The Tshwane Tourism Association (TTA) is experiencing a busy final quarter of 2026, with initiatives focused on tourism promotion, industry networking, community upliftment and developing future opportunities.

From its annual Sports Day and the vibrant Tshwane in Bloom, Think Purple campaign to student engagement and preparations for the 2027 Tshwane Tourism and Hospitality Showcase, the association continues to bring the tourism and hospitality industry together.

According to TTA chairperson Susan Marais, these projects demonstrate the importance of collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to showcasing Tshwane as a diverse and attractive tourism destination.

”The final quarter of the year is always an important time for our industry. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate what we have achieved, strengthen relationships with our members and partners, support our communities and create momentum for the year ahead. Tourism thrives when we work together, and TTA remains committed to creating opportunities that benefit our members and the wider Tshwane economy,” said Marais.

Sports day backs youth empowerment

One highlight of the season was the TTA Sports Day 2026, held in October at the Wingate Park Country Club in Pretoria. The event brought together tourism and hospitality professionals for a day of friendly competition, networking and entertainment.

Participants competed in golf, padel and bowls, creating an opportunity for colleagues, business owners and industry partners to connect outside their usual professional environments.

With warm weather, plenty of laughter and a healthy dose of competitive spirit, the day celebrated the relationships that underpin Tshwane’s tourism sector.

The entertainment added another memorable dimension to the occasion. Singer Nadine performed during the evening, entertaining guests and contributing to the festive atmosphere. She also helped facilitate an auction, supporting the day’s fundraising efforts with products from her Vellies range of leather goods.

A portion of the proceeds was donated to People Upliftment Programme (POPUP), an organisation committed to youth empowerment and community development in South Africa.

To Marais, this charitable component highlighted the role tourism businesses can play in supporting social development and making a meaningful difference in their communities.

Jacaranda season inspires spring campaign

October is synonymous with jacaranda season in Pretoria, when the city’s iconic trees transform the streets into a spectacular display of purple blossoms.

TTA used this seasonal attraction to encourage residents and visitors to discover Tshwane’s tourism offerings through its Tshwane in Bloom, Think Purple campaign.

The initiative highlights tourism and hospitality businesses that have developed special offers, packages and experiences inspired by the jacaranda season.

Featured experiences include The Jacaranda Affair afternoon tea at Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate, with themed sweet and savoury treats, including violet macarons, blueberry friands and lavender velvet cake, complemented by floral and berry-inspired teas.

”’Think Purple’ is an excellent example of how we can turn a seasonal attraction into an opportunity for tourism growth,” said Marais.

Nurturing future industry professionals

Developing the next generation of tourism professionals remains an important priority for TTA. Student engagement creates opportunities to introduce young people to the industry, expose them to career possibilities and encourage greater collaboration between educational institutions and tourism businesses.

By connecting students with industry stakeholders at the end of October, the association aims to strengthen the link between education and practical experience while helping young people understand the diverse opportunities available in tourism and hospitality.

As preparations for the new year gather momentum, TTA is inviting tourism and hospitality businesses, industry professionals, stakeholders and members of the public to participate in the Tshwane Tourism and Hospitality Showcase 2027.

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