Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

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This parade is a cultural tradition that dates back to the early years of colonisation and slavery in the Cape. (Image adapted). © Cape Town Tourism

Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

The Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, also known as the Kaapse Klopse (formerly known as the Coon Carnival), is one of South Africa’s most vibrant and culturally significant festivals, held annually in Cape Town. The carnival takes place on January 2nd, known locally as Tweede Nuwe Jaar ("Second New Year"), and draws thousands of participants and spectators. The event is a colorful celebration of Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the history and traditions of the city’s diverse communities, with roots going back to the 19th century.

The origins of the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival can be traced back to the time of slavery at the Cape. Enslaved people were given a day off on January 2nd by their colonial masters to celebrate the New Year. Over time, this day became associated with music, dancing, and joyous celebrations, and as Cape Town evolved, so did the festivities. After the abolition of slavery, African-American minstrels who visited Cape Town in the late 1800s influenced the carnival, adding elements of their minstrel traditions, including face painting and lively performances, which were incorporated into the local celebrations.

During the carnival, minstrel troupes dressed in brightly colored costumes and painted faces parade through the streets, singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments, particularly drums, banjos, and trumpets. The parade route usually runs through the heart of Cape Town, with the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and other historically significant areas being focal points. Troupes compete for prizes based on their performances, adding a sense of excitement and competition to the festival. The music played is largely influenced by Cape jazz and traditional "ghoema" rhythms, creating a unique sound that defines the carnival.

The Cape Town Minstrel Carnival is not only a celebration of the New Year but also a reclamation of cultural identity for the Cape Coloured community, which was historically marginalized during apartheid. It has become a symbol of resilience and unity, representing Cape Town's multiculturalism. While the carnival has evolved over the years, it remains deeply rooted in history and is an integral part of the city's social and cultural landscape.

Contact Details for the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival:
Organization: Cape Town Minstrel Carnival Association
Phone: +27 21 761 4178
Email: see website
Website: https://www.capetown.travel

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, attending the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival offers a unique and festive way to experience the rich cultural diversity and history of the Mother City. It is an unforgettable event that combines music, dance, and tradition, embodying the spirit of Cape Town.

Accommodation Near Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

Showing 1 to 10 of 10 results

Sleeps 20 in 5 units

^FromR 1950

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

5 Camp Street

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Cape Town

2.1km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

5 Camp Street provides self catering accommodation in Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Ideally situated in the central, trendy and historic suburb of Gardens, on the lower slopes of Table Mountain. Within easy walking distance of Kloof Street... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Guest Rating: 9

Sleeps 10 in 5 units

^FromR 1350

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Liberty Lodge

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Cape Town

2.4km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

Liberty Lodge provides guests with bed and breakfast accommodation in Tamboerskloof, Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Over the years, this classic Cape Town bed & breakfast has earned an enviable reputation for relaxed and genuine hospitality. Originally a V …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

* Rates may vary according to season

Beach Villa

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mouille Point

2.7km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

Beach Villa apartment provides self catering accommodation in Mouille Point, Cape Town City Bowl. Beach Villa, is a spacious two bedroomed self catering apartment with stunning sea and mountain views and within walking distance to the Mouille Point beach …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 6 in 2 units

^FromR 750

Per person, per night sharing

* Rates may vary according to season

Green Point Self Catering Studio

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Green Point, Cape Town

2.9km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

Green Point Self Catering Studio provides visitors with self catering accommodation in Green Point, Cape Town City Bowl. We offer 2 self catering studios. Green Point Self Catering Studio 1 (sleeps max two) is a tastefully renovated self-catering studio.. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

* Rates may vary according to season

Barry Hall Apartments

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fresnaye

3.8km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

Barry Hall is located in the leafy suburb of Fresnaye on the Atlantic Seaboard. The 4 large apartments and garden cottage are offer free Wi-Fi as well as friendly daily service, weekdays leaves you free to enjoy Cape Town and all its beauty. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 35 in 10 units

^FromR 2000

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel

Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Cape Town

4.2km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

The Grande Kloof is a privately owned and operated accommodation establishment offering both Bed & Breakfast and Self Catering options in a great holiday location within the upmarket residential area of Fresnaye, on the Atlantic Seaboard in Cape Town... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 4 in 1 unit

^FromR 3000

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

7A Clifton Steps

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Clifton, Cape Town

4.9km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

A beautifully appointed garden self-catering 2 bedroom apartment on Clifton Steps. Ideally situated - just a short taxi ride from Camps Bay to one side and to the other side, all that the Mother City has to offer. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Guest Rating: 10

Sleeps 10 in 1 unit

^FromR 6500

Entire place per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Aview

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town

5.8km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

This striking luxury villa offers unobstructed views of both the mountain & Camps Bay. It is close to the beach, restaurants, clubs, bars, Cape Town, V&A Waterfront, Golf courses & wine routes. The pool, Jacuzzi & gamesroom are big hits with guests! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 12 in 7 units

^FromR 1465

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Knightsbury Guest House

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Rondebosch

5.8km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

There are 4 tastefully decorated rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each is fitted with all the amenities necessary to making sure their guests' needs are attended to. The Knight's are an impressive double act at breakfast, which is indulgent with... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 110 in 14 units

3 On Camps Bay Boutique Hotel

Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town

6.1km from Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Kaapse Klopse) - Cape Town

3 on Camps Bay is a luxury 16 bedroom Guesthouse in the up-market and trendy Camps Bay, Cape Town. Located in a cul-de-sac overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 3 On Camps Bay offers a quiet retreat where you can vacation in the utmost luxury and pamper. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

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