Day of the Vow, noun phrase

The 16th of December, a public holiday commemorating the vow made by a Voortrekker group to keep the day holy should they defeat the Zulu army at the Battle of Blood River on that day in 1838. Also attributive.
Note:
Formerly called Dingaan’s Day (sense 2), it was officially named Day of the Covenant in 1952 and renamed ‘Day of the Vow’ in 1980. Replaced by the Day of Reconciliation in 1995. See also Heroes’ Day sense 2.
1980 Act 72 in Govt Gaz. Vol.180 No.7060, 3Act to amend the Public Holidays Act, 1952...(d) by the substitution for the words ‘Day of the Covenant’ of the words ‘Day of the Vow’.
1983 Educating for Change (Nusas) (pamphlet) 5The difference between the official interpretation of SA’s history and the way it is interpreted and understood by many South Africans, is reflected in the different commemorations held on December 16. For the Afrikaner nation, it is the Day of the Vow, a commemoration of the final victory over black South Africans; in the townships, it is known as Heroes Day, and tribute is paid to those who have died or suffered through their commitment to overthrowing apartheid.
1986 S. Cooper in City Press 8 June 1We believe the people have the right to commemorate June 16 — more than the Afrikaners have the right to commemorate the Day of the Vow.
1992 Natal Witness 30 Dec. 9Holidays such as the Day of the Vow and Kruger Day should not have the status of ‘national’ holidays.
1994 [see Day of Reconciliation].
The 16th of December, a public holiday commemorating the vow made by a Voortrekker group to keep the day holy should they defeat the Zulu army at the Battle of Blood River on that day in 1838. Also attributive.
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Day of the Covenant, noun phrasen. phr.DC, nounn.1
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