National day

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Independence-related national day
Unification/revolution-related national day
Other reasons for national day
No official national day National Days map 5 July 2024.png
  Independence-related national day
  Unification/revolution-related national day
  Other reasons for national day
  No official national day

A national day is a day on which celebrations mark the statehood or nationhood of a state or its people. It may be the date of independence, of becoming a republic, of becoming a federation, or a significant date for a patron saint or a ruler (such as a birthday, accession, or removal).

Contents

The national day is often an official public holiday. Many countries have more than one national day. Denmark and the United Kingdom are the only countries without a national day. Denmark has what is not a public holiday but an unofficial celebration called Constitution Day. [1] National days emerged with the age of nationalism, with most appearing during the 19th and 20th centuries. [2]

National day may also be known as Independence Day, Liberation Day, or Republic Day, depending on the nation, and its history.

List of national days

Nations that are not broadly recognized sovereign states are shown in pink. Defunct states are highlighted in light grey. For nations that are dependent on, or part of, a sovereign state (such as federal states, autonomous regions, or colonies), the name of the sovereign state is shown in parentheses.

Days that are not fixed to the Gregorian calendar are sorted by their occurrences.

NationDateSignificanceDescription
Flag of Acadia.svg Acadia (Canada)15 August National Acadian Day Assumption Day was preferred over 24 June to remember that Acadians are descendants of France and a separate nation from the French Canadians.
Flag of the Taliban.svg Afghanistan 19 August Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom and its control over Afghan foreign affairs in 1919.
Flag of the African Union.svg African Union 25 May Africa Day Anniversary of the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963.
Flag of Aland.svg Åland (Finland)9 June Autonomy Day It commemorates the first meeting of Åland County Council in 1922.
Flag of Albania.svg Albania 28 November Independence Day It commemorates the raising of the Albanian flag in Vlorë to announce the Albanian Declaration of Independence in 1912.
Flag of Alderney.svg Alderney (British Islands)15 December Homecoming Day It commemorates the return of the Islanders after the end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II in 1945.
Flag of Algeria.svg Algeria 5 July Independence Day Independence from France in 1962.
1 November Revolution Day Beginning of the Algerian War in 1954.
Flag of American Samoa.svg American Samoa (United States)17 AprilFlag DayIt commemorates the date American Samoa became a US territory and first flew the US flag in 1900. As well is the date of adoption of the American Samoan flag in 1960.
Flag of Andalucia.svg Andalusia (Spain)28 February Andalusia Day It commemorates the date of the referendum on the Statute of Autonomy that established Andalusia as an autonomous community in 1980.
Flag of Andorra.svg Andorra 8 September Our Lady of Meritxell Day Feast day of Our Lady of Meritxell, patron saint of Andorra. As well is the date of the signing of the first Paréage of Andorra in 1278.
Flag of Angola.svg Angola 11 November Independence Day Independence from Portugal in 1975.
Flag of Anguilla.svg Anguilla (United Kingdom)30 May Anguilla Day It commemorates the beginning of the Anguillian Revolution in 1967.
Flag of Antigua and Barbuda.svg Antigua and Barbuda 1 November Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1981.
Flag of Aragon.svg Aragon (Spain)23 April Saint George's Day Feast day of Saint George, patron saint of Aragon and his Crown. An old legend holds that during the battle of Alcoraz in 1096, Saint George appeared in support of Aragonese army force.
Flag of Argentina.svg Argentina 25 May May Revolution Day It commemorates the May Revolution and creation of the First National Government in 1810.
9 July Independence Day Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Spain in 1816.
Flag of Armenia.svg Armenia 28 May Republic Day Independence from the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic and establishment of the First Republic of Armenia in 1918.
21 September Independence Day Independence from the Soviet Union recognised in 1991.
Flag of Aruba.svg Aruba (Kingdom of the Netherlands)18 MarchNational Anthem and Flag DayIt commemorates the adoption of the national flag of Aruba and the official anthem in 1976.
Flag of Ascension Island.svg Ascension (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June King's Official Birthday
