Cape Town is gearing up for what promises to be a landmark celebration as the official Tweede Nuwe Jaar Festival on Monday, 5 January, prepares to reach historic viewing numbers.
For the first time in its history, the vibrant street parade will be broadcast live on national television, allowing South Africans across the country to experience the spectacle from their homes. The broadcast begins at noon on SABC 2.
“There is an incredible sense of pride, excitement and anticipation among troupes and communities,” said Muneeb Gambeno, spokesperson for the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA), which organizes the event.
A celebration of heritage
Widely regarded as Africa’s largest cultural festival, the Tweede Nuwe Jaar parade showcases the colourful living tradition of the Kaapse Klopse (Cape Minstrels) and bringing together communities in a colourful display of Cape Town’s unique heritage.
Thousands of performers will march from Chiappini Street along a 1.2 km route down Somerset Road, entertaining crowds before entering DHL Stadium. The parade begins at 11:00, with the final troupe expected around 17:00.
The celebration continues at DHL Stadium until 22:00 for the first day of KKKA competitions. Additional competitions will take place at Athlone Stadium starting Saturday, 10 January, drawing an anticipated 20,000 spectators.
Getting there and road closures
Spectators planning to attend should note significant road closures in the Green Point area from 06:00 to 21:00. Major routes affected include Somerset Road, Green Point Main Road, Prestwich Street, Chiappini Street, Ebenezer Road, and Waterkant Street.
Access will be limited to residents, permit holders, hotel guests, and staff. Parking on Green Point side streets is prohibited, and illegally parked vehicles will be towed.
Free public parking is available at P9 and P10 on Bill Peters Drive in Green Point, while paid parking can be found at the V&A Waterfront.
The City of Cape Town’s funding for Minstrel events represents its single largest investment in events overall, reflecting the importance of this cultural celebration to the city’s identity.
Gambeno emphasised that bringing the parade into DHL Stadium demonstrates “how far the tradition has come and affirms its rightful place on the biggest stages in the country.”
The street parade is free to the public, ensuring this cherished tradition remains accessible to all who wish to celebrate.
- The official Tweede Nuwe Jaar celebration is a separate event not to be confused with a process under way to assist the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival Association with available venue dates to host their internal competitions.
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