Heritage Day in South Africa is observed on 24 September every year. It is a public holiday dedicated to recognising and celebrating the country’s cultural wealth.
Heritage Day historical significance
The day was officially declared a holiday after 1994, when South Africa became a democracy.
Before that, 24 September was known as Shaka Day in KwaZulu-Natal, honouring King Shaka Zulu, the legendary Zulu leader.
When the new democratic government created a national holiday calendar, this day was renamed Heritage Day so that it could include all South Africans, not only one group.
The purpose of the holiday is to remind people that South Africa is made up of many different cultures, languages, and traditions, all of which form part of the country’s “heritage.”
Heritage means what is passed down from previous generations, such as customs, food, music, and historical sites.
Former President Nelson Mandela described Heritage Day as a time when South Africans can celebrate “our rich cultural heritage in its diversity, which is our strength.”
How to celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa
There are many ways South Africans mark Heritage Day, both formally and informally.
- Braai Day: Many people call it “National Braai Day.” A braai is a South African-style barbecue, and on 24 September families and friends often gather to cook meat on open flames, symbolising unity and togetherness.
- Cultural dress: Schools, workplaces, and communities encourage people to wear traditional outfits that represent their heritage, whether it is Xhosa, Zulu, Afrikaans, Indian, Coloured, or other cultural roots.
- Food and music: Traditional foods such as pap, chakalaka, bunny chow, and koeksisters are prepared and shared. Music and dance events showcase local styles, from maskandi to Afrikaans folk songs.
- Visiting heritage sites: Many South Africans take the day to explore museums, cultural villages, or national landmarks that tell the story of the country’s past.
Government and civil society often organise official events such as speeches, parades, or cultural festivals to highlight the importance of unity in diversity.
In short, Heritage Day is not only a public holiday but also a reminder that despite differences, South Africans share a common identity built from many traditions.