‘Crowds who filled the Grand Parade, Adderley Street and Green Market Square last night were treated to one of the best Festive Lights switch-on celebrations yet.
Also read: Kaapstad beplan vir besige November
‘This year, we had one of our highest attendances ever as more than 100 000 people came to enjoy the music and the incredible vibe. It was truly a joy to spend the evening with so many Capetonians, and especially so many families, having a great time. This is a 56 year Cape Town tradition, and one that we will celebrate forever. These lights are so much more than just decorations – they also symbolise the hope, joy, unity and potential of our beautiful city,’ said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
From early afternoon, families, friends and visitors streamed into the city centre to enjoy a vibrant showcase of music, dance and culture. The festive energy spilled far beyond the Grand Parade as crowds gathered in surrounding streets to soak up the atmosphere, creating one of the most memorable opening nights to the festive season in years.
Stars Lit Up the Stage
Some of South Africa’s biggest names delivered unforgettable performances, with the crowd singing and dancing from start to finish.
This year’s line-up featured:
- DJ Zinhle – Africa’s premier female DJ and headline act
- GoodLuck – internationally acclaimed electro-pop trio
- Early B & Justin Vega – dynamic rap-meets-dance-floor duo
- Kurt Darren – beloved hitmaker and crowd favourite
- Tarryn Lamb – award-winning vocalist and performer
- Karabo Mogane – soulful Idols SA winner
- The Heavenly Quartez – uplifting Cape gospel group
- District Six Hanover Minstrel Group – celebrating heritage and culture
- SVNS dancers, Bubblegum & Boera Jules, and an array of comedic and dance performances, including moves from the FLSO 2025 Move with Melody Dance Winners.
A Magical Switch-On Moment
As twilight settled, Mayor Hill-Lewis, wearing his newly revealed Festive Season jersey designed by Wear the Hope Challenge winner Marnus Botha, stepped up for the magical switch-on moment of the city’s festive lights.
One of the evening’s most powerful moments was theprojection mapping on City Hall. Through striking 3D visuals, music and historical storytelling, the installation paid homage to the resilience, memory and spirit of Cape Town in all her forms.
Thanks to extensive planning by the City’s Safety and Security teams, supported by SAPS and event personnel, the celebration unfolded smoothly. Extended public transport services ensured that families could travel safely to and from the city centre.
With star performances, glowing lights, fireworks, and more than 100 000 people joining in celebration, Cape Town welcomed the festive season exactly as it should – joyfully, vibrantly, and United in Hope.
Also read: Kaapstad beplan vir besige November
