Cape Town - Invited guests, political leaders and Members of Parliament have begun arriving at the red carpet outside Parliament's National Assembly.
President Jacob Zuma is to address the nation at 7pm.
Former President Nelson Mandela's grandson, Chief Mandla Mandela, who arrived a short while ago dressed in traditional Royal Xhosa garb, told BuaNews the opening of Parliament was always emotional and special to him and his family.
He said it was a moment for the country to reflect and look back on all that it had achieved.
"The traditional outfit that I'm wearing is a symbol of where we're from and the journey we've travelled thus far. The opening of Parliament also gives us an opportunity to reflect on the leadership of men such as my grandfather, and others such as Anton Lembede, Walter Sisulu and Oliver Tambo and remember the contribution that they made towards our democracy."
He added that he was looking forward to hearing about the contribution that will be made towards strengthening rural development.
"I am happy to see the role that government has taken to fighting poverty and building sustainable communities. I will be looking closely to see what contribution will be made," he said.
He added that his grandfather was doing well after a stint in hospital recently and that Madiba would be watching President Zuma deliver the State of the Nation Address in the comfort of his home.
Lennit Max, DA Deputy Shadow Minister for Correctional Services, stood out in an outfit inspired by the Cape Minstrels. With a walking stick in one hand, Max wore white shoes, pants, shirt and a white hat with a red and blue ribbon laced with a red waist coat.
"This is my wife's idea. I don't know why she did it. It's cool though," he said, as he posed for photographs.
He said that he expected Zuma to announce new plans in order to fight crime and ensure the safety of the citizens.
Dianne Kohler Barnard, DA shadow minister for police, was wearing a turquoise outfit which she said had been inspired by "India bling". Her makeup was simple and flawless and complemented her Indian outfit.
She said that she had tried over 500 outfits and "I almost gave up," before she decided on her outfit bought at Mintys in Durban.
