About New Year’s Day (Public Holiday)

All the info about New Year's Day as a public holiday in South Africa + tips on what to do

1 January marks the beginning of 2023. It’s a day for celebrations and spending time with family.

NEW YEARS DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY 

While most Cape Town restaurants and eateries are open on New Year’s Eve, some are closed on New Year’s Day itself.

You can find a nice selection of places that still invite families and friends to celebrate with a good meal and company among these

> things to do in Cape Town this New Year's Day

THE CITY’S FAMOUS SECOND NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS

Another world famous Mother City event is the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, dubbed Tweede Nuwe Jaar (Second New Year, which takes place on 2 January. The festival dates back to the mid-19th century when slaves only got one day leave per year: the 2nd of January. It’s celebrated to this day as a means of cultural remembrance and a reminder for all South Africans (and the world) never to repeat the mistakes of the past.

Today, this colourful parade takes to the streets of the CBD and includes a series of festivals with live entertainment, food and fun for spectators and participants alike. It does involve some road closures, so holiday-goers should plan accordingly. We bring you all the info on events, entertainment, road and road closures around Cape Town’s Tweede Nuwe Jaar.

WATCH: WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE STREET PARADE

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Hello 2024! How to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Cape Town.