An enormous amount of planning went into the State of the Nation Address. On Wednesday, preparations began early and the event went off without a hitch.

Democratic Alliance parliamentary leader Lindiwe Mazibuko was one of the day’s best dressed and happily posed for cameras.

DA leader and Western Cape Premier Helen Zille was also a fashion favourite and attended with husband Johann Maree (a.k.a. Mr Zille).

Bands entertained the crowd as South Africa’s premiers, chief justices, speakers, deputy president and president walked the red carpet.

School children lined the red carpet, patiently holding their flags as they waited for the dignitaries.

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe was accompanied by his partner Gugu Msthali (left) and walked the red carpet with Deputy Speaker Nomaindia Mfeketo.

Motlanthe slowly walked down the red carpet, waving to the crowd. The ANC has assured the public he will stay on as deputy president after losing the role in the party, but speculation continues to mount.

President Jacob Zuma alighted from a vehicle somewhat similar to a Pope-Mobile and walked up the red carpet alongside his first wife Ma Khumalo and Speaker of the House Max Sisulu, who stopped in front of the band to dance.

Zuma’s state of the nation address lacked the weight many hoped he might bring.

The Presidential Guard led the procession of dignitaries up the red carpet and stood for the customary salute.

Once Zuma and co. went into the chamber for the state of the nation address, the marching band followed the President’s Guard back down the red carpet.

After Zuma’s address, members of parliament left the chamber and mixed with journalists before leaving for home. Lindiwe Mazibuko walked towards the car park, swapping her high heels for more comfortable shoes halfway.

DA spokesman Mmusi Maimane was busy offering comments on the State of the Nation Address as many of the attendees were headed home.

All photos by Greg Nicolson/Daily Maverick