WITH the R9.1-million Durban beachfront upgrade project nearing completion, the city’s jewel and main tourist attraction will set the stage in March for the inaugural and free to the public, Durban Land, Sea and Air Festival. Taking place from the 20 to 23 March, the spectacle is expected to draw thousands of spectators from KwaZulu-Natal and around the country.
The festival will feature the exhilarating Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics where top national and international aerobatic pilots will perform electrifying manoeuvres through pylons placed on the beachfront piers. This is the first time an event of this kind will take place in South Africa and in an area that is not an airport.
Festival organizer, Brian Emmenis, said, “Out of the five international pilots competing, three are the best aerobatic pilots in the world. As it is a FIA recognised event, the Sky Grand Prix of Aerobatics is internationally recognised as one of a handful of aerobatics events of this scale.”
Displays by the SA Navy and enforcement services, air-themed movies and live music will also have the crowds riveted. Emmenis said, “These displays will be a source of national pride showing the country what South Africa’s national forces have to offer.”
Events of this kind offer great exposure for the host city primarily through local, national and international media exposure and the good visitor and participant experience. The city image is improved and profile raised in the world’s eyes when hosting successful major events.
“Besides the direct economic benefits created through hosting major events such as the influx of visitors, job creation, local business opportunities, and growth and development legacy programmes, the event is used as a tourism marketing platform to encourage visitors to explore and experience other attractions in the region, not only within the city’s immediate surrounds, but those just a few hours away,” said senior manager at eThekwini’s event office, Vivienne Holden.
Durban Chamber of Commerce CEO, Andrew Layman, said the initiative has the potential to add significantly to Durban’s events programme and will draw local supporters as well as visitors from outside the province. “We are keen supporters of the concept of Durban as an events city where the great beaches and other attractions are complemented by exciting and accessible events.” Layman added that events like these are also important as a catalyst to bring local residents together to enjoy a spirit of fellowship and pride,” he said.
The Durban Land, Sea and Air Festival is free to the public. Visit www.landseaairfestival.co.za