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)8 AugustASEAN DayCommemorates the signing of the ASEAN Declaration in Bangkok on 8 August 1967 by five Foreign Ministers, marking the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Flag of Asturias.svg Asturias (Spain)8 September Our Lady of Covadonga Day Feast of Our Lady of Covadonga, patron saint of Asturias.
Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia 26 January Australia Day It commemorates the establishment of a British prison settlement at Port Jackson in New Holland by Captain Arthur Phillip in 1788.
Flag of Austria.svg Austria 26 October Austrian National Day It commemorates the enactment of the Austrian Declaration of Neutrality in 1955.
Flag of Azerbaijan.svg Azerbaijan 28 May Independence Day Independence from the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic in 1918.
Flag of the Azores.svg Azores (Portugal)Pentecost Monday Azores Day It commemorates the establishment of political autonomy within the Portuguese laws, following the Carnation Revolution, in 1976.
Flag of the Bahamas.svg Bahamas 10 July Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1973.
Flag of Bahrain.svg Bahrain 16 DecemberNational DayIt commemorates the coronation of Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the first Emir of Bahrain, in 1961.
Flag of the Balearic Islands.svg Balearic Islands (Spain)1 March Day of the Balearic Islands It commemorates the date that the Statute of Autonomy establishing the Balearic Islands as an autonomous community became effective in 1983.
Flag of Bangladesh.svg Bangladesh 26 March Independence Day Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Pakistan in 1971.
16 December Victory Day It commemorates the Surrender of Pakistan, ending the Bangladesh Liberation War, in 1971.
Flag of Barbados.svg Barbados 30 November Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. As well is the anniversary of the formal proclamation of Barbados as a Republic within the Commonwealth in 2021.
Flag of the Basque Country.svg Basque Country (Spain)Easter Sunday (unofficial) Aberri Eguna (Fatherland Day)No official National Day. Fatherland Day is the unofficial Basque national holiday, associated with Basque nationalism. From 2011 to 2013 the official national day was on 25 October.
Flag of Belarus.svg Belarus 3 July Independence Day It commemorates the liberation of Minsk from German occupation by Soviet troops in 1944.
Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium 21 July National Day It commemorates when Leopold of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld takes the oath as the first King of the Belgians in 1831.
Flag of Belize.svg Belize 21 September Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1981.
Flag of Benin.svg Benin 1 August Independence Day Independence from France in 1960.
Flag of Bermuda.svg Bermuda (United Kingdom)4th Friday in May Bermuda Day It commemorates the islands' heritage and culture. Previously was known as Queen Victoria's birthday and celebrated on 24 May.
Flag of Bhutan.svg Bhutan 17 December National Day It commemorates when Ugyen Wangchuck was elected and enthroned as the first hereditary King of Bhutan in 1907.
Flag of Bolivia.svg Bolivia 6 August Independence Day Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Spain in 1825.
Flag of Botswana.svg Botswana 30 September Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1966.
Flag of Brazil.svg Brazil 7 September Independence Day Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Portugal in 1822.
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg British Empire 24 May Empire Day Observed from 1890s to 1957. In 1958, the celebration was renamed from Empire Day to Commonwealth Day.
Flag of the British Virgin Islands.svg British Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)1 July Virgin Islands Day It commemorates the day on which BVI gained self-governing status within British control in 1967. Previously was known as Colony Day and later as Territory Day.
Flag of Brunei.svg Brunei 23 February National Day It commemorates the independence from the United Kingdom in 1984, which actually occurred on 1 January.
Flag of the Brussels-Capital Region.svg Brussels-Capital Region (Belgium)8 May Iris Day  [ fr; nl ]It commemorates the blooming season of the iris (also called fleur de Lys), which is the symbol of the Region. Also commemorates the victory day over the Nazis in World War II and a former feast day of Saint Michael, patron saint of the Region.
Flag of Bulgaria.svg Bulgaria 3 March Liberation Day It commemorates the signing of the Treaty of San Stefano, that provided autonomy within Ottoman Empire in 1878.
Flag of Burkina Faso.svg Burkina Faso 11 December Independence Day It commemorates the establishment of a self-governing state within the French Community in 1958.
Flag of Burundi.svg Burundi 1 July Independence Day Independence from Belgium in 1962.
Flag of Cambodia.svg Cambodia 9 November Independence Day Independence from France in 1953.
