Tweede Nuwe Jaar Cape Minstrel Parade in Cape Town

The 2nd New Year, known locally as Tweede Nuwe Jaar, will be a colourful celebration in Cape Town on 3 January 2009

Many residents of Cape Town wake up to a new year and are eager to celebrate Tweede Nuwe Jaar, which translates to Second New Year. Why celebrate the New Year once when you can celebrate it twice!

This day traditionally sees entire communities taking part in colourful and energetic celebrations that take place throughout the Cape Town, and there is always lots of music, dancing, costumes and vivid colours. Experiencing this day is really a treat for the whole family.

The Tweede Nuwe Jaar is an integral part of Cape Town's rich history and culture and one of the most significant tourist attractions and events on the Cape Town party calendar. Capetonians together with the Cape Minstrels celebrate New Year twice in Cape Town, and a number of communities are represented in the various minstrel troupes. 

The Cape Minstrels who take part in the renowned Cape Minstrel Festival, also known as the Cape Coon Carnival, are a key part of the Tweede Nuwe Jaar celebrations, and their colourful, musical and infectious rhythms are sure to get you and your family in a celebratory mood.

The Cape Minstrel Parade on January 3rd in Cape Town is a must-see for everyone in Cape Town, local or visitor, as it reflects the heart and soul of vibrant Cape Town and beyond.

The Cape Coon Carnival takes place over a number of weekends in Cape Town's City Centre, Bo Kaap and Greenpoint, so if you're in Cape Town on 3 January 2009, be sure to take to the streets with your camera - you're sure to get plenty of winning photos!

Malay Choir Road March
Start & End date: 31 Dec 2008 - 1 Jan 2009
Start & End time: 23h00 - 06h00
The procession will consist of 72 choirs and bands, starting at Keizergracht and ending at Rose Street.

Minstrels Road March
Start & End date: 3 Jan - 3 Jan 2009
Start & End time: 10h00 - 21h00
The procession will consist of 66 minstrel troupes and bands, starting at Keizergracht and ending at Rose Street.
Troupes will board their buses in Chiappini Street.

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