There’s something about a South African braai that brings people together—laughter in the air, the smell of sizzling meat, and the kind of community spirit you just can’t fake.
And in the little town of Calitzdorp, that spirit is about to go big—world-record big.
Local braai enthusiast Gielie Basson is gearing up for what he calls his “final attempt” to break the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous braai—a fiery feat that will last 100 hours straight, if he pulls it off.
Going Beyond the Meat and Flames
Set for 24 to 28 September 2025, Basson’s mission is simple but ambitious: beat the current record of 80 hours, which was set by fellow South African Jan Greeff back in 2014.
This isn’t Gielie’s first rodeo, though. In 2023, he went beyond the 84-hour mark—but a technical mishap with timekeeping disqualified the attempt.
“I gave it my all in 2023, but Guinness said it didn’t count because of the timing error,” Basson explained. “So now, I’m going all in one last time.”
It’s Not Just About Breaking Records
But here’s the thing—Basson isn’t just chasing a title.
He’s using this event as a way to bring the community together and raise money for a good cause.
He’s inviting people across South Africa to braai along from wherever they are—whether it’s flipping boerewors in their backyard or selling hotdogs at a pop-up stand.
The idea? Donate the profits to his chosen charity, Gamka Oos Primary School, or pick a local cause you care about.
“Even if you’re not in Calitzdorp, you can still be part of this.
Just light your fire, raise some funds, and spread the spirit of ubuntu,” he said.
Putting Calitzdorp on the Map
Calitzdorp may be known for its wine farms and stunning views, but Gielie hopes this sizzling spectacle will shine a new spotlight on the town.
“Let’s show the world what we’re made of,” he said. “Come to Calitzdorp, support the record, or do your own thing at home—but let’s do it together.”
The event is expected to draw visitors, boost local tourism, and give Calitzdorp a moment in the global spotlight.
Everything by the Book This Time
To make sure nothing goes wrong this time around, Basson is working closely with Guinness World Records officials and event coordinators to tick every single box: precise timekeeping, food safety regulations, and mandatory rest periods.
Every second will be tracked, every fire carefully maintained.
After all, this is about more than just meat on the grill—it’s about making history the right way.
Community First, Records Second
Even if the record doesn’t fall, one thing’s for sure—the community spirit will be alive and well, with fires burning across the country in solidarity.
And for Gielie Basson, that’s what really matters.
“Records come and go,” he says. “But the way South Africans come together? That’s something truly special.”