Freedom Day (Public Holiday)

South Africa celebrates the day it had its first democratic elections

This public holiday celebrates freedom and commemorates the first democratic post-Apartheid elections held on that day in 1994, when Nelson Mandela was elected as President of South Africa.

Freedom Day marks the liberation of South Africa and its people from a long period of colonialism and white minority domination. For South Africans, just being able to vote is precious and for many it was one of the most memorable days of their lives.

South Africans spent hours queing in the hot South African sun to exercise their long withheld right to vote. This public holiday is marked by political rallies and key note addresses form politicians and struggle veterans.

Molo Says: For many of us it is hard to imagine what it is like to go through our whole lives without the democratic right to vote. Nelson Mandela nearly spent his entire life in prison on Robben Island so all Black South Africans could eventually be free.Discover more information on Nelson Mandela with CapeTownMagazine.com.

Learn more about South African Public Holidays:

New Years Day
Human Rights Day
Good Friday
Family Day
Workers Day
Youth Day
National Women's Day
Heritage Day
Day of Reconciliation
Christmas Day
Day of Goodwill


There is always something special happening across the country on public holidays, so keep an eye on our events section for updates as well as other amazing events happening in and around Cape Town throughout the year.

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