JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE City of Johannesburg is gearing up for the annual Joburg Carnival.The spectacle, a vibrant fun-filled street parade with performances by participants from the seven regions of the city, precedes New Year’s Eve celebrations on Thursday.

The carnival will begin at 12h00 from Kotze Street in Hillbrow with a brief opening by the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg Councillor Mpho Parks Tau before making its Mary Fitzgerald Square where it will end with performances by the troupes.

A concert will start at 18h00 with artists and disc jockeys entertaining crowds through the evening towards the midnight countdown.

The climax will be at 0000hrs, heralding the beginning of the New Year,amid pomp and fanfare.The music and performances will continue until early hours of the morning.

“We expect Mary Fritzgerald Square to start filling up quite early toenjoy the festivities as this day is really about you the residents ofJohannesburg,” said member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development, Chris Vondo.

He called on members of the public to promote safety.While it is celebrated in an atmosphere of pomp, some unruly elements usually endanger the lives of others through over-the-top celebrations.

“I want to remind revelers that safety is our collective responsibilitynot only on the night but throughout 2016,” said Vondo.

– CAJ News