Footage shows drivers performing doughnuts and drifting around the arena as stunt performers carried out acrobatic moves. Spectators cheered from behind barricades while music and dancing continued into the night.

Drivers were also seen heading into the pits to replace shredded tyres before returning to the arena.

"We are playing music, people are free, people are happy, that is freedom that was brought by the freedom fighters who shed their blood, and they are not with us today. They should have been enjoying, but they sacrificed for us to enjoy, so we thank them," said organiser Zakhele Mlilo.

Held at the ZKS Spinners Arena, the event has become a regular part of Bulawayo's Heroes' Day celebrations. Hundreds of spectators gathered to watch drivers from local and international car communities display their skills.

"This is one of the flagship events which has become synonymous with the Heroes Day celebrations, so this event is quite amazing with vehicles doing some spinning in, legal setup, so people actually try and find to attend this event and have a good time as a family in this long holiday," radio presenter Benkosi Maphosa said.

Zimbabwe gained independence from British colonial rule in 1980 following a prolonged liberation struggle.

National Heroes Day, observed on the second Monday of August, honours those who contributed to the country's independence.