Cape Town has announced the star lineup for the annual Festive Lights Switch-On event, which is intended to mark the beginning of the festive season. Thousands of visitors will be able to see performances from many beloved artists.
Among the performers are the SAMA award-winning duo Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, who will present music in the Amapiano style. Liquideep will also perform, once again delighting the audience with his classic compositions.
The hip-hop sensation Nasty C will demonstrate his lyrical power on the Grand Parade, while the acclaimed Afrikaans singer and Idols graduate, Monique Steyn, will appear on stage.
Local Cape Town talents will also receive exposure: singer, rapper, actor, and media personality Ricky Vani Frontline from Woodstock will showcase his multifaceted energy. He will perform for the second time at Festive Lights, after thrilling the audience in 2023.
He will be joined by local favorite Dee Koala from Halientshi, known for her bold style and characteristic hip-hop sound. To maintain the high tempo of the party throughout the day, DJ Dre, famous for his popular morning show on Heart FM, Thank Heart It's FriDre, will prepare high-energy mixes and cross-genre sets.
One of South Africa's rising stars, Ben Rodrigues, whose cheerful pop anthems are popular on streaming platforms, will be able to gather thousands of listeners at the Grand Parade and Adderley Street. Cape Town singer and guitarist Vernon White will perform with soulful vocals, acoustic energy, and African flair in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa.
Additional magic will be added by Neon Pulse, who will present a visually impressive LED drum performance on the Festive Lights stage, and West London All Stars will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Mother City, marking the start of the festivities in Cape Town.
Tyrone Paulsen, one of Cape Town's most recognizable voices on air, will join award-winning comedian Dalin Oliver as hosts to keep the excitement going throughout the day and evening, filled with music, entertainment, and festive spirit.
Alderman JP Smith, a member of the Majority Committee for Safety and Security, noted that the event serves not only to kick off the festive season but also to celebrate the past year with anticipation for the new. He stated: 'It is also about bringing people together through what makes Cape Town special: our music, our culture, our creativity, and our incredible talent. This year's lineup promises something for everyone, from established stars to local artists who continue to promote our city. We look forward to welcoming residents and guests to share this excitement, kicking off the festive season in true Cape Town style.'
Return of the dance competition
The annual Festive Lights Switch-On dance competition, which celebrates the creativity, rhythm, and talent of Cape Town residents, will take place again. The competition gives dancers the opportunity to showcase their skills and participate in one of the city's most anticipated annual events.
The top three finalists of the Move with Melody Dance Competition will join the main stage lineup. Before they take the Festive Lights stage, 10 dance groups will compete at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre on November 21, 2026, where the top three will be determined.
Applications for the Move with Melody Dance Competition are open until November 9, 2026. Interested dancers can apply via the Festive Lights Switch-On social media channels. Videos can be uploaded and tagged @CTfestivelights, using the hashtag #FLSODance2026 on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or WhatsApp at 076 179 7047. The event is free to attend. It will take place on Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 16:00 to 22:00.