Flag of Cameroon.svg Cameroon 20 May National Day It commemorates the creation of a unitary state in 1972.
Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg Canada 1 July Canada Day It commemorates the creation of Canadian Confederation, the process by Province of Canada, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were united into one federation called the Dominion of Canada in 1867.
Flag of the Canary Islands.svg Canary Islands (Spain)30 May Day of the Canary Islands It commemorates the anniversary of the first session of the Parliament of the Canary Islands in 1983.
Flag of Cantabria.svg Cantabria (Spain)28 July (unofficial) Cantabria Institutions Day No official Regional Day. Cantabria Institutions Day commemorates the establishment of the province in 1778.
Bandera Castilla-La Mancha.svg Castilla–La Mancha (Spain)31 MayCastilla–La Mancha DayIt commemorates the anniversary of the first session of the Cortes of Castilla–La Mancha in 1983.
Flag of Castile and Leon.svg Castilla y León (Spain)23 April Castile and León Day It commemorates the anniversary of the Battle of Villalar and the Revolt of the Comuneros in 1521.
Flag of Catalonia.svg Catalonia (Spain)11 September National Day It commemorates the fall of Barcelona during the War of the Spanish Succession in 1714.
Flag of Cape Verde.svg Cape Verde 5 July Independence Day Independence from Portugal in 1975.
Flag of the Cayman Islands.svg Cayman Islands (United Kingdom)1st Monday in JulyConstitution DayIt commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of the West Indies Federation [3] in 1959.
Flag of the Central African Republic.svg Central African Republic 1 DecemberNational DayIt commemorates the anniversary of becoming an autonomous territory within the French Community in 1958.
Flag Ceuta.svg Ceuta (Spain)2 September Ceuta Day It commemorates when Pedro de Meneses, 1st Count of Vila Real becomes the first Governor of Ceuta after the Conquest of Ceuta in 1415.
Flag of Chad.svg Chad 11 August Independence Day Independence from France in 1960.
Flag of Chile.svg Chile 18 September Independence Day It commemorates when the first Government Junta was created in 1810.
Flag of the People's Republic of China.svg China, People's Republic of 1 October National Day It commemorates the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.
Flag of the Republic of China.svg China, Republic of (Taiwan)1 January Founding Day It commemorates the establishment of the Provisional Government in 1912.
10 October National Day It commemorates the Wuchang Uprising that led to abolishment of the monarchy and founding of the Republic in China in 1911.
Flag of Colombia.svg Colombia 20 July Independence Day Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence from Spain in 1810.
Commonwealth Flag 2013.svg Commonwealth of Nations 2nd Monday in March Commonwealth Day Until 1958 was known as Empire Day.
Flag of the Comoros.svg Comoros 6 JulyNational DayIndependence from France in 1975.
Flag of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.svg Democratic Republic of the Congo 30 June Independence Day Independence from Belgium in 1960.
Flag of the Republic of the Congo.svg Republic of the Congo 15 AugustNational DayIndependence from France in 1960.
Flag of the Cook Islands.svg Cook Islands 4 August Constitution Day It commemorates the self-government in free association with New Zealand in 1965.
Flag of Costa Rica.svg Costa Rica 15 September Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821.
Flag of Croatia.svg Croatia 30 May National Day It commemorates when the multi-party Parliament was constituted in 1990.
Flag of Cuba.svg Cuba 1 January Liberation Day It commemorates the Cuban Revolution and the overthrow of the Batista regime in 1959.
10 October Independence Day Independence from the Spanish Empire in 1868.
Flag of Curacao.svg Curaçao (Kingdom of the Netherlands)2 JulyNational Anthem and Flag DayIt commemorates when the first island council was elected and instituted in 1954.
Flag of Cyprus.svg Cyprus 1 October Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1960.
Flag of the Czech Republic.svg Czech Republic 28 OctoberIndependent Czechoslovak State DayIndependence from Austria-Hungary and creation of Czechoslovakia in 1918.
Flag of Cote d'Ivoire.svg Côte d'Ivoire 7 August Independence Day Independence from France in 1960.
Flag of Denmark.svg Denmark 5 June (unofficial) Constitution Day Constitution Day is the unofficial national holiday of Denmark, which has no official National Day. It commemorates the signing as both the first Constitution in 1849 and the current constitution in 1953.
Flag of Djibouti.svg Djibouti 27 June Independence Day Independence from France in 1977.
Flag of Dominica.svg Dominica 3 November Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1978. As well is the date when the island was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
