For many South Africans, Heritage Day marks the start of spring/summer festivities. The fun times enjoyed on long summer days are kick-started by the celebration of our cultural identities and our heritage.
Our nation is one of the most diverse in the world. With 12 official languages and a melting pot of ethnicities from different racial and cultural backgrounds, Heritage Day celebrates the beauty of our rainbow nation, a dream of the late former president Nelson Mandela.
Heritage Day: How it all started
So, in truth, there isn’t a single way of commemorating the fabric of South Africa’s heritage.
Before the Public Holidays Bill was passed in 1996, 24 September marked Shaka Day, a celebration of the king of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Shaka Zulu.
Every year, on this day, Zulu people from different clans would gather at his gravesite to remember the brave leader who ruled with an iron fist.
To this day, paying tribute to Shaka Zulu is still considered a cultural practice on Heritage Day. Xhosa people wear their traditional attire and often host gatherings at their respective households with African beer on offer.
Is National Braai Day taking over our heritage?
The big question mark that hovers over this day of observance is its nickname, Braai Day.
Many South Africans don’t recognise braaing as a cultural norm and traditionalists have often scoffed at the idea of uniting a country behind a braai stand.
Jan Scannell, also known in many circles as ‘Jan Braai’, can be credited for popularising the idea of braaing on Heritage Day.
In 2007, the chartered accountant launched a campaign, calling on South Africans to change Heritage Day to National Braai Day. The campaign objective was to unite the nation under one common trait all South Africans share, our natural inclination towards braaing.
The idea sparked outrage, at first. Many South Africans felt disrespected by the sheer gall of a man who wanted to wash away the rich heritage history of this country with a simple braai.
However, Archbishop Desmond Tutu stood against the revolt and donned an apron to show support for Jan Braai’s idea.
For the archbishop, Braai Day was a unifying force in a largely divided South Africa.
A year later, amid the massive backlash, the idea was endorsed by the National Heritage Council and since then, South Africans have warmed up to including braais in their heritage celebrations.
How to properly celebrate Heritage Day
There is no single way of honouring your heritage in South Africa, and that, in a way, is what makes this nation one of the most unique on the planet.
Without a civil war, we have managed to all live under one roof, with enough space to practice our own cultural beliefs. So, celebrate your heritage the way you identify with your culture.
Alternatively, you can try any one of these suggestions on five creative ways to celebrate Heritage Day:
1. Host a Cultural Potluck
Invite friends and family to a potluck where each guest brings a dish representing their cultural background. Whether it’s bobotie, bunny chow, or boerewors, savour the flavours of South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage.
Share stories about the significance of each dish, making it a deliciously educational experience.
2. Explore Cultural Landmarks
Take a day trip to explore historical and cultural landmarks in your area. Visit museums, heritage sites, or cultural villages to gain insights into the history and traditions of different communities. It’s a fun and educational way to connect with South Africa’s diverse heritage.
3. Wear Traditional Attire
Show your appreciation for South Africa’s heritage by wearing traditional clothing from your culture or any other culture that interests you. Encourage friends and family to do the same. It’s a colourful and visual celebration of the nation’s diverse heritage.
4. Learn a Traditional Dance
Dancing is a fantastic way to connect with culture. Consider learning a traditional South African dance like the Zulu war dance or the energetic Pantsula. There are plenty of online tutorials to help you get your groove on, and you can even have a mini dance-off at your celebration.
5. Create a Heritage Scrapbook
Gather your family and create a heritage scrapbook. Share old family photos, stories, and mementoes that reflect your ancestry and cultural heritage. It’s a beautiful way to connect generations and preserve your family’s unique history.
Bonus Tip: Support Local Artisans
Consider buying traditional crafts and artworks from local artisans. It’s a way to appreciate and support the talents of South Africa’s diverse cultures while adding a touch of heritage to your home.
This Heritage Day, let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of South Africa’s heritage by embracing our cultural diversity and sharing in the traditions that make this country so vibrant and unique.
