Freedom Day

Freedom Day in South Africa 

Celebrates freedom and commemorates the first democratic post-apartheid non-racial elections held on April 27th 1994, which saw Nelson Mandela elected as President

When is Freedom Day?   Freedom Day is a South African public holiday that is celebrated on April 27th each year.  If April 27th falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will be observed as a holiday.

History of Freedom Day:    The day celebrates freedom and commemorates the first democratic post-apartheid non-racial elections that were held on April 27th 1994, which saw Nelson Mandela elected as President. The 1994 elections were the first time everyone of voting age of over 18 from all race groups, including foreign citizens permanently resident in South Africa, were allowed to vote. Under the apartheid regime, non-whites had limited voting rights.  Freedom Day is the National Day of South Africa and is a day of glory and remembrance for all South Africans that marks the end of the period of colonialism and Apartheid. In South Africa, Freedom day is an inclusive celebration enabling South Africans from all corners of society to commemorate the pain of the past, and celebrate the victorious future of our country. By taking the necessary steps forward to put closure to the past while not forgetting it, but through celebrating this day as an everlasting reminder for us, now and for future generations. ... Because freedom belongs to all this day should not be mistaken by the people of South Africa as just another holiday, but encourage the people of South Africa to come together, rebohle, sisonke, sibanye and work as one nation not forgetting the quest for freedom that consumed the life’s of those who fought so hard for it. Freedom day is a memorable event throughout South Africa and each year the National Celebration forms the basis for conveying the message of unity in diversity for all. To enforce a change in the attitude among the people of South Africa with our unique, diverse ethnic, cultural, and national background to inspire the people to be innovative and build a better South Africa together and to excel in all aspects of life. Hear our voices, speak our mind, see the change.

https://www.officeholidays.com/holidays/south-africa/south-africa-freedom-day