Cape Town - Some of South Africa’s top artists are set to perform at the annual switching on of the festive lights ceremony in Cape Town on Sunday.
Legendary jazz musician Jimmy Dludlu, songbird Lira, hip-hop master DJ Ready D and pop band Freshlyground, who will also be debuting their new album Take Me to the Dance, are part of the line-up at the Grand Parade.
Mayor Patricia de Lille will switch on the festive lights in Adderley Street, marking the official start of the festive season in the city. Local performers including comedian Emo Adams, Zayn Adam and Mynie Grove are also expected to entertain.
This year’s theme is “Our City, Our People”.
The performances will start at 3pm. De Lille will switch on the lights at 8pm, which will be followed by dazzling fireworks and laser light displays. Three LED screens in Adderley Street will enable spectators to follow the action on stage. The night will end with a street parade.
“The festive lights switch-on event is very close to the hearts of all Capetonians and every year we aim to provide the best stage performances possible,” De Lille said. “We think this year’s line-up will take it to the next level.”
Table Mountain will also be officially inducted as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of Nature on Sunday with a special tribute float and performance. Late musical icons Brenda Fassie and Taliep Pietersen will be celebrated at the event. The MyCiTi bus service times will be extended on the day with the last bus departing the civic centre at 11pm.
The lights will stay on until the end of January.
Cape Argus