From Klopse vibrance to Pride rainbow: Cape Town welcomes everyone
After the success of the Kaapse Klopse parade on Saturday, Cape Town is already preparing for its next street parade.
Following the highly successful Kaapse Klopse street parade in Cape Town on Saturday, 4 January 2025, the city is now preparing for its next major event. The Pride Parade and Mardi Gras are scheduled for March 2025.
Successful 2025 Kaapse Klopse parade
“This year’s event was a spectacle, full of culture, colour and celebration. Cape Town, you’ve truly outdone yourself.”
Cape Town Tourism
The Kaapse Klopse parade is a cultural event that has its roots in the early days of colonisation and slavery in the Cape when people brought slaves to Cape Town from various parts of the world. Many of these slaves spoke different languages and had little in common except for their shared experience of slavery. During New Year’s, the slaves were allowed to interact with the colonists and foreign traders, creating a period of joy and festivities. The slaves developed their own dances, songs, music, and even languages.
Another type of Cape Town pride
This year’s Pride festival with the theme ‘Rainbow ID’ is set to be the largest the city has ever seen, according to capetownetc, attracting LGBTQIA+ communities and allies from across the globe.
From 6 February, the Pride Festival will kick off with a series of events leading up to the main parade. While more details on these events will be released soon, one event already confirmed is the Mr & Miss Cape Town Pride Pageant scheduled for 8 February at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone.
Participation
The parade will wind its way through the city, culminating in the Mardi Gras celebration at the Green Point Track. Participation in the Pride Parade is free to encourage more people to take part.
The Mardi Gras will include live performances, DJs, and dancing. There will also be a market featuring a range of LGBTQIA+ merchandise, food stalls, bars, and refreshment stations.
Exclusive VIP experience
For those looking to elevate their experience, a VIP area is available although it has limited space. This year, the VIP space will be located in a marquee directly in front of the main stage, offering unparalleled views of the performances. Limited to just 200 guests, the VIP area offers complimentary drinks and canapés, and exclusive access to private ablution facilities. It also includes a chance to meet main stage performers during special meet-and-greet sessions.