Cape Town, 15 March 2020 – It is with deep regret that the Cape Town Carnival Trust announces the cancellation of the Cape Town Carnival which was to be held next Saturday on the 21st March 2020. This decision is taken in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the government’s ban on gatherings of more than 100 people.
In consultation with our stakeholders, the trustees and management of the Cape Town Carnival resolved to cancel the carnival parade in the best interests of the health and welfare of all people and particularly the communities we serve.
We would like to thank the 44 community groups, the individual performers, and the Carnival staff that have worked tirelessly to prepare for this event.
We are heartened by the fact that the Cape Town Carnival is not only the event, but a year long process, and that the many programmes that have run throughout the year and culminate in the annual event have taken place, and the value of the growth and experience for all has not been lost.
Some 2094 performers, young and old, from all parts of Cape Town, have been engaged in healthy, joyful and creative activities. The family of Carnivalistas continues to grow as a community of mutual support. Furthermore, the production of floats and costumes has created jobs, developed skills and improved self-esteem in communities across the metropol and the Western Cape and will be showcased at the next event.
We and all participants are deeply disappointed to have to forgo showcasing Incredible Journey -Sounds of South Africa on this occasion and look forward to sharing our creativity and culture with the public in the future. We remain in dialogue with all our stakeholders and our incredible partners, the City of Cape Town, the National Department of Arts and Culture, Multichoice, the Western Cape Government, DStv, Media24, KFM, Tsogo Sun Hotels on the way forward.
“My heart goes out to the Carnival communities and our management team that have worked so hard to make this year’s Parade extra special. Don’t lose hope; we will be back. We thank our sponsors and suppliers for their understanding in these uncertain times.” – Prof. Rachel Jafta – Chairperson of the Cape Town Carnival Trust.