Cape Town Festive Lights Switch-On 2025

On Sunday, 30 November 2025, the Mother City came together for one of its most treasured traditions, the 56th edition of the Festive Lights Switch-On. An estimated crowd of hundreds of thousands gathered on the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street as Cape Town lit up the summer sky under the powerful theme, “United in Hope.”

More than just a seasonal celebration, the Festive Lights Switch-On 2025 has evolved into a symbol of resilience, creativity, and community spirit. Over the years, it has become a unifying moment that brings people from all walks of life together, reminding everyone of the beauty found in connection. This year’s theme recognised hope not merely as an emotion, but as a shared civic value that binds communities, cultures, and generations.

A city united in celebration

The atmosphere in the city centre was electric. Families, friends, and visitors filled the streets, dancing, singing, and celebrating the beginning of the festive season. The highly anticipated switch-on moment transformed the city into a glowing spectacle, followed by a breathtaking video mapping display on the façade of the historic City Hall, complete with lights, lasers, and visual storytelling that left the crowd in awe.

Cape Town’s mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, was present on the night, proudly wearing his Festive jersey as he joined the crowds in celebrating this iconic moment and reinforcing the message of unity, joy, and community.

Two powerful community-driven initiatives

The 2025 event was also marked by two inspiring community initiatives. The Cape Town Festive Lights Switch On 2025 “Move and Melody” Competition showcased emerging local dance and vocal talent, giving young performers the opportunity to share the stage in front of a massive live audience.

The "Wear the Hope – Share the Light" project invited Capetonians of all ages to design and create a festive top for the mayor. From upcycled fabrics to crocheted and hand-knitted designs, the initiative highlighted creativity, sustainability and collaboration. The winning piece debuted at the test switch-on and was worn proudly on stage by the mayor on the night of the main event.

A lineup that lit up the stage

Cape Town Festive Lights Switch-On 2025 featured a vibrant and culturally diverse lineup that represented the heartbeat of the city. Artists including Tracey Lang, Kurt Darren, MC Carl Wastie, DJ Masoodah, Good Luck, MC Joe Barber, Karabo Mogane, The Heavenly Quartez, MCs Bubblegum and Boera Jules, Early B and Justin Vega, and the D6 Hanover Minstrels delivered unforgettable performances that kept the crowd energised throughout the evening.

A series of moving tribute performances honouring South African musical icons included Emo Adams, Loukmaan Adams, Alistair Izobell, Jody Abrahams, Sean D Band, Fancy Galada and Street Stylers, adding both nostalgia and meaning to the night.

The show reached its peak when DJ Zinhle took to the stage to close off the evening. Her performance was nothing short of phenomenal, bringing the crowd together in a final, high-energy celebration that perfectly captured the spirit of the night.

Exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes moments

Your Access Entertainment was on the ground capturing it all. We caught up with Kurt Darren, DJ Zinhle, Early B, Emo Adams, and Jules from Good Luck for exclusive interviews. We encourage you to keep an eye on our platforms as we roll out these conversations, along with behind-the-scenes footage and highlights from one of Cape Town’s most memorable nights.

A night that belongs to everyone

Ultimately, the Festive Lights Switch-On is not just about the lights. It is about the people. It is about standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers who become neighbours, sharing joy, and being reminded of the power of togetherness.

In 2025, as Cape Town stood “United in Hope,” the Festive Lights Switch-On once again proved that when a city comes together, its light shines brighter than ever.

Cape Town, you were truly magical.