Events hosted in the Western Cape generated R1,3 billion for its economy in the last financial year, said Alan Winde, Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Tourism at the Wesgro AGM last month.

Close to 200 000 tourists were attracted to the province by the 19 events, which included the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour, the ABSA Cape Epic, the Vodacom Funny Festival, and the Knysna Oyster Festival. The largest money spinners by far for the province in terms of their economic impact are the Cycle Tour (R450 million), Design Indaba (R326 million), and the ABSA Cape Epic (R218 million).

The Minister said that the events list is diverse, reflecting the diversity of the province.  Some events are held in the ‘traditional off-peak season, which is in line with the efforts to ensure the Western Cape is an all-year round destination’.  Unfortunately few of these winter events benefit the tourism industry of the Western Cape, with the exception of the Franschhoek Bastille Continue reading →