CREATIVE CHAMPIONS CARRYING THE MOTHER CITY’S HEARTBEAT
The Cape Town Carnival returns to Green Point in March, and it has enlisted the help of 12 creatives to share the Mother City’s story.
In its 16th year, the Carnival embraces the theme Follow Your HeART – a call to artists, dreamers and audiences alike to honour creativity and the emotional connection that art creates between people.
The carnival has called on 12 creative champions share their stories of following their passion while highlighting the role Cape Town has played in shaping their careers and artistic voices.
Creativity Shaped by Cape Town
Among them is acclaimed singer and storyteller Zolani Mahola, who credits Cape Town as a key part of her artistic journey after moving to the city from the Eastern Cape more than two decades ago to pursue a career in performance.
“The role of ‘Champion’ means a lot. I arrived here from the Eastern Cape 26 years ago, dreaming of performing to thousands,” says Mahola.
“Those dreams have come true, and in a large part it’s thanks to this city that has given me so much. It feels meaningful to be a Cape Town Carnival Champion in the city where I’ve crafted and grown my art.”
She is joined by fellow Champions Anslin Gysman, DJ Ready D, Suidooster actor Natasha van der Merwe, graffiti artist Rizah Potgieter, late hip-hop artist Bravo le Roux, designer Stephen van Eeden, make-up influencer Jemma Fourie, performance veteran Terry Fortune, activist Nyaniso Tutu-Burris, make-up artist Qhayiya Tyali, and musician Dylan Majavie.
“These champions have followed their heart in order to live their passion, and they’ll be providing inspiration as they share their stories,” says Cape Town Carnival CEO Jay Douwes.
The carnival will honour and celebrate Bravo le Roux, who passed away last month, for his contribution to the creative arts.
A pod shaped by his story and his ideas, will be among those making their way down the FanWalk.
More than a parade: a shared city experience
When the Carnival rolls in on 21 March 2026, it will bring together 1 500 performers in a bold celebration of talent, connection and imagination along the parade route on Green Point’s Somerset Road.
The event’s broader impact extends beyond the parade route.
Behind the scenes, the Carnival supports job creation, skills development and year-round artistic opportunities, reinforcing Cape Town’s position as one of Africa’s leading creative hubs.
The 2026 event is expected to draw thousands of spectators to Green Point where large-scale floats, performance groups and community organisations will bring the theme “Follow Your HeART” to life through music, dance, design and storytelling.
The Cape Town Carnival is a free event. However, should you be interested in some limited ticket options in VIP, seated stands or the Red Bus, you have options.
