If you were looking for a sure-fire sign that summer has hit Cape Town, here it comes: the HSBC SVNS pulls into the Mother City’s DHL Stadium this weekend for two days of food, music, parties… and a side order of world-class seven-a-side rugby.
Let’s start with the sport.
Across two days (December 9-10) the DHL Stadium will host some of the world’s best seven-a-side teams – both male and female – to deliver a festival of fast-paced rugby action.
And South Africa’s very own Blitzboks are riding high, after starting their World Rugby SVNS series campaign with a win in Dubai this past weekend, claiming their fifth consecutive title in the United Arab Emirates.
‘This tournament manages to bring supporters from all over the world together in a massive celebration of Rugby Sevens,’ says SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer. ‘The setting, the wonderful stadium, the hospitality and love for rugby from the fans bring a unique Cape Town experience to the tournament and with 24 of the world's best teams in action, they can expect the best of two worlds – brilliant athletes on display in a brilliant environment and atmosphere.’
Because off the field, this year there’s more focus on entertainment than ever
There will be plenty of live music in both the stadium bowl and festival areas outside, from dance floor queen DJ Zinhle – Africa's number-one female DJ for more than four years running – to cross-cultural rapper Jack Parow.
Also on the bill is electronic star Pierre Johnson, while Sun-El Musician, renowned for his unmistakable brand of Afro-House and electronic fusion, will join the party on Sunday, December 10.
Across the HSBC SVNS precinct, you’ll find roaming performers and karaoke action, along with a fancy dress catwalk and the chance to challenge your mates to a fitness test in the Turf Games. Also keep an eye out for the Red Bull Moto-X stunt.
All in all, it’s a festive weekend of music, food, costumes and a little bit of the most beautiful game of them all.
Tickets start from R150 and are available on Ticketmaster.