Tomorrow, 24 September, is Heritage Day, where all South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions within the wider context of all of us recognising and celebrating the many diverse cultures, beliefs and traditions that make up our nation.
On Heritage Day in 1996, former President Nelson Mandela stated: “When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.”
The public holiday also sees many South Africans celebrating those things which build a shared culture, like having a braai.
Another tradition shared by South Africans across all cultures is enjoying an ice cold beer, the most popular beverage in the country.
According to the International Wines and Spirits Record (IWSR), South African consumed 4 billion litres in alcohol in 2017, with the beer sector taking up 74% of the market share.
Stats SA recently revealed that beer takes up over one third of household’s spending on beverages followed by fizzy drinks and spirit coolers.
Beer is an integral part of South African culture and to showcase this two local film makers have recently produced a documentary called “Brewing the Republic”, which provides a visual scope of where we are as a beer loving nation.
In particular, the documentary focuses on the growth of craft beer in the country. It showcases a handful of beers and breweries across South Africa, including revealing what it takes for a home brewer to become a commercial brewer. People who are passionate about craft beer are showcased as well as the beautiful landscapes where South Africans enjoy drinking beer.
The documentary will be available to watch on Amazon Prime Video from the first week of October. Details coming soon!
In the meantime, as we get ready to celebrate Heritage Day and our rich diversity, you can click here to watch the Brewing Republic trailer.
The BASA wishes everyone a happy and wonderful Heritage Day!
UPDATE: Brewing the Republic is LIVE. Click the link below:
https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0RZHO90PZ31U337PFZUVU64MTU/ref=atv_hm_hom_c_8pZiqd_2_2
