The FIFA Fan Fest™

The streets of Cape Town were humming with football supporters today - there were Dutch, Ghanaian and Japanese fans aplenty, particularly at the FIFA Fan Fest™ in central Cape Town. Not surprisingly, there were also lots of Bafana Bafana clad South Africans. Joe Hendricks, at the fest with friend Yolanda Cupido (pictured right) said that he is hopeful about Bafana's prospects, and that no matter what the outcome of their next match against France, he'll still support them.

Dutch supporters, who seem to outnumber all other nationalities (at least in the Mother City), have brightened our streets with their cheery attitude and bright orange outfits. Guido Boelaars and Mark Slaats (pictured right), both from Holland, were only too keen to tell us about their love for their team and how much they are enjoying their stay in South Africa. In Cape Town for a week, these charming young men laughingly told us that they have both grown moustaches in support of their team, "which last won the European championship (in 1988) when they all had moustaches!" When we expressed disbelief, we were invited to pull on their whiskers to test whether they were real! In Holland, said the men, football supporters are encouraged to join in the fun by earning a small fee for their facial hair. This money goes to charity. Visit snoranje.nl for more information.

Also at the Fan Fest were volunteers Baariq Pather, Jill Kempen, Lesogo Peele, Tasneem Shadrach, Ainsley McLean and Robin Cooper (pictured below right) who were starting their evening shifts when we spoke to them. These admirable men and women, who come from all walks of life, mill around the Fan Fest to help tourists with queries. Armed with big smiles and special bibs to distinguish them from the crowd, they help lost tourists, tag children, check for prohibited items (such as umbrellas, see bottom of page for the list) and ensure that no littering takes place. Jill Kempen, a mother of two, said that she, along with Baariq and Lesogo had been seconded from the Vygieskraal Fan Jol. This, she said, is to ensure that there is an equitable spread of workplace venues for the volunteers.

The FIFA Fan Fest™ will be open again tomorrow from 11:00 to 23:00. Catch Robbie Jansen and friends (jazz), Dave Ferguson (harmonica, beat box and vocals) and The Honey Bee.

FIFA Fashion Feature

With so much international flair about at the moment it’s crucial to make sure you’re on the cutting edge of fashion. Be inspired by this feature of Soccer Style, as captured on the streets of cosmopolitan Cape Town…

There’s no such thing as a bad hair day this winter: 

 For a future so bright you’ve got to wear shades: 

Don’t be afraid to be adventurous with make-up. The season’s colours are bright and bold and aren’t only restricted to the face: 

Old School Cool makes a comeback – but remember to accessorise: 

 It’s time to express yourself - let your inner fairy out: 

 For the ultimate leisurewear look, accessorise with a matching beanie, cheek tattoos and a parent: 

But whatever you do, don’t step outdoors without the ultimate accessory of all time:

  

The Biggest Jols in Town

Our Fan Jols open again on Monday 21 June. Take a look at the highlights below or check the fan jol sections of this website for further details.

• Bellville Velodrome: Tucan Tucan, the Country Conquerors Reggae, Kurt Schoonraad?
  
• Swartklip Fan Jol: Cape Flats Tenors, DJ/MC, Ghetto Youths?
  
• Oliver Tambo: DJ/MC, Everlivings, DJ Funafuji?
  
• Vygieskraal: Elouise Ruth, Rossouw, Futureline Arts Academy, Densley Cardiss, The Glenn, Robertson Jazz Band, 12th Avenue, Alan - hypnotist

Restricted/prohibited items

• No weapons, bottles, cups, jugs or cans
• No recording of sound, images or footage other than for private use
• No alcohol or drugs, no racist or xenophobic material e.g. t shirts or flags
• No banners or flags larger than 2 meters x 1.5 meters
• No promotional or commercial material
• No relieving of oneself other than in the toilets or littering
• No gas spray cans, corrosives or anything that could cause fire
• No fireworks
• No standing on seats
• No excessive noise, megaphones, hooters or gas power horns
• Vuvuzelas allowed
• No selling of goods or tickets
• No animals
• Transmitting or broadcasting of sound, pictures, descriptions or results of the events via the internet or other forms of media
• No objects which could compromise public safety
  
  

All children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.