Heritage Day, celebrated on September 24, is a significant public holiday that honours South Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Emerging from the post-1994 vision of the Rainbow Nation, this day was established to foster unity in diversity, reflecting the country’s journey towards reconciliation and nation-building.
Whether through traditional attire, communal braais, or cultural events, this day encourages South Africans to embrace their collective heritage and recognise the contributions of all communities to the nation’s vibrant tapestry. As it coincides with the arrival of spring, Heritage Day is not only a time for reflection but also a celebration of renewal and hope.
This year, Heritage Day falls on a Wednesday, but there are plenty of events happening throughout September to add to the calendar, hence Heritage Month. Here's a look at the highlights.
Wed, Sep 24 – Mark Heritage Day with Heritage Through the Brush at Alliance Française Soweto, a creative art session by Mashumi Art Projects with painting, platters, and plenty of inspiration.
Wed, Sep 24 – From book banter and author chats to wine tastings, feasts, games, and kiddies’ fun, the Parkview Heritage Festival takes over Tyrone Avenue with a celebration packed with stories and flavours.
Wed, Sep 24 – Enjoy free entrance to the Apartheid Museum this Heritage Day.
Wed, Sep 24 – Take advantage of free entrance to Constitution Hill on Heritage Day; book online via web tickets here.
Wed, Sep 24 – Celebrate ubuntu at Bryanston's Heritage Day Market. Enjoy live music, dance, art demos, kente weaving, and kids’ activities.
Wed, Sep 24 – Celebrate 50 years of SA jazz as Marcus Wyatt, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, and the ZAR Jazz Orchestra, plus special guests, take the stage for the Symphonic Jazz Festival 2025 at the Linder Auditorium.
Wed, Sep 24 – Get ready for a lekker Heritage Day with tasty treats, craft stalls, and live tunes at HeartSpace’s Heritage Day Market at the Edenvale German Club. Plus, it's pet-friendly.
Wed, Sep 24 – Heritage Day gets loud at the 011 Festival as 011 Skatepark, Edenvale turns into a playground of punk, hip hop, drum & bass, skate jams, street art, and family fun. Also, stick around for the afterparty if you’re craving even more of a good time.
Wed, Sep 24 – Vinyl African grooves and eclectic soundscapes take over NIROX Sculpture Park with Lawn Pavilion Lounge featuring DJ Bubbles, Flames Shilowa, and the legendary DJ Bob.
Wed, Sep 24 – Saddle up for the Girlies & Homies Day Ride with Banditz Bicycle Club and Girls on Bikes cruising Joburg’s streets on two wheels from 44 Stanley.
Wed, Sep 24 – Spend Heritage Day outdoors at Fieldberry Farm with orchard trails, a kids’ book day full of stories and sweet treats, and picnics packed with raspberry-fresh flavour.
Wed, Sep 24 – Fire up your heritage spirit at The Factory on Grant’s Heritage Day Potjie Competition, with simmering pots, big prizes, and flavours worth fighting for, happening in Norwood.
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