Long Street lit up with a spectacular show of colour on Saturday, March 19, as the Cape Town Carnival parade headed up the famous one-way street. Feather boas, glitter, Harley-Davidsons and reams of partygoers all helped to make the spectacle reminiscent of the Rio Carnival, but ours had a wonderfully South African flavour. Here are some highlights of the dazzling event. All photos by Deon Gurling.

A cavalcade of Harley-Davidson motorbikes added some roar to the furor.

Stunning and shimmering in gold: Larger than life was the order of the night.

Life’s a beach! This great float depicts some of what is awesome about Cape Town: sun, sand, sea, gorgeous people and Table Mountain.

Divine diva: An all-white outfit brings the heavens to Long Street.

The Cape Town Carnival was reminiscent of Brazil’s Rio Carnival.

Locals pulled through for a party to end all parties.