South African flag. Image: Flickr
Heritage Day South Africa: Five things to do to celebrate this day
Heritage Day in South Africa is a public holiday to celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, values, and norms.
South African flag. Image: Flickr
Heritage Day in South Africa is a special celebration of the country’s rich cultural diversity. It is marked on the 24th of September every year.
Did you know Heritage Day in South Africa is also known as Usuku Lwamagugu, Usuku lokugubha amasiko, or Shaka Day? South African citizens and residents are encouraged to mark this day in honour of their diverse cultures and norms.
WHAT IS HERITAGE DAY IN SOUTH AFRICA?
Heritage Day is an annual public holiday celebrated on the 24th of September. Why is Heritage Day celebrated in South Africa? It is a day to celebrate and honour people’s cultural beliefs and traditions.
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WHO STARTED HERITAGE DAY?
Years ago, Heritage Day was known as Shaka Day. Why was Heritage Day called Shaka Day? It was called this because people from KwaZulu-Natal commemorated Shaka Zulu on the day.
Shaka was a Zulu King of Southern Africa. He presumably died on the 24th of September. He is remembered as a leader who united all Zulu clans. Every year, people gather at the Shaka Memorial to honour him.
ALSO READ: ‘Proud Zulu girl’: MaMkhize and others celebrate Heritage Day
In 1996, The Public Holidays Bill was tabled and passed. It did not have Shaka Day. The exclusion promoted the Inkatha Freedom Party to include Shaka Day on the list of public holidays in the country. After a bit of back and forth, a compromise was reached to make 24th September the Heritage Day. The holiday was first marked on 24th September 1995.
FIVE THINGS TO DO TO CELEBRATE HERITAGE DAY IN SOUTH AFRICA
How will you be marking Heritage Day in 2023? Here are a few ways you can celebrate this public holiday.
Hit the streets
South Africa has Whites, Blacks, Indians, and coloured people. The country is rich in culture and traditions. You can take to the streets in your community’s traditional outfits to mark this day. Visit your region’s public sculptures, museums, historic monuments, and other landmarks before enjoying lunch at your favourite eatery.
Culture cook-off
Different South African communities have different signature dishes. You can mark this special day by cooking and sharing dishes from different communities with your friends and family. The cook-off will allow you ample bonding time.
Spread the uBuntu gospel
The uBuntu philosophy is about being human towards others. It promotes sharing and unity among community members. You can celebrate Heritage Day by sharing what you have with the needy in society.
Go hiking
Hiking is a fantastic idea if you would like to celebrate this public holiday outdoors. South Africa is endowed with numerous nature walks and hiking spots. You can go for a hike with your loved ones. The experience will allow you to exercise and reconnect with nature.
Plant an indigenous tree
Climate and environmental changes are among the most pressing issues worldwide. Between 2015 and 2021, South Africa lost 5% of its primary forest cover. People are encouraged to participate in environmental conservation measures to mitigate the effects of climate change. You can contribute by planting an indigenous tree to promote and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Heritage Day in South Africa is one of the most anticipated public holidays. It is a day to celebrate cultural diversity in the country.
