National Braai Day

Light that fire.

Today is National Heritage Day (you know the one where we all celebrate our heritage), but, this morning when I woke up, I heard that National Heritage Day had been replaced by National Braai Day. Not sure how this happened, must have been when I was sleeping because somebody forgot to send me the email !!!!

Well, first thing this morning, I get the request that we must have a braai. Now don't get me wrong... I have nothing against a braai, but what normally ends up happening is that I end up doing all the work and the person braaing the meat gets all the credit. The merits of using the correct temperature and woods are discussed in deep earnest. The other problem that I see is that all our neighbours are going to celebrate National Braai day and we will stick out like sore thumbs if we do not put some boeries on the fire and be a little patriotic.

Started in 2005 the initiative is a non-profit organisation solely committed to uniting South Africans through means of an activity enjoyed by all and for which we are world-famous.

Braai Day officially announced that Archbishop Desmond Tutu will be the organisations first patron. Archbishop Tutu is recognised by all South Africans as a bearer of peace and goodwill. We are proud to have him as our patron.

The Archbishop said that he accepts the patronage with pride. “This National Braai Day initiative reflects the spirit of South Africans and embodies the unique methods we employ as a nation to promote democracy, patriotism and national pride.”

Last year, more than 12 million South Africans engaged in the beloved activity on Heritage Day. Braai Day is hoping to bring that number to a phenomenal 30 million participants for 2007. Their vision is to see Braai Day being celebrated with as much national attention and festivity as the 4th of July in America and St Patrick’s Day in Ireland.

This year, braaiers nationwide will be encouraged to SMS their braai spots and numbers of people attending National Braai Day.

You can show your support of National Braai Day by sending an SMS to 34761 on 24 September. (Only in South Africa)

For more information visit the official National Braai Day Website.

So all of you patriotic SAfricans ... have a good one !!!