National Braai Day in Cape Town
Get ready to bring and braai! On the 24th September, Cape Town celebrates the South African custom of National Braai Day. No idea what National Braai Day (in Cape Town or anywhere else in South Africa) involves? Read on, and all will be revealed…
What is a Braai?
“Braai”, in Afrikaans, means something like “grill” or “barbeque”. “Braaivleis” refers to grilled meat, but in reality a braai is about much more than just a couple of steaks. It’s also an important social custom, and the sunny South African months make this an excellent outdoor activity with friends. As well as steaks, a typical Cape Town braai might include things like “sosasties” (meat skewers), kebabs, sausages and fish, topped off with spicy chalaka or monkeygland sauce (don’t be alarmed, this is actually similar to Worcester sauce, and no monkeys were harmed in its making). Be aware that, if invited to attend a braai, custom is to leave the cooking to the chief braaier, unless you are asked to help.
National Braai Day
In 2005, National Braai Day was introduced into South Africa by the Mzansi Braai Institute. Seen as a way to unite the people of South Africa through common tradition, National Braai Day is held on what is officially known as the public holiday of National Heritage Day. It’s endorsed by South Africa’s National Heritage Council, as well as Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
National Braai Day is likened by the organisers to other national celebrations, such as Bastille Day and Thanksgiving, although efforts are being made to spread the custom to other countries, too – organisers have stated that their mission for 2012 is to get at least one person to braai in every country in the world.
Celebrating Braai Day in Cape Town
National Braai Day in Cape Town is a day for all residents of the city to “light fires, and prepare great feasts”, as is stated on the official website. Great places to celebrate National Braai Day in Cape Town include the luscious Tokai Forest (where the braai area is just before the Tokai Manor House), Maiden’s Cove near famous Clifton Beach and Wynberg Park. All have several braai areas, which are open to the public either for free or at a small charge of R10 per adult/car (Tokai Forest).
You can take the pledge to celebrate National Braai Day in Cape Town along with 24,000 other braaiers worldwide on the organisation’s Facebook page.
Penelope –Marketing Team
