The City of Cape Town’s events planning department says staff are already hard at work behind the scenes to ensure another spectacular Festive Lights Switch-On Event at the end of November.
The flagship event ushers in the festive season on the Grand Parade each year, with thousands of people flocking to the CBD for the Mother City’s biggest free open-air concert.
Now in its 57th year, the event, on Sunday 29 November, will again feature a star-studded line-up of South African musicians, DJs and entertainers before culminating in the official switch-on of the festive lights along Adderley and Darling streets.
More than 100 000 people attended the 2025 Festive Lights Switch-On across the Grand Parade, Adderley Street and Darling Street, making it the biggest celebration in the event’s history.
The City says it expects another exceptional turnout this year, with the full entertainment programme set to be announced in the coming weeks.
MMC JP Smith says the Festive Lights Switch-On event is one of Cape Town’s most cherished traditions and a celebration that brings people together to mark the start of the festive season.
“For almost six decades, these lights have symbolised hope, joy, and togetherness for generations of residents and visitors, while showcasing the warmth and vibrancy that define our city. After delivering our biggest-ever celebration in 2025, our teams are working behind the scenes to put together a vibrant event programme for another unforgettable evening of entertainment and celebration.”
In the lead-up to the event, residents can once again look forward to a range of exciting activations, including the popular Festive Lights Switch-On Dance Challenge, which showcases the creativity, energy, and talent of Cape Town’s performers.
Further announcements, including the full entertainment line-up and programme details, will be made in the weeks leading up to the 2026 Festive Lights Switch-On.
