JOHANNESBURG -Heritage Day is a public holiday celebrated on the 24th of September every year.
The day was established to promote national unity and encourage South Africans to embrace and respect multiculturalism.
The country has 12 official languages and even more different cultures.
On Heritage Day citizens are encouraged to celebrate their heritages by sharing traditional foods, music and dances, as well as engaging in cultural ceremonies and festivals.
WATCH | Celebrating our rich and diverse cultures
The day aims to foster a sense of pride in one’s identity and heritage, while appreciating those of other South Africans.
Heritage Day has fostered its own tradition of being "braai day", with South Africans enjoying meat on the flames with family and friends, symbolising unity across different cultures.
The day serves as an opportunity for people to reflect on their roots, learn from one another, and appreciate the tapestry of cultures that make up South Africa.
-Tshenolo Khaile