After months of planning and preparation, the Cape Town Carnival returned to its parade format, on Saturday 18 March, following a four-year hiatus.
Hundreds of spectators lined up on Somerset Road in Green Point to get a glimpse of the more than 1 200 performers and massive floats.
A total of 46 community groups from across the Western Cape participated in the parade, showcasing their talents but all reflecting the 2023 theme of ‘Afr’energy’.
This year marks the 12th edition of the Carnival, which has become an iconic free annual event in the city. It showcases diverse South African cultures, dance genres, art, and creativity.
Spectators were entertained by performers including the Western Province Marching Band, Chinese Community and Bulumko High School, as well as 17 new community groups.
Prof Rachel Jafta, Cape Town Carnival Board chair, says she is elated that the Carnival could proceed following a two-year break.
“I am so happy to be back on the fan walk. Our people have been practising and the vibe is amazing. The dancers are amazing. This year we juggled around different genres. We put Indian dancers and ballet dancers together. The Carnival is everything I hoped for.
“During the pandemic our people kept practising, we did online training. But we didn’t know whether we would be able to come back. So, this is such an affirmation. It’s joyful to be here.”
Jafta thanked the spectators for their support.
“I am overjoyed to see them back. I have seen some of our regulars. I have seen new faces; it is amazing to see how many people came out to enjoy the Carnival.”
During the opening ceremony, the City’s Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews called on Capetonians to share the spirit of Afr’energy.
“Many of the people gathered here this evening are foreigners, so let’s make sure we say hello and give them a warm South African welcome. Let’s show them what our beautiful city has to offer.”
The Isa Mother City Rollers, an artistic roller-skating club, made its debut in the Carnival and performed in the pre-parade.
Group member Megan Peters says: “It’s been hype and it’s been amazing. The crowd is supportive and there’s a happy vibe. We were on rollerblades, so we danced all the way, but it was good.”
Belhar resident Evita Hagland says: “I am here for the first time. I am supporting my mother who is one of the performers.”
Nomafrench Mbombo, Western Cape Minister for Health and Wellness, says the event is a hit on the Cape Town event’s calendar.
“We are boosting the economy and showing support. Because the troops that are performing are the youngsters, they have done a whole lot of preparation and therefore we as leaders should show support.”
Anroux Marais, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sports, says: “This is a wonderful and diverse event. It celebrates our culture and what we are as human beings. For our tourism and economy, it is wonderful to have all the people back in the streets. We have a lot of events happening and all the tourists are here, so it’s wonderful to display what we can offer to the world.”
People’s Post and Media24 are the proud print sponsor of the event.
Aletta Ellis, WP Media Publishing Manager -publishers of People’s Post – says: “This year’s Carnival was a magical experience. A fantastic showcase of the talent in our communities. The WP Media team had a lot of fun making the outfits and want to thank all the spectators for their amazing support on the fan walk in the pre-parade. WP Media team is proud to be associated with the Cape Town Carnival.”
Other sponsors include the Western Cape Government, City of Cape Town, KFM 94.5, Southern Sun, DSTV, MultiChoice and the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.
