Cape Town is gearing up for one of its busiest Easter weekends in years, with a packed calendar of entertainment and sports events expected to draw massive crowds to venues across the city, and law enforcement already on high alert to keep things in check, Cape {town} Etc reports.
City authorities have confirmed that over two dozen major events will unfold between Thursday and Monday, with traffic congestion, packed stadiums and foot traffic expected to surge. From internationally acclaimed music legends to grassroots football and fiercely contested rugby tournaments, the Mother City is primed for a celebratory storm — one that’s being matched with heightened security and a province-wide road safety drive.
One of the biggest spectacles this weekend is the 36th Bayhill Premier Cup, already underway at Erica Park in Belhar. With 32 teams from South Africa and abroad battling for glory, the tournament is regarded as a breeding ground for the country’s future football stars. Finals are set for Easter Monday at Athlone Stadium, where the coveted Roger Clayton Trophy and two other titles will be up for grabs.
On the cultural front, music icon Lebo M is set to ignite the Grand Arena at GrandWest on Friday night with a live performance featuring Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer. The duo’s collaboration promises an emotionally charged evening as they relive iconic musical moments, with tickets moving fast via Ticketmaster.
Also on Friday, the Igugu loMbhoxo Easter Rugby Tournament kicks off at the Khayelitsha Rugby Stadium. Featuring 28 senior men’s teams along with women’s and youth divisions, the four-day event draws teams from the Western and Eastern Cape, as well as the North West. It’s one of the largest township rugby events in the country and receives direct logistical support from the City of Cape Town.
Rugby fans will also be flocking to the DHL Stadium on Saturday, where the Stormers make their long-awaited home return to face Connacht from Ireland. MyCiTi buses will be running free shuttles for ticket holders, easing congestion around the 4pm kickoff.
Fitness takes centre stage in Richwood and Atlantis, where the Velocity Athletic Club hosts its Richmond Corner 10km/5km on Saturday, followed by the Velocity Family Day 21km/5km on Monday. Both events double up as health campaigns and fundraising opportunities for local community causes.
Meanwhile, back in Belhar, the Trinitarians U14 Easter Tournament will also be in full swing, spotlighting some of the city’s most promising young footballers. With 32 teams and over 600 players, it’s a critical platform for scouts from professional clubs keeping tabs on rising talent.
From 18 April to 21 April, this eco-festival invites attendees to participate in tree planting, enjoy live music, and engage in workshops, all set in the tranquil surroundings of the retreat.
Safety and security agencies have pledged a full-scale operation to keep the city’s roads and venues incident-free. Mayoral Committee Member JP Smith emphasised the coordinated approach between the City’s Events Permit Office and the Directorate for Safety and Security, assuring that all activities will be tightly monitored for compliance and public protection.
Road safety remains a major concern during Easter, and the Western Cape’s Department of Mobility has already deployed teams to monitor routes in and out of the city. MEC Isaac Sileku warned that dangerous behaviour behind the wheel — from speeding to drunk driving — will not be tolerated.
‘We’ve got boots on the ground throughout the province. Anyone caught putting lives at risk will be dealt with swiftly,’ said Sileku.
With sunny skies forecast and an electric lineup of activities on offer, Cape Town is ready to deliver a memorable Easter — one where celebration meets caution.
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Picture: Grant Pitcher / Gallo Images
