Family Day

Family Day History

Family Day is a day to appreciate and cherish the value of family relationships. The celebration aims to encourage families to spend quality time together, nurture their bonds, and create a strong foundation for a harmonious and loving family environment. On this day, numerous activities, events, and gatherings take place to promote family unity and emphasize the importance of family values in society.

Family Day has its roots in the Christian Easter celebrations, specifically Easter Monday. Over time, the holiday has evolved to be more inclusive, encompassing not only the Christian community but the general population as well. In South Africa, the day serves as an opportunity to encourage family unity and togetherness across diverse communities, cultures, and religions. As a melting pot of various traditions, Family Day represents the unique and vibrant spirit of South Africa, fostering understanding, tolerance, and respect for one another's backgrounds.

Family Day is typically observed with numerous activities and events that promote family interaction and bonding. This includes picnics, visits to parks, family-oriented festivals, and community events. Many South Africans also use this day as an opportunity to relax at home, enjoying the company of their family members. Family Day in usually takes place on the Monday following Easter Sunday, providing a long weekend for families to enjoy each other's company and celebrate their combined heritage.

Family Day Facts & Quotes

• According to Africa GeoPortal, in 2023, the average household size in South Africa was 3.5 people.
• Before Family Day, South Africans enjoy the Good Friday holiday and both Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday to make a 4-day weekend.
• According to Macro Trends, in 2023, the infant mortality rate decreased to 23 deaths per 1000 births, a 3.02% decline compared to 2022.
• Family is not an important thing, it's everything. - Michael J Fox, American Actor
• The family is the nucleus of civilization - Will Durant, American writer and philosopher
• A child's cognitive, emotional, and social development is significantly affected by the quality of family interactions and relationships.

In the News and Trending for Family Day

Family Day Top Things to Do

• Take advantage of the day off to stop by some of the museums and cultural sights throughout the country. Some great options of museums include the Isiko Museum, the Robben Island Museum and the Anglo-Boer War Museum.
• Watch a movie about the importance of family bonds. Some of our favourites are Home Alone (1990), Finding Nemo (2003), The Incredibles (2004), The Lion King (1994) and The Chronicles of Narnia (2005).
• Give back to your community and to those who do not have families to spend this day with. Organisations offer weekend foster care and day outings for orphan children. You can either take a child with you on your Family Day or you can donate to help others grant these types of opportunities to children in need.
• Raise awareness for the day on social media by posting pictures of your day and your family time with hashtags such as#FamilyDay, #SouthAfricanFamilyDay and #FamilyTime.
• Host a BBQ with your friends and family. Enjoy the long weekend outdoors in the spring time air. Try grilling local meats and making dishes such as antelope, boerewors, bobotie, chakalaka and pap.