30/10/2026
BLACK MOUNTAIN TOURISM EXPO & FESTIVAL KICKS OFF IN FREE STATE
Today, the Free State Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT) in collaboration with the National Department of Tourism is hosting the Black Mountain Tourism Expo and Festival at Thaba Nchu Airport in the Free State.
The Black Mountain Tourism Expo & Festival is a cultural and lifestyle platform that promotes youth development, entrepreneurship, community participation and destination marketing.
The festival is expected to boost the tourism economy in the Free State as it attracts visitors to Thaba Nchu, encourages longer stays in the Mangaung region, increases demand for local tourism offerings and creates direct economic opportunities for accommodation establishments, restaurants, tour operators, transport providers, traders, creatives and community-based enterprises.
The opening ceremony is led by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Makhotso Sotyu, and Kgosi Gaboilelwe Moroka, the traditional leader of the Barolong Boo-Seleka nation in Thaba Nchu, supported by executives from the Free State Provincial Government.
Exhibitions are underway featuring various stakeholders including private institutions, government entities, tourism SMMEs, and community-based enterprises showcasing their products and services.
The Expo forms part of the build-up to the iconic Black Mountain Festival, under the theme: "Empowering Youth, Unlocking Opportunities, Growing Tourism."
