Heritage Day is a public holiday celebrated in South Africa. It takes place annually on the 24th of September. This day is significant in the country as it recognizes the diverse cultural heritage that makes up the population of South Africa. It is a day where South Africans celebrate their culture and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions, in the wider context of the great diversity of cultures, beliefs, and traditions that make up the nation of South Africa.
History of Heritage Day goes back to the Zulu ruler, King Shaka who is known for uniting various Zulu clans into a cohesive nation. The day was initially established as King Shaka Day, in which the Zulu Kingdom would gather to honor him. It was included in the Public Holidays Bill presented to the South African Parliament at the time of democratic transition in 1995. However, it was not included initially in the proposed official holiday roster. After negotiation, it was ultimately resolved to position this day as a national holiday, which came to be known as Heritage Day.
Heritage Day is often celebrated with social gatherings and festive events. It's customary on this day to hold braais (barbecues), with people lighting up their grills in recognition of the holiday. Other people also use this day to pay visits to cultural heritage sites and take part in traditional festivities and events. Through commemorating Heritage Day, South Africans are encouraged to celebrate not only their own cultural heritage, but also to appreciate all the diverse cultures, traditions, languages, and histories that make up the South African population.