Heritage Day is not just a public holiday – it’s a time for friends and families to come together to celebrate their similarities and differences. We’ve curated a list of proudly South African activities that will honour your heritage and create lasting memories.
Food for thought
If there's one thing South Africans love, it's kuiering, so why not celebrate your history, traditions 
and culture by hosting a dinner? Whether you opt for a bring-and-braai or a sit-down meal, food is a powerful way to connect people.
Ask each guest to bring a dish from their cultural background or a meal they have always wanted to try. This is a great way to experience the flavours that represent South Africa – from fragrant Cape Malay curries to flavour-packed Xhosa umngqusho (samp and beans) or the classic and delighful Afrikaans melktert.
Lights, camera, action!
Storytelling has always been part of our culture – so, let’s celebrate this time-honoured tradition with a movie marathon! South Africa has produced some exceptional films and documentaries, with engaging plots and important narratives. There are plenty to pick from and many are readily available online.
If sports are more your speed, nothing says “proudly South African” like cheering on your favourite local team in a nail-biting match. Invite your friends and family and make a day of it! Don’t forget
the snacks – stock up on homegrown favourites, like biltong, Nik Naks, Romany Creams, fizzers and speckled eggs!
Branch out
Heritage Month is about celebrating where we come from – and what better way to honour those roots than by creating a family tree? This fun and meaningful activity allows you to explore your past and spend quality time with your family.
Gather your relatives one afternoon and go through old photos, share stories and trace your ancestry. You might even uncover some surprising revelations along the way! Plus, it’s a keepsake that’ll grow with each new generation.
Deck your halls, floors and more
Your home reflects your identity, making September the perfect time to embrace your culture through creative home décor. Give your heirloom pieces – such as a blanket or throw passed down through generations, a sculpture or rug – pride of place this month.
If you own any South African art or African-inspired furnishings, like cushions or table runners, make them a focal point in your home. You could even dedicate a section of your lounge to displaying cultural keepsakes or handmade items from local artisans. It will not only add beauty to your space but also serve as a daily reminder of the talented and passionate individuals that make South Africa truly special.
Chair-ish every moment
Heritage Month coincides with spring – a time to breathe new life into your home. One way to do this is by restoring an old or treasured piece of furniture. It could be anything from a vintage armchair from an antique store to an inherited sideboard or a dusty vanity you found in a family member’s garage.
Start with the basics – clean it up and assess the damage. If you can repair it, go ahead! If it needs some extra TLC, perhaps enlist some expert help. Next is a fresh coat of paint or varnish. If it needs reupholstering, choose a fabric that inspires you or reflects your cultural roots. Shweshwe is always a beautiful and bold option.
This might be a time-consuming project, but it will be a unique addition to your home that is both a sentimental and a historical reminder of who you are and what you value.
Bringing heritage into your home – by sharing a meal with loved ones, watching a local film or game on TV, learning more about your history or upcycling a treasured piece of furniture – can be a wonderful way to celebrate being South African, while also connecting you with your past, present and future.
