Heritage Day History

Heritage Day is a public holiday in South Africa, aimed at celebrating the diverse cultural heritage and rich history of the country. As a unique rainbow nation with various ethnicities and traditions, South Africa values the importance of embracing the cultural differences and perspectives of its people. South Africans are encouraged to reflect on their roots, acknowledge the influence of their ancestors, and unify in their shared identity and pride.

First celebrated in 1995, Heritage Day emerged as a result of negotiations leading to the establishment of the new democratic South Africa. Previously known as Shaka Day, a regional holiday commemorating the life of the Zulu king Shaka, it was later transformed into a nationwide celebration to represent all South Africans. Today, this day highlights the unity in diversity that defines South Africa and serves as a platform for educating future generations on the importance of preserving their cultural heritage.

Each year, South Africans come together to mark Heritage Day on the 24th of September through various activities like traditional dancing, music, storytelling, and feasting on diverse cultural dishes. Wearing traditional attire during the festivities is a common practice, which showcases the nation's vibrant array of cultures. Heritage Day also provides the opportunity for South Africans to visit historic sites and museums, attend cultural events, and engage in educational activities to further appreciate the nation's rich and complex history.

Heritage Day Facts & Quotes

• We are building a nation that is proud of its national symbols, our flag and our anthem. They reflect our shared values and the principle of unity in diversity, - Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President of South Africa
• When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation. - Nelson Mandela
• Many national parks and cultural sites offer free or discounted entry during Heritage Day celebrations, making it more accessible for South Africans to engage with their heritage.

In the News and Trending for Heritage Day

Heritage Day Top Things to Do

• Have a braai with all of your friends and family. Gather together and have some traditional dishes and meats such as antelope, boerewors, bobotie, chakalaka and pap.
• Study some of South Africa's history to better understand the blend of cultures, origins and ethnicities that make up today's South African population. Some of our favourite books on the subject are: The History of South Africa, The South African Story and Commando: A Boer Journal.
• Spread awareness for the day using social media hashtags such as #rainbownation, #hertiageday and #celebrateheritage.
• Spend the day at one of South Africa's many museums dedicated to the nation's culture. Some of our favourites are the District Six Museum, the Origins Museum and the Transvaal Museum.
• Dress up in the traditional clothing of one of South Africa's many subcultures. It is customary for women especially to adorn their familiar home attire in order to showcase it in the work place and at public celebrations. If you don’t have the original clothing, reuse many things that you already have in order to create a similar one.