Cape Town – The streets of Cape Town came alive at the weekend as the Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade cemented its place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Drawing an incredible 75 000 plus spectators, on Saturday, (4 January 2025), the rebranded parade proved once again why it remains one of Africa’s largest and most beloved annual cultural festivals.
A Day of Music, Colour, and Community
From the historic District Six, right to the vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap, the Hollywoodbets Purple Mile was filled with the joyful sounds of Ghoema music, dazzling sequins, and the unmistakable energy of the Kaapse Klopse troupes.
The parade showcased over 20 000 minstrels and a total of 22 troupes participated, each delivering jaw-dropping performances that celebrated the rich heritage and unity of Cape Town’s communities.
“It was an absolute privilege to see Cape Town’s people and visitors embrace this iconic tradition with such enthusiasm,” said Riyaad Peters, Operations Director for the Cape Town Street Parade.
“The troupes poured their hearts into their performances, and the joy and pride were palpable along every part of the route,” he said.
The main stage on Grand Parade, set against the backdrop of City Hall, hosted live music and festivities throughout the day.
Spectators sang, danced, and celebrated together, proving that this event is not just about the Kaapse Klopse but about bringing people together in a spirit of unity and joy.
Minstrel troupes from all over Cape Town continued the long-standing custom which has been observed in the region for more than 100 years.
Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, who opened the festivities, said: “It was wonderful to see the thousands of locals, nationals, and international visitors being able to immerse themselves in culture and experience true authentic Cape Town.
“On behalf of the City of Cape Town, I would like to thank all the 20 000 performers for providing a vibrant showcase of this longstanding tradition and to those who work to keep its legacy alive for future generations.”
A Cultural Legacy
The Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade is more than just an event- it’s a cornerstone of Cape Town’s cultural identity.
The rebranding of the traditional Tweede Nuwe Jaar Parade has breathed new life into this cherished tradition, making it accessible to even more people and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
This year’s parade also showcased the power of community and creativity.
From the intricately designed costumes to the expertly choreographed performances, each element reflected months of dedication and teamwork by the troupes.
Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager, Devin Heffer shared: “We were absolutely thrilled to witness the radiant smiles and pure joy lighting up the faces of tens of thousands of people at this year’s spectacular Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade.
“It’s a moment that fills us with immense pride, knowing that this iconic event is more than just a dazzling celebration on Cape Town’s cultural calendar, it’s a platform that empowers local SMMEs, stimulates job creation, and transforms lives within our communities.
“At Hollywoodbets, making a meaningful difference is at the heart of everything we do.
“The Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade beautifully encapsulates our commitment to uplifting the communities we serve and showcases our unwavering dedication as a proudly South African company.”
It was a double celebration for the Klopse fraternity as the Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade 2025 event coincides with the 21st anniversary of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association.
The festivities Continue
While the Hollywoodbets Cape Town Street Parade was a resounding success, the excitement doesn’t stop there.
The Hollywoodbets and KKKA Annual Kaapse Klopse Competitions at Athlone Stadium are still underway and DAY 2 of the Stadium Competitions take place on Saturday 11 January – after DAY 1 was a resounding success of January 1st.
The 18 participating troupes will be split into two sections. Troupes from Section 1 will compete for top honours on January 11th and 25th while Section 2 troupes will battle it out against each other on January 18th and February 1st.
With over 13 500 spectators attending each week to see their favourite troupes in action, this week will see the following categories take place for Section 1:
- Adult/Senior Sentimental
- Female Sentimental
- Junior Sentimental
- English Combined Chorus
- Afrikaans Mopie/Comic Song
Competing troupes this week include: West London All Stars, Baruch Entertainers, Playaz Inc, Posh Vibrant, Wesbank Youth Entertainers, TV Stars, and Phantoms Community Development.
Be sure to catch the remaining competitions as the troupes battle it out for top honours ensuring the spirit of Ghoema continues to thrive.
Everyone is welcome to come to support their teams in person, with tickets ranging between R30 and R60 each available through Computicket.
Please note that no tickets will be sold at the venue.
Gates will open at 11:00 every week via the P1, P2 and P3 turnstiles at Athlone Stadium.
The Main Stage Entertainment will commence at 11:30 before the first competition day category kicks off at 13:05.
