Thousands of people came together at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria to braai simultaneously in an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the biggest braai.

The event also forms part of Heritage Day celebration.

The event comes after a previous attempt fell short, with Big Save and the 5FM team up to take another shot at claiming the title.

Participants also celebrated South African food, music and culture as they attempted to break the record for the most people braaiing simultaneously.

Masi Mdingane, of 5FM and Good Hope FM, said the goal for 2026 was massive, with 3 000 participants around 500 braais cooking together in one co-ordinated, record-breaking moment.

“The World’s Biggest Braai is more than a record attempt, it’s a celebration of who we are, and we’re proud to stand with Big Save as we help to fire up a global news moment the whole country can share,” said Mdingane.

Last year, the event drew 2 412 participants, surpassing the existing record of 2 220, but the attempt was not certified due to a technical requirement stating that participants must remain at their designated braai stations for the required period.

Mdingane said this year, Big Save and 5FM returned with renewed determination, adding that South Africans showed just how much they wanted to be part of something historic, and that the team was coming back bigger, better and even more prepared to bring the record home.

The music festival followed the attempt to break the world record which began at 10:00 sharp. Participants braaied together under the supervision of stewards and independent witnesses in accordance with Guinness World Records requirements.

As aspiring joint world record holders gathered around the fire, 5FM was on the ground with five Mid Mornings with Karabo broadcasting live from the location, connecting listeners nationwide to the sizzling action to the beat of some banging tunes.

One participant, Bright Mvubu, who came with friends, said he loved to braai and enjoyed himself.

The world record attempt was followed by a Heritage Day festival featuring some of South Africa’s biggest artists, including Mafikizolo, Shekhinah, Matthew Mole, Lady Zamar, Zaan Sonnekus and Ben Rodrigues, alongside food, cool brand activations, bars, activities and a full festival atmosphere at one of the country’s most iconic venues.

Mdingane said: “5FM is always where the heat is at, and there’s no better way to lead us up to our birthday month in October than through a world record. “When South Africans come together to make history, you’ll find us right there in the middle of the action, bringing the vibe and moving the crowds that move the world,” said Mdingane.

Big Save said the World’s Biggest Braai was about celebrating something that belongs to all South Africans and creating a moment in history that everyone could share.

Organisers were asked if they managed to break the Guinness World Record of people braaing simultaneously but they are still waiting for confirmation.

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