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Embracing cultural connection at the World’s Biggest braai this Heritage Day

Food, human connection and Mzansi's multicultural spirit intersect at the second edition of the World's Biggest Braai in Pretoria this Heritage Day.

Mbali Mbatha
Written by
Mbali Mbatha
City Editor
Boerewors, steak, chicken and all things meaty at this year's World's Biggest Braai.
All Gold SAInstagram page | Boerewors, steak, chicken and all things meaty at this year's World's Biggest Braai.
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At the centre of South Africa’s heritage is the celebratory spirit that fills the air when its multicultural communities come together.

And there’s no better setting for food and cultures to connect than a braai. So, this Heritage Day, Big Save once again assembles the people of Mzansi at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria for this year’s edition of the World’s Biggest Braai.

Last year’s inaugural edition attracted a crowd of more than 2400 and the aim was to beat Japan’s record of 2200, set in 2023. 

However, due to a technicality, the Pretoria event did not get certified by Guinness World Records, but the people of Mzansi are convening to dust themselves off and try again.

 South Africans gather for the second edition of Big Save's Wotld's Biggest Braai in Pretoria thisHeritage Day.
White StarSouth Africans gather for the second edition of Big Save's Wotld's Biggest Braai in Pretoria thisHeritage Day.

There’s more to a braai than just throwing meat on a fire and digging in, however. For South Africans, these gatherings are rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu, connecting families and friends for an exchange of stories where oral literature becomes the medium through which traditions are passed from one generation to the next.

Proceedings will be led by choreographer and media personality Bontle Modiselle-Moloi, and the entertainment offerings include a dance battle, interactive games, competitions and other forms of live entertainment.

Pap, which is one of Mzansi’s favourite staples across all the cultures that intersect in this country, is a regular dish accompanying meat at braais.

White Star maize meal, which was present at last year’s inaugural edition of the World’s Biggest Braai, makes a return this year to ensure that the people are fed.

Nearly 2500 people of Gauteng gathered in Pretoria last year and this year will be even bigger!
White StarNearly 2500 people of Gauteng gathered in Pretoria last year and this year will be even bigger!

Its marketing manager, Jonita Cuff, described Heritage Day as an opportunity to celebrate the traditions, people and shared experiences that continue to shape the Rainbow Nation’s DNA.

“The braai is one of those traditions that transcends generations and communities.”

“Through our participation in Big Save Braai Day, we are celebrating that spirit of togetherness while creating a space where people can come together through food, culture and shared moments,” she said.

Capturing memories is an important part of celebration, and guests will be able to record their experiences through dedicated photography and social media content opportunities.

  • What: Big Save's World's Biggest Braai
  • When: 24 September
  • Where: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
  • Cost: R155 kids under 12, R205 adults on Howler.

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