Freedom Day indoors: How to commemorate 26 years of democracy

It is 26 years since the first post-apartheid democratic elections were held in South Africa. “Solidarity and triumph of human spirit in these challenging times” is an appropriate theme for Freedom Day this year.

The president is expected to address the nation on the eve of the public holiday and any Freedom Day events that would have taken place were either cancelled or have moved online. There are ways that you can still celebrate this significant day at home and follow lockdown regulations.

Sound the call to come together

Singing the national anthem during lockdown is not something out of the ordinary. The Shoprite Holding Company has played the anthem during lunch time, encouraging employees and shoppers to sing along. Neighbours have sung the national anthem to keep spirits up during this period of isolation.

However, Independent Media has asked South African’s to unite once again at 18:00 on Monday, 27 April. South Africans are asked to sing aloud, be heard by neighbours and to share videos of this special moment.

Celebrate past South African wins

Nelson Mandela once said, “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.”

It is thus fitting for DStv to rebroadcast memorable sporting moments. For rugby fanatics and sports enthusiasts, you will be able to relive sporting moments on Freedom Day. The Freedom Day RWC special will highlight moments such as the 1995, 2007, 2019 South African Rugby World Cup wins in addition to a screening of the popular sports drama movie, Invictus.

Freedom Day traditional dishes

With restaurants still not being able to open their doors and food delivery services only available from the end of the week, here are some meals that you can make to commemorate Freedom Day.

If the weather allows for it, you can’t go wrong with a braai or better known as shisa nyama. For a warmer alternative, a potjie, chakalaka and pap, bobotie or vetkoek provide a good substitute. For dessert, you cannot go wrong with Peppermint Crisp tart or a milktart, unique to South Africa.

No matter how you spend the day, this will be a Freedom Day you will never forget.

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