The annual switching on of festive lights is one of the City’s signature events and a tradition that’s been ongoing for the past five decades as a symbolic start to the festive season. However, switching on these colourful lights went forth on Tuesday, November 30 without the usual celebration.
Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis switched on the lights along Adderley Street’s main crossing on Tuesday night in front of a small crowd, compared to the years where nearly 100 000 people would usually attend this event.
According to Hill-Lewis, growing up, his mother used to bring him to Adderley Street to see the lights being switched on.
“I remember the feeling of wonder and excitement seeing the lights blink on for as far as the eye could see, or at least that’s what it felt like to a small child.
“After the lights were on, we would walk around the stalls buying food and trinkets and sharing the evening with tens of thousands of fellow Capetonians,” Hill-Lewis said.
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He went on to say that he could not imagine that he would continue the wonderful Cape Town family tradition by switching on the lights.
“I am so proud to be sharing this moment with you and my own family, at the first switch on event as Mayor of this beautiful city. I am only sorry not to be sharing it with the nearly 100 000 people that usually attend this event,” he indicated.
Hill-Lewis further mentioned that he has been clear about his vision of ensuring that the City of Cape Town is the beacon of hope for South Africa in 2022 and beyond.
“Appropriately, this year’s festive theme is, Cape Town: City of Opportunities. We want this City to work for all and provide greater access to opportunity. Much work lies ahead, but we are dedicated, motivated and inspired to serve Cape Town in 2022,” Hill-Lewis expressed.
In the meantime, the City has installed festive lights displays in Muizenberg, Grassy Park, Macassar, Strand, Somerset West, Sir Lowry’s Pass, Ravensmead, Valhalla Park, Khayelitsha, Hanover Park, Mitchells Plain and Atlantis. A further 90 Christmas trees in areas across the city will also be draped in lights.
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Picture: COCT