Heritage Day
Heritage Day is one of South Africa's 12 official public holidays under the Public Holidays Act (Act 36 of 1994). It falls on the same date every year. Next: 24 September 2027.
Always on 24/09
Next Occurrence
24 September 2027
Friday
Heritage Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 24 September 2026 | Thursday | — |
| 2027 Next | 24 September 2027 | Friday | — |
Heritage Day creates a 3-day long weekend in 2027
24 Sept – 26 Sept · No leave needed
Planning around Heritage Day 2027?
Heritage Day & the September School Break — Your Planning Guide — read the full spring holidays 2027 guide with weather, school terms, and travel tips.
Read the Spring Holidays 2027 guideMaximise your leave around Heritage Day 2027
24 Sept – 26 Sept · 0 leave day → 3 days off
See full leave planWhat is the history of Heritage Day?
Heritage Day celebrates South Africa's cultural diversity and the heritage of all its people. The date was chosen to coincide with Shaka Day, historically celebrated by Zulu people to honour King Shaka Zulu. After 1994, the day was broadened to celebrate all South African cultures and traditions. In 2005, the day gained an additional unofficial name 'National Braai Day' after a campaign to promote the South African tradition of braaiing (barbecuing) as something that unites all cultures.
Why do we celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa?
Heritage Day encourages South Africans to celebrate their diverse cultural heritage and traditions. It promotes unity through diversity, reminding citizens that their differences are a source of strength. The day often features traditional dress, music, dance, and food from various cultures.
How is Heritage Day celebrated in South Africa?
- Wearing traditional attire
- Cultural performances and festivals
- National Braai Day celebrations
- Traditional food preparation
- Heritage site visits
What's Open
Some malls, restaurants, cultural sites
What's Closed
Government offices, banks, schools
Related Holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Free things to do on public holidays
No budget required — these are free across South Africa and available year-round.
Public Libraries
Free membership at any municipal library. Most run free holiday programmes for children during school breaks — check your local branch for crafts, storytelling, and reading clubs.
Parks & Nature Reserves
Municipal parks, botanical gardens, and local nature reserves are free across all nine provinces. Bring a picnic and let kids run.
Beaches
Public beaches are free. Most municipal beaches have ablution facilities and lifeguards during peak season. Check local surf reports before heading out.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Thousands of free walking and hiking trails exist in municipal reserves, state forests, and green belts. Most are well-marked and family-friendly.
Museums & Galleries
Many national and provincial museums offer free entry, including the SA Museum (Cape Town), Museum Africa (Joburg), and Natal Museum (Pietermaritzburg). Check ahead for free days.
Sports & Recreation
Municipal sports fields, tennis courts, athletics tracks, and skate parks are generally free to use. Many municipalities also offer free swimming sessions on public holidays.
Planning a trip around Heritage Day?
Browse popular SA destinations for September — weather, activities, and what to do.
View School Terms by Province
See how Heritage Day falls within the school calendar: