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Cape Town’s iconic Tweede Nuwe Jaar parade is taking place this year against a backdrop of heightened public debate, following a series of venue, logistical and scheduling challenges.
The official parade takes place on Monday, 5 January, and is organised by the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA). Despite the broader discourse, the event proceeds as planned and will reach a historic milestone, with the street parade being broadcast live on national television for the first time, airing on SABC 2 from 12:00.
As a tradition, Tweede Nuwe Jaar holds deep cultural significance for many of Cape Town’s coloured communities. Dating back more than a century, the celebration is rooted in the history of the city’s formerly enslaved people. Originally marking the first day off after New Year’s Day, it has evolved into a powerful expression of heritage, music and resistance, with Kaapse Klopse troupes parading through the city in brightly coloured satin suits and painted faces.
There is no denying the event has evolved into a tourist drawcard over the years. However, concerns have been raised by some locals that the weekday scheduling limits access for those who are unable to take time off work to attend.
In a separate and unrelated matter, the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival Association (CTMCA) - a different organisation from the KKKA - has initiated legal action against the City of Cape Town following the withdrawal of approval to use Vygieskraal Stadium for its internal competitions.
The City has confirmed that this dispute has no bearing on the official Tweede Nuwe Jaar parade on 5 January, stating it is committed to supporting minstrel traditions, while ensuring all events comply with safety and legislative requirements. It has also indicated that it is working with compliant organisations to identify suitable medium-risk venues for future competitions.
All of this has once again highlighted fragmentation within the broader minstrel event landscape and renewed calls for clearer coordination and communication to honour this important tradition.
Tweede Nuwe Jaar event details: What you need to know
If you plan to attend the live event, here's what you need to take note of.
Thousands of performers are expected to march from Chiappini Street along a 1.2 km stretch of Somerset Road towards the DHL Stadium, where competitions continue until around 22:00. The street parade starts at 11:00 and the final troupe is expected in the corridor by about 17:00.
Road closures and access
Expect significant disruption in the Green Point area as several major routes will be closed on the day of the event from early morning. Roads affected include Somerset Road, Green Point Main Road, Prestwich Street, Chiappini Street, Ebenezer Road and Waterkant Street, with closures typically running from 06:00 to 21:00. Access during closures will be limited to residents, permit holders, hotel guests and staff.
Parking and spectator advice
No street parking is allowed on Green Point side streets, with illegally parked vehicles to be towed. Free public parking is available in P9 and P10 on Bill Peters Drive, and additional paid parking is offered at the V&A Waterfront in its open-air and underground facilities.
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