking Workshop' and 'Young Chefs Competition' for children; as well as the 'Chef's Party'. A multitude of other culinary courses, demonstrations and workshops will also be available - some for free, and others not. As a celebration of local personalities, culture and talent, Gastronomica invites guests to share, enjoy and unite with food and establish this venture as a self-sustaining annual event. To find out more about the festival, what else is on the programme for this year and to make your bookings, visit www.gastronomicakny.co.za. Thanks to Francesca Maniatis of Knysna Tourism for her assistance in the research of this article. SA Express operates conveniently scheduled flights to George. Book online at www.flysax.com. EXPRESS
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