Kaapse Klopse facts for kids
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The Kaapse Klopse (say "Kahp-suh Klop-suh"), often just called Klopse, is a super colorful festival that happens every year in Cape Town, South Africa. It takes place on January 2nd, and people also call it Tweede Nuwe jaar, which means "Second New Year." Thousands of performers, sometimes as many as 13,000, fill the streets. They dress in bright, eye-catching colors, carry colorful umbrellas, and play many different musical instruments.
What is the Kaapse Klopse?
The performers in the Kaapse Klopse are organized into groups called klopse. This word means "clubs" in Afrikaans, but it's better to think of them as special performing teams or troupes. Many of the people who take part come from families in Cape Town who speak Afrikaans. These families have kept this amazing tradition alive since the mid-1800s.
A Celebration of History and New Beginnings
People in Cape Town see the Kaapse Klopse festival as a way to celebrate new beginnings. It's also a special event that shows off the rich history of the Cape region. During the holiday season, there are exciting singing competitions connected to the Klopse. These include contests for Christmas Choirs, Cape Malay Choirs, and Cape minstrel choirs.
Images for kids
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Cape Town procession on the anniversary of slave emancipation
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Troupe on Darling Street during the January 2011 festival
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Troupe of minstrels marching through Cape Town (2017)
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Minstrel in classic minstrel style struts his stuff at the Green Point Stadium in 2001
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