As NPO the Tshwane Tourism Association (TTA) prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary, anticipation is building for the Tshwane Tourism Showcase 2026 taking place on January 23, 2026, at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria.

Now in its seventh year, the showcase has become a defining event on the capital’s tourism calendar and a meeting point for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, government representatives and travel enthusiasts united by a shared vision of growth and innovation.

“The Tshwane Tourism Showcase is alive with collaboration,” says Susan Marais, TTA chairperson. “Every year, we see new partnerships, fresh ideas, and renewed energy across our local tourism landscape. Growth happens when we work together.”

The 2026 showcase will highlight TTA’s flagship campaigns, The Wildest Capital and The Safest Capital City, both aimed at positioning Pretoria as a dynamic and desirable tourism destination.

The Tshwane metro, a proud event partner, will once again sponsor the Sustainability Village, a space dedicated to supporting small, local tourism enterprises.

Among the diverse exhibitors taking part are three establishments that perfectly capture the spirit of Pretoria’s tourism scene: Adventure Zone Cullinan, Le Bon Goût Café, and The Blades Hotel.

For Adventure Zone Cullinan, its participation is about more than exposure; it is about connection.

“We are excited to attend the Tshwane Tourism Showcase,” says marketing manager Carien Davel. “It is an excellent platform to strengthen our position as leaders in adventure tourism and to gain visibility within the local tourism community. This event allows us to connect directly with other industry leaders, business owners and tourism enterprises.”

Adventure Zone’s story began in the historic diamond-mining town of Cullinan, northeast of Pretoria, where natural gorges and bushveld landscapes offered the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure.

Over the years, the company has grown into one of South Africa’s most recognised adventure destinations, offering ziplining, quad biking, abseiling and team-building experiences. Its famous zipline is among the longest and fastest in the country, with lines stretching up to 570m and reaching speeds of 100km per hour.

“We believe that collaboration and partnerships are key to sustainable growth in tourism,” Davel continues. “This showcase gives us the chance to build new relationships, exchange valuable ideas, and inspire others to see adventure tourism as an essential part of Tshwane’s appeal.”

With its rustic charm, Le Bon Goût Café in Centurion brings a different kind of adventure, one of taste and creativity.

Located at The Big Red Barn, surrounded by tranquil farmland, this French-inspired café, restaurant and gelato shop has quickly become a local favourite since its opening earlier this year.

Owner Jeanne-Mari Botha says she is looking forward to being part of the showcase.

“It is such a good way to start the year. I love being involved, working with other businesses, and seeing everyone grow stronger together. It is a day filled with like-minded people who share a passion for hospitality and who are overcoming the same challenges.”

Botha describes her café as ‘a little taste of France in the countryside’ and a place where guests can slow down, enjoy good food, and reconnect.

“Life is too rushed. We wanted to create a space where people can relax, enjoy, and feel spoiled.”

The menu reflects Botha’s love for culinary artistry, featuring signature dishes like salmon trout breakfast.

From a modest dream shared between Jeanne-Mari and her husband, Christo, also a foodie and constant supporter, the café took 18 months to bring to life.

Today, it stands as a reflection of her journey through what she calls the ‘culinary rabbit hole’, a place of discovery, joy, and hospitality.

Meanwhile, just outside the city in Roodeplaat, The Blades Hotel continues to blend luxury with legacy.

“We are looking forward with great excitement to participating in the Tshwane Tourism Showcase,” says Madelein Geier, the hotel’s marketing manager. “Our involvement at the CSIR in January offers an excellent platform to share what The Blades represents.”

The Blades’ story is one of transformation. Founded in 2004 by members of the Old Eds Rowing Club, it began as a modest boathouse on the banks of Roodeplaat Dam, where national rowers, including future Olympic gold medallist Sizwe Ndlovu, once trained. As interest grew, the founders envisioned a sustainable business that could support athletes while promoting their love of the water. By 2006, the site had evolved into a fully-fledged hospitality venture.

The hotel’s lakeside setting continues to attract rowers, corporate clients, and families alike.

“The story of the four rowers still lives on,” Geier smiles. “And yes, we still welcome rowing enthusiasts and regatta participants. Our guests love our outdoor firepit areas as they are perfect for sunset cocktails or a true African braai.

Marais concludes, “The showcase reminds us why we do what we do. It is about connection between people, businesses, and communities. It is where stories meet, ideas grow, and the future of Tshwane tourism takes shape.”

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