In the photo the crowd at the George Lights Festival cheering as the Mayor switched on the Christmas lights.
The George Light Festival was a spectacular success, drawing thousands of attendees to celebrate a day filled with music and community spirit. The event, held at Unity Park, York Street, brought together residents and visitors to mark the festive season with a memorable lineup of entertainment and activities.
The Festive Season was officially kicked off with a special address from Executive Mayor, Ald. Jackie von Brandis, who delivered the keynote speech and switched on the festive lights of George for the first time with a laptop on stage and the help of Electrotechnical Services who worked tirelessly to make sure all the festive lights were in working order.
Mayor Von Brandis introduced Members of her Mayoral Committee on stage with her and thanked them for their consistent work to make George better. She said the Lights Festival is for the residents of George and said, tongue in cheek that hopefully her silly dancing put the residents in a jolly spirit for the festive season and that everyone should remember the reason for the season is God. “We need to stand together as family and friends but most importantly as one community. We have an amazing community united in our differences,” She said we are not only Naturally George but also a naturally a smart city before she switched on by computer. The countdown and switch on was accompanied by loud cheering and clapping of the crowd with Ald Von Brandis wishing the City of George a blessed Festive Season.
Mayor Von Brandis said the festival was amazing. “I would like to thank every resident and visitor for making their way to the festival. She also thanked all the performers who provided the entertainment and George Municipal officials who put the festival together and without them, no festival would be possible.
One of the day’s most anticipated highlights was the kiddies and youth programme, where Danny Cat, the Traffic Mascot and and Georgie from Go George charmed young attendees with their energetic performances. Peter Jaftha, famous local radio presenter at Heartbeat FM and Gregory Noble, a masterful host, kept the audience engaged and entertained throughout the event, with their charisma.
The festival’s entertainment lineup showcased local talent at its best, featuring 22 artists, including crowd favourites like the Pacaltsdorp Primary School Choir and the Curro Choir. The famous Wimpee singing the Blessing while playing the keyboard and a stunning performance of Alistor Oosthuizen on his saxophone.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were 36 vibrant stalls offering an array of food, crafts, and services, creating a lively marketplace that drew enthusiastic crowds. The event also served as an opportunity for local traders to showcase their products, contributing to the festival’s success.
George Municipality Festival organiser, Khanyisile Fortuin, expressed her gratitude to all involved in making the festival a triumph. She extended a special thanks to George law enforcement, including SAPS, neighbourhood watch groups and more who ensured a safe and secure environment for everyone. The Light’s Festival continues to be a cornerstone event in George.
Photos:
An astounding local singer and keyboard player, Wimpee moved the crowd with his rendition of the Blessing. With him on stage is Peter Jaftha, MC at the event.
Families enjoying what the George Lights Festival had to offer.
George Gospel Choir from Thembalethu.
Mayor Jackie von Brandis, elated as she switched on the George Festive Lights for the first time as mayor of George. To her left is Cllr Nosicelo Mbete and to her right is Samuel (Altus) Griessel from Electrotechnical Services with the computer to switch the lights on. To the far right is Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC for Community Development and Cllr Brendon Adams, MMC for Community Safety.
George Lights Festival organiser, Khanyisile Fortuin, Cllr Theresa Jeyi, Chief Whip of Council, Executive Mayor of George, Ald Jackie von Brandis, Cllr Nosicelo Mbete, MMC for Human Resources and Cllr Brendon Adams, MMC for Community Safety
Alistor Oosthuizen with his amazing Saxophone notes on stage with his rendition of the Goodness of God. He was a definite crowd favourite.
Praise Singer Lwando on stage entertaining the George Lights Festival crowd.