Tweede Nuwe Jaar, also known as Second New Year, is a holiday celebrated in Cape Town, South Africa on January 2nd.
It is a cultural holiday that originated in the early 19th century, during the time of Dutch colonization and the slave trade in South Africa.
On Tweede Nuwe Jaar, slaves were given the day off from their labor and were allowed to celebrate their own cultural traditions, which included music, dancing, and parades.
Today, the holiday is celebrated by people of all races and is seen as a way to honor and celebrate the cultural traditions and history of South Africa.
It is a time of celebration and coming together, and is typically marked by parades, music, dancing, and other cultural events.
[ruby_related heading=”More Read” total=5 layout=1]What is Tweede Nuwe Jaar?
Tweede Nuwe Jaar, which literally means “Second New Year”, is rooted in the slave history of Cape Town in South Africa. Slaves were only allowed a single day off work a year, and they used the opportunity to celebrate. The tradition is alive and kicking today, and the annual event sees Cape Town bursting into a carnival of colour, music, dancing, and parades.
When is Tweede Nuwe Jaar?
Tweede Nuwe Jaar happens on the 2nd of January each year.
What to expect?
Tweede Nuwe Jaar is one of the biggest events in the city, attracting hundreds of performers and thousands of spectators. The performers, known as the Kaapse Klopse, don colourful suits, face-paint, hats, and parasols. They strut their stuff through the streets, with brass instruments and drums, in the traditional ghoema musical style. The centre of Cape Town becomes a huge street party for the day. It’s loud, colourful, and a great deal of fun for the whole family.
Where to go?
The performers march their way through many streets in the city, especially in the historic District Six area. It’s not hard to find them: just listen out for the lively music and singing! The Bo-Kaap (colourful houses), Grand Parade, and District Six area are the best places to catch the performers in the city.
Once the march comes to an end, the troupes and various Cape Malay Choirs head to the Green Point stadium where the competition for the winning troupe begins in earnest.
See Pictures Below:
