Parliament was a riot of colour and costume shortly before 9am on Friday, ahead of its official opening.
Security officials were anxiously muttering into ear pieces, and trying to stop people walking on the red carpet laid out for the President and his entourage.
On his arrival at the Spin Street entrance shortly after 10am, Mbeki is set to walk through the specially-built Gate of Unity, and then up to the National Assembly building past a guard of honour, including a group of 200 children born in 1994.
Giant black and white photographs of former African leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Samora Machel and Patrice Lumumba, line both sides of the red-carpet route.
Officials and MPs were taking advantage of the occasion to display their traditional costumes and dress.
One was seen sporting a large peacock and ostrich feather headdress. Traditional African skirts and beaded necklaces were much in evidence.
African National Congress whip Lewele Modisenyane, who hails from the eastern Free State, was dressed in a traditional Basotho blanket and hat.
Former ANC MP Adelaide Tambo was spotted wearing a Zulu hat and African-style suit. – Sapa