By Marcus Moloko
South Africa’s diverse cultural landscape has long been marked by unique traditions, and among them is the practice of New Year’s Eve bonfires.
Video by Bongani Joka/Facebook
In certain communities, residents historically gathered to welcome the new year by stacking old tyres around a tree and setting them alight.
The ritual symbolised burning away the hardships of the past year and ushering in renewal, unity, and hope for the year ahead.
This tradition, while not widespread across the country, has been particularly visible in townships and peri‑urban areas where bonfires became a communal event.
The practice dates back decades, when communities used available materials — often discarded tyres — as fuel for large fires.
The towering flames served as a beacon of celebration, drawing neighbours together in song, dance, and reflection.
For many, it was more than spectacle; it was a cultural marker of resilience, a way of transforming waste into light and warmth, and a symbolic cleansing of the old year’s struggles.
Today, some South Africans continue to uphold this custom, seeing it as a link to their heritage and a reminder of community solidarity.
The bonfire remains a powerful image of collective joy, especially in areas where formal fireworks displays are inaccessible or unaffordable.
However, the tradition also carries risks. Burning tyres releases toxic fumes and poses serious fire hazards, particularly in densely populated neighbourhoods.
Recognising these dangers, the City of Johannesburg has issued a reminder to residents about the risks of uncontrolled fires, urging communities to treat fire safety as a collective responsibility.
In a recent public awareness campaign, the city emphasised caution with open flames, including bonfires, braais, and informal heating methods often used during festive gatherings.
The message is clear: while traditions hold cultural significance, they must be balanced with safety to protect lives and property.
The campaign highlights how quickly an uncontrolled fire can spread, especially when fuelled by flammable materials like tyres.
Residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly, ensuring that bonfires are contained, kept away from homes and vegetation, and monitored closely. Emergency numbers 112 or 011 375 5911 are provided for rapid response should a fire get out of hand.
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