Cape Town got into the World Cup groove when thousands of eager soccer fans descended on Long Street for the city's openair draw festival.

Authorities cordoned off a section of the colourful street for a massive party, expected to continue long past the 7pm draw ceremony.

A giant screen has been set up against the backdrop of Table Mountain, where revellers will be able to watch the draw live.

The City's 2010 spokesman, Pieter Cronje, said there had been no incidents except for a bomb scare earlier in the day at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

There were security checkpoints at every entrance to the cordoned area, with guards searching bags and frisking partygoers.

There were two medical tents on site, and medics driving around in two golf carts with first aid kits.

Medics on the scene said there were no incidents and that they were monitoring the situation, especially given the heat.

Nadia Jansen from Cape Town said she was loving the atmosphere and the mood. "This is Ayoba, I am very excited for 2010," she said.

Finnish tourist Pauli Virtanen said: "It is amazing to be here, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Restaurants and bars on Long Street had flags flying showing their support for their favourite teams.

Among them were the South African, Irish and Portuguese flags, and Britain's Union Jack.

An array of large colourful soccer balls were hanging from the facades of businesses lining the street.

People in full party mode wore soccer shirts from all over the world.

The city said earlier it expected 15,000 people to attend the street festival.

South African artists such as Freshlyground, Flat Stanley and Jimmy Dludlu will entertain partygoers until midnight.