Nasty C, Liquideep and more: Cape Town's Festive Lights Switch-On line-up revealed

Cape Town, it's officially that time of year - sleigh bells, Mariah and all the tinselled chaos in between.

Of course, a seasonal highlight to look forward to is the annual Festive Lights Switch-On, taking place on Sunday, 29 November 2026, with six hours of free entertainment at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street.

The City of Cape Town has announced the entertainment line-up, and it's banging!  

Leading the line-up is SAMA Award-winning duo Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, bringing their Amapiano hits to the stage, alongside hip-hop heavyweight Nasty C.  Also making an appearance is the recently reunited Liquideep, the electronic music duo behind hits including Fairytale, Still and Alone.

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But it's not just the big names getting the spotlight.

Cape Town's own Dee Koala will bring her distinctive Khayelitsha-rooted hip-hop sound to the Grand Parade. At the same time, Woodstock-born entertainer Ricky Vani Frontline returns for his second Festive Lights performance after making quite an impression in 2023.  

The line-up also includes Afrikaans singer Monique Steyn, rising pop star Ben Rodrigues, Cape Town singer and guitarist Vernon White, DJ Dre from Heart FM, Neon Pulse and the West London All Stars.

Keeping the show moving will be MCs Tyrone Paulsen and comedian Dalin Oliver.  

Cape Town's dancers get their moment

The annual Move with Melody Dance Competition also returns, giving local dance crews a chance to perform on one of the city's biggest stages.  

Ten crews will compete at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre on 21 November, with the top three earning a spot in the main Festive Lights Switch-On programme.

Entries close on 9 November 2026. To enter, dancers can post a video tagging @CTfestivelights and using #FLSODance2026 on Instagram, TikTok or Facebook. Entries can also be submitted via WhatsApp to 076 179 7047. 

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A free celebration for the whole city

The annual switch-on is one of Cape Town's biggest festive traditions, bringing thousands of residents and visitors into the city centre for live music, entertainment and the lighting of Adderley Street.

According to the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, the event is as much about celebrating Cape Town's creativity and cultural identity as it is about welcoming the festive season.  

'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,' said Smith.

With a mix of Amapiano, hip-hop, pop, electronic music and homegrown talent, there's plenty of reason to head into town.

And the best part? It won't cost you a cent. 

Cape Town Festive Lights Switch-On 2026: What you need to know

• Date: Sunday, 29 November 2026
• Time: 4pm–10pm
• Where: Grand Parade and Adderley Street, Cape Town CBD
• Cost: Free
• Entertainment: Nasty C, Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, Liquideep, Dee Koala, Ricky Vani Frontline and more.

Time Out Tip: Expect a busy city centre. Arrive early, consider public transport and allow extra time for road closures and parking restriction. We'll keep you updated closer to the time.