Get ready for the Smit & Kie Family Day
1 May 2026 | Letaba Rugby Club Sport Grounds
A day for the whole family in Tzaneen
The much-loved Smit & Kie Family Day is back, and it’s set to bring the community together once again on May 1 (Workers’ Day) at the Letaba Showgrounds in Tzaneen.
The day starts bright and early with a fun and energetic 5km run at 06:00, taking families from the showgrounds to the Tzaneen Dam wall – the perfect way to kick off a day filled with laughter, connection, and community spirit.
From there, the showgrounds will come alive with something for everyone. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, from a lively talent show showcasing local singing, dancing, drama, and art, to fun attractions like a dunk tank and racing simulators. Local musicians will keep the atmosphere buzzing with great music throughout the day, while community clubs – add to the excitement.
More than just a fun day out, the event is all about giving back. All proceeds will go towards meaningful causes in the community, making every ticket count.
Whether you’re coming for the fun run, the entertainment, or simply to spend quality time together, this is a day designed to celebrate family, friendship, and community.
Bring the family and be part of something special.
Anwen Mojela
The upcoming Smit & Kie Family Day is set to be more than just a fun-filled gathering. At its core, it is a deeply rooted initiative driven by compassion, unity, and a shared responsibility to uplift others.
Organised by Smit & Kie Brokers in partnership with the Letaba Tzaneen Lions Club, on Worker’s Day, May 1 every year, the event reflects a long-standing commitment to giving back to the community while fostering meaningful connections among residents.
According to organisers, the purpose is to facilitate charity fundraising for various organisations within the Tzaneen community and surrounding areas. It is designed as a platform that brings people together not only for enjoyment but also to actively contribute to causes that make a real difference in people’s lives.
As Gericke Du Plessis of Smit & Kie explains: “It is a platform that brings people together not only to enjoy themselves but also to contribute to causes that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
This is not a new initiative for the community. The family day was successfully hosted several years ago before being reintroduced four years ago. Since its revival, it has steadily grown in popularity and impact. This year marks the third edition since its return, and organisers are optimistic about its continued success.
Beyond fundraising, the event places strong emphasis on the connection between residents.
Du Plessis notes: “In an increasingly fast-paced world, opportunities for genuine connection can be rare.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of the event is seeing families come together. Parents, children, and friends are given the opportunity to bond, participate in activities, and share experiences in a relaxed and welcoming environment, all while contributing to a greater cause.
The event also serves as a platform to showcase local talent and organisations. Sporting clubs and community groups benefit from the exposure, helping them to build networks, attract new members, and strengthen their presence within the region.
Organisers highlight that collaboration is at the heart of the initiative. Various stakeholders, from charities to sports clubs, work together to create a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that benefits the wider community.
Du Plessis emphasises this spirit of unity, stating: “The spirit of the event lies in collaboration.”
As preparations continue, organisers remain hopeful that this year’s event will once again bring people together for a day filled with joy, purpose, and meaningful impact.
The Smit & Kie Family Day has continued to grow significantly over the past few years, strengthening both its attendance figures and its ability to raise meaningful financial support for charitable organisations. Since its reintroduction four years ago, the event has become an important fixture on the local calendar, reflecting the strong spirit of generosity within the community.
Year on year, the event has demonstrated consistent fundraising success. In 2023, a total of R86 810 was raised, marking a strong return and highlighting the community’s enthusiasm for supporting initiatives that give back. In 2024, the momentum continued with R85 400 raised, confirming the event’s stability and sustained relevance.
The most notable growth came in 2025, when the Smit & Kie Family Day raised an impressive R127 496. This significant increase reflects the growing support from attendees, sponsors, and participants, as well as the increasing trust in the event’s organisation and the causes it supports. Organisers say the rise in contributions demonstrates a deepening sense of community involvement and shared purpose.
Money raised over the years has been distributed among several deserving organisations, including SAVF, Goue Jare Bejaardesorg, and Helpende Hand. These charities provide essential support to individuals and families in need, ranging from welfare assistance to broader community upliftment programmes.
The organisers of the Smit & Kie Family Day have emphasised that the event’s success would not be possible without the ongoing support of the community. Every ticket purchased, activity supported, and sponsorship secured contributes directly to the funds raised and the positive impact achieved.
The event also continues to support a mix of both established and smaller local organisations, ensuring that assistance reaches a wide range of causes. This inclusive approach has helped extend the event’s impact beyond a single focus, benefiting various sectors within the community.
Gericke Du Plessis of Smit & Kie highlighted the importance of the initiative and its growing impact:
“The Smit & Kie Family Day has become a true reflection of what community spirit can achieve. Seeing the consistent growth in support each year is incredibly rewarding, and it is a privilege to be part of an event that continues to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
With continued community engagement and support, the Smit & Kie Family Day is expected to further strengthen its role as a key contributor to local development and charitable impact.
