Cape Town’s popular Festive Lights Switch-On gets a date for 2026
· The South African
One of Cape Town’s most beloved annual traditions is making its return, with the City confirming that the 2026 Festive Lights Switch-On will take place this November.
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Now in its 57th year, the free event will once again transform the Grand Parade and surrounding city centre into a vibrant celebration of music, entertainment and festive cheer as Cape Town officially welcomes the holiday season.
The six-hour celebration will run from 16:00 to 22:00 and is expected to draw another massive crowd after more than 100 000 people attended last year’s record-breaking event.
Cape Town’s biggest free open-air concert
The Festive Lights Switch-On has become one of the city’s biggest annual attractions, bringing together residents and visitors for an evening of live entertainment before the official illumination of the festive lights.
This year’s event will once again feature a line-up of South African musicians, DJs and entertainers, with the full programme expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The celebrations will culminate in the switch-on of the iconic festive lights along Adderley Street and Darling Street.
More than just festive lights
In addition to the lighting ceremony, visitors can look forward to several popular attractions returning in 2026.
These include:
- A spectacular video mapping projection on Cape Town City Hall.
- The return of the popular Festive Lights Switch-On Dance Challenge.
- The unveiling of the Mayor’s official festive outfit.
- The Wear the Hope Challenge, inviting residents to design a festive jersey, shirt or pullover that the mayor will wear during the event.
The City said these initiatives celebrate Cape Town’s creativity, diversity and local talent while adding to the festive atmosphere.
Building on a record-breaking year
The 2025 Festive Lights Switch-On was the biggest in the event’s history, attracting more than 100 000 people across the Grand Parade, Adderley Street and Darling Street.
The City is expecting another exceptional turnout this year.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said the event has become one of Cape Town’s most cherished traditions, bringing communities together while symbolising hope, joy and togetherness.
He added that City teams are already working behind the scenes to deliver another memorable celebration.
Event details
Date: Sunday, 29 November 2026
Time: 16:00 to 22:00
Venue: Grand Parade, in front of City Hall, and Adderley Street, Cape Town
Cost: Free
The City said further announcements, including the full entertainment line-up and programme, will be made in the weeks leading up to the event.