| More than 100 000 Capetonians unite to celebrate Festive Lights Switch-On | More than 100 000 Capetonians unite to celebrate Festive Lights Switch-On | | <img alt="" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/FLSO%2011225%20Adderley%20Street%20lights.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | <p>Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says Capetonians showed amazing unity and Christmas spirit, with more than 100 000 festival-goers attending the Festive Lights Switch-on across the Grand Parade, Adderley Street and Darling Street. With warm weather, clear skies and an electrifying programme of live entertainment, the final Sunday of November delivered a celebration worthy of its theme: United in Hope. </p> | <span>
<p>‘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. </p>
<p>‘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.
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<figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"><img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/FLSO%2011225City%20Hall%20United%20In%20Hope%20projection.jpg" alt="" style="width:800px;" /></figure></span><span>
<p>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.</p>
<p>Stars Lit Up the Stage</p>
<p>Some of South Africa’s biggest names delivered unforgettable performances, with the crowd singing and dancing from start to finish.<br>This year’s line-up featured:</p><ul><li>DJ Zinhle – Africa’s premier female DJ and headline act</li><li>GoodLuck – internationally acclaimed electro-pop trio</li><li>Early B & Justin Vega – dynamic rap-meets-dance-floor duo</li><li>Kurt Darren – beloved hitmaker and crowd favourite</li><li>Tarryn Lamb – award-winning vocalist and performer</li><li>Karabo Mogane – soulful Idols SA winner</li><li>The Heavenly Quartez – uplifting Cape gospel group</li><li>District Six Hanover Minstrel Group – celebrating heritage and culture</li><li>SVNS dancers, Bubblegum & Boera Jules, and an array of comedic and dance performances, including moves from the FLSO 2025 Move with Melody Dance Winners.</li></ul>
<p>A Magical Switch-On Moment</p>
<p>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.</p>
<figure class="subtopic-fullsize-img"><img class="responsive" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Images%202/FLSON%2011225Switch%20on%20moment%20GHL%20cheer.jpg" alt="" style="width:852px;" /></figure></span>
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<br>One of the evening’s most powerful moments was the projection 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. </p><p>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.</p><p>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.<br><br><br>Caption 1: Mayor about to press the lights switch-on button<br><br>Caption 2: City Hall – United in Hope projection
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