Cape Town Festive Lights Switch-On 2026: Full line-up announced - IOL
The 57th annual Festive Lights Switch-On will take place on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street in the Cape Town CBD. Running from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.,
The annual Festive Lights Switch-On is on your doorstep, and the City of Cape Town has promised a star-studded line-up to usher in the festive season.
Thousands attending the event will see some of their favourites on stage.
Leading the charge is SAMA award-winning duo Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, who will be bringing the Amapiano vibes. While recently reunited, Liquideep will be hitting festival-goers with some classics that still hit deep.
Hip-hop sensation Nasty C will also be bringing his lyrical powers to the stage at the Grand Parade, and acclaimed Afrikaans singer and Idols alum Monique Steyn will also take to the stage.
Cape Town’s homegrown talent will also be in the spotlight, with Woodstock-born singer, rapper, actor and social media personality Ricky Vani Frontline bringing his signature versatility and energy to the show.
The leader of Amafront will be making his second appearance at Festive Lights, having sent the crowd into a frenzy during his 2023 performance.
Joining him is a local favourite and Khayelitsha’s own Dee Koala, known for her bold style and distinctive hip-hop sound.
Keeping the party moving through the day is DJ Dre, known for his popular Heart FM's breakfast show, Thank Heart It's FriDre. DJ Dre will deliver high-energy mixes and cross-genre sets.
With his feel-good pop anthems captivating audiences across streaming platforms, one of South Africa’s rising stars, Ben Rodrigues, is set to have thousands singing along at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street.
Cape Town-based singer and guitarist Vernon White will take to the stage with soulful vocals, acoustic energy and African flavour in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa.
Adding extra sparkle to the festivities are Neon Pulse, who will deliver high-impact LED drumming and a visually stunning performance to the Festive Lights stage, while the West London All Stars will bring a taste of the Mother City's rich culture as Cape Town kicks off the festive season.
One of Cape Town's most recognisable voices on the airwaves, Tyrone Paulsen, will team up with award-winning comedian Dalin Oliver, as MCs, to keep the excitement flowing and guide audiences through an afternoon and evening packed with music, entertainment, and festive cheer.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, said the event is not only about ushering in the festive season, but also about celebrating the year that has passed while looking forward to a new one.
“It is also about bringing people together through the things that make Cape Town special: Our music, our culture, our creativity and our incredible talent. This year’s line-up promises something for everyone, from established stars to the homegrown performers who continue to put our city on the map. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to share in the excitement as we kick off the festive season in true Cape Town style,” Smith said.
The Festive Lights Switch-On's annual dance competition, which celebrates creativity, rhythm and talented Capetonians, is back.
The competition allows dancers to showcase their skills and share in the excitement of one of the city’s most anticipated annual events.
The top three finalists from the Move with Melody Dance Competition will join the line-up on the main stage.
Before the top three take to the Festive Lights stage, 10 dance crews will compete at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre on November 21, 2026, where the top three will be selected.
Entries for the Move with Melody Dance Competition are open until November 9, 2026. Aspiring dance stars can enter through the Festive Lights Switch-On social media platforms.
Post your video entries and tag @CTfestivelights; use the hashtag #FLSODance2026 on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or WhatsApp to 076 179 7047.
The event is free for everyone to enjoy.
The event takes place on Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 4pm until 10pm.
