South Africa’s Spring Day Tradition Takes a Dark Turn

 

Every year on 1 September, South Africans celebrate Spring Day; a cherished tradition, especially in townships. The day marks the start of spring and is celebrated by splashing water on friends, family, and sometimes strangers. This playful custom symbolises renewal, purification, and community spirit. It is similar to water festivals celebrated worldwide, such as Poland’s Śmigus-Dyngus and Thailand’s Songkran.

However, Spring Day 2025 saw a sharp rise in incidents where water was splashed on people without their consent, causing distress and sparking fierce debates.

When Fun Crossed the Line

One particularly distressing video, which quickly went viral, showed a grown homeless man being splashed with water by an adult while an audience of adults laughed. The old man walked away in defeat, visibly soaked and humiliated; a scene that many South Africans found deeply upsetting.

Another clip showed a schoolboy holding his younger brother’s hand, carrying their schoolbooks, while water was thrown over them. The innocence of the children made these incidents even more poignant on a day meant for joy.

In other unsettling footage, a man driving his car was sprayed with water as he passed through a township. In response, he stopped his vehicle and chased the culprits with a sjambok. Similarly, a vegetable vendor who was doused with water took out a knife and ran after one of the offenders—a video that abruptly ended, leaving viewers concerned.

A woman shared how she was splashed on her way to a job interview. Already running late, she arrived soaked and ultimately missed out on the opportunity.

In a more worrying TikTok video, a vegetable vendor was doused and responded by pulling a knife, but the footage ended suddenly before the outcome was seen.

Social Media

Social media platforms were filled with lively discussions. Many condemned the lack of consent:

“Spring Day is about joy, not forcing water on unwilling people. Respect is key. #SpringDayRespect” — @SocialJusticeSA
“Seeing that businessman drenched left me unsettled. This isn’t how we celebrate. #ConsentMatters” — @UrbanVoiceZA

Others highlighted the importance of conserving water amid South Africa’s drought crisis:

“Water is a precious resource, especially now. Let’s celebrate without waste. #SaveWater” — @EcoWarriorSA
“Great tradition, but we must evolve it with care and respect for all. #SpringDay2025” — @CommunityFirst

Official Warnings and Appeal for Responsible Celebrations

The Department of Water and Sanitation urged citizens to celebrate responsibly, stressing water conservation and respect for others.

A spokesperson said, “Spring Day is a beautiful cultural celebration, but it must be observed with respect and mindfulness. Water is a vital resource, and wasting it is not an option.”

Despite the issues, Spring Day remains a source of joy and community connection. This year’s incidents offer an important lesson: traditions must be enjoyed with thoughtfulness and consent, ensuring everyone feels safe and included.