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Heritage Day is the perfect opportunity for South Africans to embrace their cultural diversities. It allows us to revel in the all the beauty and positivity that this country has to offer. Declared a public holiday after democracy, Heritage Day falls on 24 September every year.
“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 in 1996
Celebrating Heritage Day can be an expensive affair that eats away at your budget. That’s why we’ve scoured the country to find a list of exciting activities that will help you celebrate our cultural diversity without breaking your bank.
Experience the flavours of South Africa
From boerewors to bunny chows, our local cuisine is unique and varied. That means that there’s something to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The large majority of South Africans know the joy that a “bring and braai” can bring to a family. But, if you’re not keen on hosting, entertaining and cleaning up after your guests, here’s something more affordable and scrumptious.
Try: The Imbizo Shisa Nyama, also known as Busy Corner, in Midrand, which has an annual Heritage Day party. This is one of South Africa’s most acclaimed eating spots that celebrate our authentic culture and heritage.
Outdoor markets have also become a trend throughout South Africa. The food is generally affordable and perfectly encapsulates the myriad flavours that make the country and the continent so diverse.
Try: In Gauteng, you can try The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. In the Western Cape, head off to Woodstock Market. If you’re in KwaZulu-Natal, visit the I Heart Market in Durban.
Feast your eyes on our impressive national landscapes
This Heritage Month, South African National Parks (SANParks) has cut the entrance fee to 21 of their national parks to everyone who has a valid South African identity document. The 13th annual SA National Parks Week takes place from 10-14 September. Free access is only for entrance into the parks and excludes accommodation and other activities. So with a little planning, you can feast your eyes on the stunning landscape.
Click here for the full list of parks.
Fauna and flora – we’re spoilt for choice
There are also many botanical gardens to visit to enjoy a leisurely picnic and to introduce your children to the country’s vast biodiversity. Picturesque walks in places with waterfalls, animal life, trees and plants do not have to cost an arm and a leg.
Try: The Walter Sisulu Garden in Roodepoort; or the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden about 120km north of Cape Town.
Take a walk through our rich history
Museums are great for reflecting on the past and are filled with valuable lessons, especially for younger generations of future leaders. While South Africa’s past was tumultuous, it’s essential to understand our history so that we can work towards understanding and accepting our differences while learning from the mistakes and heroism of those who walked the long walk to freedom. The country’s metropoles have a number of these institutions, so everyone is spoilt for choice.
Try: The Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill or Museum Africa in Johannesburg. Each option showcases pockets of the country’s past. In Durban, the Old Court Museum helps to unravel the coastal city’s intricate tapestry.
If none of these options seem like the right fit for your Heritage Day celebrations, then speak to your family and friends, do a quick Google search and soon you'll find a host of activities that’s right for you and your pocket.
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