South African Tourism North America teamed up with The Atlanta Hawks for a theme night to celebrate South Africa as the ‘ultimate vacation destination’ during their recent home game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Capitalizing on the excitement surrounding the new non-stop service between Atlanta and both Cape Town and Johannesburg, the Hawks were the first professional sports team in the United States to collaborate with South African Tourism. Throughout the game, the Hawks incorporated the sights and sounds of South Africa into various in-game activations including in-arena advertising, musical performances, menu items, and an interactive prize giveaway.
“We were thrilled to work with South African Tourism to celebrate the country’s unique tourist experiences at State Farm Arena, where our fans were treated to several unique integrations throughout the game,” said Hawks Chief Revenue Officer Andrew Saltzman.
Prior to the game, South African Tourism and the Hawks hosted a happy hour event with key media and travel trade stakeholders to provide destination updates and highlight the ease of connecting Atlanta-area travelers to South Africa via Delta Air Lines’ direct flight options. During the game, the ATL Hawks Dancers performed a dance routine to popular music from South Africa and one lucky fan won a trip to South Africa.
As part of the evening’s food and beverage, State Farm Arena Executive Chef Joe Schafer curated various South African inspired menu items, which were served at the arena’s premium spaces.
“As part of our ongoing programs to promote the Delta Air Lines’ Atlanta-Cape Town/ Johannesburg routes specifically, and destination South Africa more broadly, Visit South Africa is proud to share the message that it has bever been easier for Hawks fans to connect with our vibrant people and unique experiences when they #VisitSouthAfrica,” said Jerry Mpufane, President South African Tourism North America.
From breathtaking beauty to sun-soaked coasts; from wildlife to active adventure; from vibrant, urban energy to the incredible warmth and cultural diversity of its people – South Africa is a traveler’s dream.
Atlanta-area travelers now have two direct flights options to South Africa with the recent addition of Delta Air Lines’ nonstop service between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT). The year-round service operates three times weekly on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. This new route complements Delta's existing service from ATL to O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg (JNB), which now makes a stop in Cape Town upon its return, completing the seasonal 'triangle route.'
For further information on South African Tourism, visit www.southafrica.net.