Why Family Day is celebrated in South Africa
Government renamed the day to ensure every family in the country, regardless of religion, could celebrate the day in the same way.
POLOKWANE – Today is the last day of a well deserved long weekend. After the religious-activities of Easter, most families take this day to recuperate before going back to work.
Before 1995, Family Day was known as Easter Monday. During his presidency, Nelson Mandela’s government decided to change the name of this holiday.
The government renamed the day to ensure every family in the country, regardless of religion, could celebrate the day in the same way.
The days preceding Family Day is to commemorate Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
Christians have been commemorating Easter since Palm Sunday (the Sunday before Easter) as well as Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday.
By renaming the day it was stripped of all references, making it a family holiday instead of a religious day.
Since the day is celebrated the day after Easter Sunday, its date is directly dependent on when Easter is celebrated.
Family Day can be celebrated in different ways, whether it is a day out with your loved ones, a braai at home or a relaxing day doing nothing.
Some families use the time to play board-games, while others just take it easy by doing as little as possible, just relaxing after a busy weekend.
