The annual Festive Lights Switch-On has been cancelled to reduce the spread of the virus, as the event attracts tens of thousands of spectators. Never fear, however, as a Brackenfell resident and his partner have decided to bring the festive cheer back to the Mother City amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Two years ago, Rick van der Galien decided to decorate their Brackenfell home with beautiful Christmas lights for everyone to enjoy, and this quickly became an attraction.
Each evening, they switch the lights on at 8pm sharp, and members of the public are allowed to spectate until 10pm to stay in line with COVID-19 regulations and the current 11pm curfew time.
The only days the lights will not be switched on is when it is raining, or if there is load shedding.
“We have a candy floss and popcorn machine as well as a few other extra things this year. All donations will go to animal shelters again. Hope to see you there,” van der Galien said via Facebook.
The lights can be viewed at 16 Dennegeur Street, Protea Heights in Brackenfell.
While the pair does not charge anyone for viewing the lights, they do appreciate donations, which are given to a local animal shelter.
