Things to do this Heritage Day

Celebrate heritage this week with these activities

Last updated: Tuesday, 16 September 2025

Every September 24th, we celebrate the rich and diverse heritage of our country. While you might think of it as just "Braai Day," it’s so much more than that. This Heritage Day, you can visit the largest exhibition of bronze statues anywhere in the world, for free, celebrate live African music at the Mojo Market, try stargazing, browse a free market, and more.

FREE GUIDED HERITAGE TOUR

Heritage Day means free entry for all South Africans to Long March to Freedom, the largest exhibition of its kind in the world. There’ll be games and competitions for kids, and specials at the café. All that’s asked is a small donation of any kind and a Google review. You’ll meet over 100 historic icons crafted in bronze, on a heritage-themed guided tour.

When: Wednesday, 24 September; 10am to 4.30pm
Cost: Free, see Facebook Event

Century Boulevard | Century City | @longmarchtofreedom | Image: Long March To Freedom

STREET FESTIVAL IN SEAPOINT

The Heritage Day Street Fest is a full day of local flavour and music, from Afro jazz to amapiano. Expect 16 live bands, DJs, and performers like Vusi Mahlasela, Zolani Mahola, and Jimmy Nevis. There’s also street food, drinks, and a thrift market. Come dressed in your best traditional outfit for the celebration.

When: Wednesday, 24 September; 12pm to 11pm 
Cost: Tickets from R50, book via Quicket

Mojo Market | 30 Regent Road | Sea Point | @themojomarket | Image: Mojo Market

FREE HISTORY TOUR & STARGAZING 

The South African Astronomical Observatory is doing free guided day tours and a special stargazing session. You’ll discover historic telescopes, and even take part in a treasure hunt. As night falls, astronomers will lead a stargazing presentation. Tickets are free, but booking is essential.

When: Wednesday, 24 September; 9am to 10pm
Cost: Free, book via Quicket


SAAO |1 Observatory Road | Observatory | @saao_astro | NRF-South African Astronomical Observatory

CHARITY RUN FOR ANIMALS 

Rescue is Life is hosting a charity run or walk to raise funds for animals in need. The 12km route runs from Fish Hoek Beach to Simon’s Town Station and back, with shorter options available. All participants receive medals, and prizes are up for grabs for top finishers, best-dressed participants, and fundraising champions.

When: Wednesday, 24 September; 7am to 10am
Cost: Tickets from R130, book via Quicket

Fish Hoek Beach parking lot | Beach Road | Fish Hoek | @rescue_is_life_cpt | Unspash

FREE HERITAGE DAY MARKET 

The Heritage Day Market at De Waal Park is a free market filled with curated goods, treats and crafts. You can browse body mists from Hello Sunshine Fragrances, jewellery from Made With Love, sustainable fashion fits from Slow Studio, and more. It’s good to know the park is dog-friendly.

When: Wednesday, 24 September; 9am to 3pm
Cost: Free, book via Quicket

Gardens Lawn Tennis Club | Molteno Road | @globalconnectionscpt | Unsplash

HERITAGE DAY SPECIAL AT RADISSON HOTEL

Right downstairs at the Radisson Hotel, Filini restaurant is serving a special South African feast. The Heritage Day special has a juicy lamb chop, sirloin and chicken breast with pap and chakalaka. It’s paired with a Stella Artois or Brutal Fruit Litchi Spritzer on the house, Plus see all the other comfort dishes you can try at Radisson Foreshore. 

When: Friday, 19 September to Sunday,  28 September; 12pm to 10pm 
Cost: Heritage day special for R295

29 Heerengracht Street | Foreshore | @radissonhotelcapetown | Image: Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore

By Keana Ludski 

---

MORE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THIS WEEK:

We’ve rounded up free and budget-friendly activities for kids.

Family outings are easy with our list of 65+ things to do with kids.

No weekend plans? There’s always 7+ things to do this weekend.

---

Loved discovering this?  Make sure you get our popular weekly newsletter.Follow and like us on Twitter ❤ Facebook ❤ LinkedIn ❤ Instagram ❤ Pinterest for updates