Overstrand Tourism has seen a gradual build-up to the festive season with trade increasing steadily to the peak between 15 December 2023 and 7 January.
Overstrand Executive Mayor Dr Annelie Rabie said: “The continued rise in visitor numbers started early this year, the Overstrand experiencing a more equitable geographic spread of economic benefits during our peak festive season.”
Stanford stole the limelight, with festive lights installed by Checkers as part of a seasonal campaign. Close to 10 000 people attended the two Stanford Sunset Markets held on 25 November and 15 December. This record attendance contributed to vendors reporting their best sales ever during December in the existence of the market that was founded in 2006.
A poll conducted by Overstrand Tourism resulted in 70% of respondents reporting increased business performance compared to the booming 2022-’23 festive period, while 22% reported the same performance and 8% informed that their trade was below the previous year’s.
The second Grootbek in Kleinmond entertainment series in December doubled on tickets sold during the previous year. This provided evening leisure, while the Hot Summer of Touch Rugby in Kleinmond brought 32 participating teams to the beach.
Updates on events and happenings were communicated continuously to give visitors a variety of options for filling their holidays. Outdoor activities remain popular with walks in nature, swimming in tidal pools and enjoying the beaches, visiting markets and exploring the region listed as the favourite experiences from enquiries received.
Gansbaai businesses also gave a confident thumbs-up on their business earnings. It was the continuation of a good year, August and October being Kleinbaai Harbour’s busiest months, indicating that although tourist activity may quieten down during June and July, tourism had evened out to a large extent.
This year’s Hermanus Carols presented by Rotary Hermanus was attended by 450 people, a 40% increase from the previous year, when it was held over two nights. Rotary also presented a pageant at Harold Porter Botanical Gardens, Betty’s Bay to a full house of 550 people.
“With the general increased turnover more employment opportunities were created and the circular economy of businesses buying from local business stimulated commerce,” said Rabie. “The financial rewards of a successful tourism season were achieved with hard work and good spirits. For this the Overstrand hospitality sector and dedicated business owners should be applauded.”