South Africa targets braai Guinness World Record at Loftus Versfeld

South Africans have once again been called upon to gather around the fire this Heritage Day for another attempt at bringing the Guinness World Record for the most people braaiing simultaneously back to Mzansi.

The World’s Biggest Braai will take place at Loftus Versfeld on Thursday, 24 September, with organisers targeting a 3 000 participants across 500 braais.

Heritage Day, is of course, a public holiday.

The event aims to turn one of South Africa’s most beloved traditions into a global record-breaking celebration, combining food, music, culture and community.

Last year’s attempt attracted 2 412 participants, comfortably exceeding the existing Guinness World Record of 2 220 people.

However, the attempt was not officially certified after a technical requirement relating to participants remaining at their designated braai stations for the required period was not met.

Organisers are now returning with a bigger target and a renewed determination to get the record officially recognised.

Mzansi wants the record

The 2026 attempt will begin at 10:00, with stewards and independent witnesses overseeing the braais in accordance with Guinness World Records requirements.

But the record attempt is only part of the Heritage Day celebration.

Once the braai is complete, the venue will transform into a full festival featuring performances from some of South Africa’s biggest music acts, including Mafikizolo, Shekhinah, Matthew Mole, Lady Zamar, Zaan Sonnekus and Ben Rodrigues.

Food, bars, brand activations and family-friendly activities will add to the festival atmosphere.

More than just a braai

For organisers, the event is intended to celebrate the cultural significance of the braai while bringing South Africans together around a shared tradition.

Tickets cost R255 per person and include the equipment and supplies required for the record attempt, as well as access to the festival and live entertainment.