While the scene is set for a busy summer across Cape Town, the festive season will officially kick off on December 1, with the annual Festive Lights Switch-On taking place in the heart of the city.
The public concert on offer at the Grand Parade before the festive lights get lit up is set to be one of the city’s largest free outdoor entertainment events of the summer. The full line-up of performers is due to be announced in the next few weeks.
It’s the 55th year that the event has taken place, and this year’s theme – ‘Cape Town: People of Hope’ – will be reflected in the festival line-up.
‘I remember attending this concert as a little boy, and it’s one of my fondest childhood memories. Above all, this is a wonderful family event for the whole of Cape Town. It’s more than just a celebration of the festive season; it is a celebration of Cape Town’s people – the People of Hope,’ said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. ‘I am always so pleased to see families from every corner of the city coming together to share in the fun and joy of this event. It’s these moments of togetherness that make Cape Town the remarkable city it is – a city of hope, resilience, and opportunity.’
This year's event is going to be brighter and funnier than ever, with the winners of the People of Hope Comedy Competition performing live at the event to bring their best ‘hopeful humour’ to the stage.
The Festive Lights Switch-On takes place on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Grand Parade, in front of City Hall, and on Adderley Street. The event runs from 4 pm – 10 pm, and entry is free.
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