Alcazar: Cape Town’s inner city NYE celebration

The city’s only grand-scale NYE festival. This year’s theme is…

Last updated: 22 October 2024 

Alcazar isn’t just a NYE party; it’s THE New Year’s Eve festival to go to in Cape Town. It’s an immersive art experience, with a new theme every year, incredible large scale stage architecture, an eclectic blend of 12+ hours of music from some of the biggest DJs in Africa; all set against the epic backdrop of Table Mountain. Here’s everything you need to know about Alcazar 2024, including the lineup, ticket prices and where to park. 

Alcazar NYE is Cape Town’s inner city New Year’s Eve celebration. Image: Alcazar

IT’S A LAVISH & EPIC CELEBRATION

Alcazar, which is set against the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain, happens annually at Cape Town High School. It’s just a 10-minute Uber from anywhere in the city centre.

​​Three immersive art stages will whisk you away into a kaleidoscope of joie de vivre, with 3D projection mapping, incredible decor, and performance artists (all dressed up according to the theme of that year).

Alcazar attracts more than 5 000 party-goers every year – so expect to see the who’s who of Cape Town and visitors from around the globe. Note: Alcazar is an over-21s event.

Come and dance all day and night in a totally secure and wind-protected venue. Image: Alcazar

WATCH THE 2023 AFTERMOVIE

AND 2024’S THEME IS… 

Each year the three-storey-high main stage is transformed into a jaw-dropping, astonishing art piece to fit the theme. This year it’s Disco Tropicana. Picture a sultry Polynesian fever dream with tiki torches and jugs, erupting volcanoes, palm trees, and dancing hula girls. 

It’s not compulsory, but party-goers are encouraged to dress to the theme. Think Hawaiian shirts, flower leis, or something you’d wear on a beach holiday, like bikinis with a sexy cover-up or dresses with bright tropical prints. 

Dress up is optional, but highly encouraged. Image: Alcazar

ALCAZAR 2024 LINEUP  

Shimza, who is unquestionably one of South Africa’s hottest talents right now, will be headlining the main stage. His Afro-tech sound and playing style is infectious and creative, and he’s toured and performed in cities like New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Sicily. 

Sun-El Musician, the second headliner, is just as esteemed. Known for his blend of African soul and electronic beats, he’s had several singles (like “Into Ingawe” and “Bamthathile”) certified platinum by the Recording Industry of South Africa. 

And Floyd Lavine, the final headliner, is making international waves with his vibrant Afro sets and his charismatic energy that the crowd adores. 

There’s also two smaller stages: Tropical Roast (with delightfully fun disco and funk) and Wolfkop Den (the electric dance floor that promises wonder and fun-filled vibrations all night long). Here you’ll find artists like Abby Nurock, one of the only local DJs to play her sets completely on vinyl. 

See more details about the line up via Alcazar’s Instagram page. 

Alcazar is known for its impressive lineup of local and global talent. Image: Alcazar 

3 TICKET OPTIONS 

Tickets start from R480, depending on when you purchase your ticket (it’s cheaper the earlier you buy). Standard tickets offer full access to the Alcazar experience, but if you’re feeling fancy, there are two VIP options. 

VIP Experience Passes start from R1 040 and include access to private luxury toilets, a VIP bar, and seating area overlooking the main dance floor. There is also a VVIP private tables area with waiter service. 

There’s two VIP options so you can elevate your Alcazar experience. Image: Alcazar 

EXPLAINED: FOOD & WHERE TO PARK

Gourmet food trucks (offering pizzas, burgers, Asian noodle bowls and more) will be available, with vegan and gluten-free options.

We recommend Ubering to Alcazar, as there’s very limited street parking available (and it’s safer if you’ll be drinking).