Cape Town is ready to light up the season with the City’s flagship Festive Lights Switch-On event, bringing an exciting musical roster that will usher in the joyous season in the heart of the Mother City.

Leading the charge is SAMA award-winning duo Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, who will bring their infectious summer hits and amapiano flair to the Festive Lights stage. Adding to the excitement is the recently reunited Liquideep, the award-winning electronic music duo behind some of South Africa’s most memorable hits such as “Fairytale”, “Still” and “Alone”.

Bringing an undeniable stage presence and lyrical fire to the Grand Parade is multi-award-winning hip-hop heavyweight Nasty C. Acclaimed Afrikaans singer and Idols alumni Monique Steyn will also take to the Festive Lights stage.

Cape Town’s homegrown talent will also be in the spotlight, with Woodstock-born singer, rapper, actor and social media personality Ricky Vani Frontline bringing his signature versatility and energy to the show.

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The leader of Amafront will be making his second appearance at Festive Lights, having sent the crowd into a frenzy during his 2023 performance. Joining him is a local favourite and Khayelitsha’s own Dee Koala, known for her bold style and distinctive hip-hop sound rooted in the area.

Named one of The Plug magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Urban Culture, Dee Koala brings infectious energy and a sound that connects with audiences across generations, cementing her place as one of Cape Town’s most exciting hip-hop talents.

Keeping the party moving through the day is DJ Dre, known for his popular Heart FM breakfast show, featuring “Thank Heart It’s FriDre”. DJ Dre will deliver high-energy mixes and cross-genre sets, showcasing why he has remained a mainstay of Cape Town’s nightclub and events scene for more than two decades.

Rising stars and cultural performances

With his feel-good pop anthems captivating audiences across streaming platforms, one of South Africa’s rising stars, Ben Rodrigues, is set to have thousands singing along at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street.

Cape Town-based singer and guitarist Vernon White will take to the stage with soulful vocals, acoustic energy and African flavour in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa.

Adding even more sparkle to the festivities are Neon Pulse, who will deliver high-impact LED drumming and a visually stunning performance to the Festive Lights stage, while the West London All Stars will bring a taste of the Mother City’s rich culture as Cape Town kicks off the festive season.

One of Cape Town’s most recognisable voices on the airwaves, Tyrone Paulsen, will team up with award-winning comedian Dalin Oliver as joint MCs to keep the excitement flowing and guide audiences through an afternoon and evening packed with music, entertainment, and festive cheer.

“The Festive Lights Switch-On is not only about ushering in the festive season, but also about celebrating the year that has passed while looking forward to a new one,” said JP Smith, the City’s Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security.

“It is also about bringing people together through the things that make Cape Town special: its music, culture, creativity and incredible talent. This year’s line-up promises something for everyone, from established stars to the homegrown performers who continue to put our city on the map. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to share in the excitement as we kick off the festive season in true Cape Town style.”

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Move with Melody Dance

The Festive Lights Switch-On’s annual dance competition, which celebrates creativity, rhythm and talented Capetonians, is back this year.

The competition gives dancers an opportunity to show off their skills and share in the excitement of one of the city’s most anticipated annual events.
The top three finalists from the Move with Melody Dance Competition will join the line-up on the main stage.

Before the top three takes to the Festive Lights stage 10 dance crews will compete at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre on Saturday 21 November, where the top three will be selected. Entries for the Move with Melody Dance Competition are open until Monday 9 November. Aspiring dance stars can enter through the Festive Lights Switch-On social media platforms.

Post your video entry and tag @CTfestivelights, use the hashtag #FLSODance2026 on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or WhatsApp your entry to 076 179 7047.

• The Festive Lights Switch-On is a free event for everyone to enjoy entertainment, live music, sing along, dance and celebrate as the city lights up for the festive season. The event takes place on Sunday 29 November. The entertainment is from 16:00 until 22:00.
• For more information on events taking place in Cape Town, visit eventsincapetown.com.