I hear the band playing, grab my camera and head for the Drostdy steps where I know I will get a good view of the proceedings.
The Naval Band is playing divine music that has a swing to it that makes moving to the music imperative. The Mayor of Cape Town, Patricia de Lille arrives. There are stirring speeches especially from the retiring Admiral, (only he is not called an Admiral these days.) The good relationship between the inhabitants of Simon's Town and the Navy is often referred to.
For me a highlight is the performance of many children's bands from all over the peninsula. They are given a resounding welcome from the crowd. All the mommies, dads, grannies, aunties and cousins are here to cheer these youngsters as they proudly salute the Mayor and dignitaries as they march past.
This may be a small Navy but it has a very big heart. For this weekend the Navy will be dedicating its energies to entertaining the public. As all entertainment is free this is a wonderful event for the whole community.
Back home I can see the queues for rides on the tug boats stretching along the quay. Each person wears a bright orange life jacket. The boats are busy all day and will be as busy to morrow. The queue for a visit to the frigate is equally long. Overhead the aeroplanes swoop and twist in a spectacular display. Sounds of cheering suggest other entertainment as well.
I decide that living in such close proximity adds an interesting dimension to village life.