Flag of the Dominican Republic.svg Dominican Republic 27 February Independence Day Independence from Haiti in 1844.
Flag of Ecuador.svg Ecuador 10 August Independence Day Proclamation of independence from Spain in 1809
Flag of Egypt.svg Egypt 23 July Revolution Day Commemorating the revolution of 1952
Flag of El Salvador.svg El Salvador 15 September Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821
Flag of England.svg England (United Kingdom)23 April Saint George's Day Feast day of Saint George, patron saint of England
Flag of Equatorial Guinea.svg Equatorial Guinea 12 October Independence Day Independence from Spain in 1968
Flag of Eritrea.svg Eritrea 24 May Independence Day Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF) fighters enter Asmara in 1991 and Eritrea becomes a de facto independent state; United Nations recognizes Eritrea's independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a UN-supervised referendum on nationhood.
Flag of Estonia.svg Estonia 24 February Independence Day Anniversary of the Republic of Estonia on the date of its declaration of independence from the Russian and German Empires in 1918
Flag of Eswatini.svg Eswatini 6 September Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1968
Flag of Ethiopia.svg Ethiopia 28 May Downfall of the Derg Day The Derg regime is defeated in 1991
Flag of Europe.svg European Union 9 May Europe Day Commemorating the Schuman Declaration of 1950
Flag of Extremadura with COA.svg Extremadura (Spain)8 September Our Lady of Guadalupe DayFeast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron saint of Extremadura
Flag of the Falkland Islands.svg Falkland Islands (United Kingdom)14 June Liberation Day Liberation from Argentinean occupation at the end of the Falklands War in 1982
Flag of the Faroe Islands.svg Faroe Islands (Denmark)29 July Ólavsøka Saint Olaf's death at the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030: opening of the Løgting (parliament) session
Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina)1 March Independence Day Referendum on independence from Yugoslavia in 1992
Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina)25 November Statehood Day Formation of the State Anti-fascist Council for the National Liberation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1943
Flag of Fiji.svg Fiji 10 October Fiji Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1970
Flag of Finland.svg Finland 6 December Independence Day Declaration of independence from Russia in 1917
Flag of Flanders.svg Flanders (Belgium)11 July Feestdag van de Vlaamse Gemeenschap Battle of the Golden Spurs on 11 July 1302.
Flag of Florida.svg Florida (United States)2 April Pascua Florida Day or week (as declared by the Governor) celebrating the founding of Florida by Juan Ponce de León on 2 April 1513.
Flag of France.svg France 14 July Bastille Day Bastille Day (known as la Fête Nationale in France), commemorating the storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789 [4]
Flag of Wallonia.svg French Community (Belgium)27 September French Community Holiday
Flag of France.svg French Guiana (France)10 June Abolition of Slavery Day
Flag of French Polynesia.svg French Polynesia (France)29 June Internal Autonomy Day
Flag of Gabon.svg Gabon 17 August Independence Day Independence from France in 1960
Flag of Galicia.svg Galicia (Spain)25 July National Day Commemorates the Feast of Saint James, patron saint of Galicia
Flag of The Gambia.svg Gambia, The 18 February Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1965
Flag of Georgia.svg Georgia 26 MayDay of First RepublicDeclaration of independence from Russia in 1918
Flag of the German Empire.svg German Empire 18 JanuaryProclamation of the German Empire on 18 January 1871 in the Palace of Versailles.
Flag of East Germany.svg East Germany 7 October Republic Day Declaration of the German Democratic Republic in 1949
Flag of the German Community in Belgium.svg German-speaking Community (Belgium)15 November Day of the German-speaking Community
Flag of Germany.svg Germany 3 October German Unity Day Unification of West Germany and East Germany in 1990
Flag of Ghana.svg Ghana 6 March Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1957
Flag of Gibraltar.svg Gibraltar (United Kingdom)10 September National Day People of Gibraltar vote to reject Spanish sovereignty or association in 1967
Flag of Greece.svg Greece 25 March Independence Day Start of the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821
28 October Ohi Day Refusal to the surrender the country on the Italian troops, and honour at the dead during the Greco-Italian War and the Greek Resistance against the Axis in 1940–1944
Flag of Greenland.svg Greenland (Denmark)21 June Greenland National Day (Longest Day of the Year) Greenland National Day was introduced in 1983 as one of the Home Rule's traditions and is thus one of several expressions of national identity
Flag of Grenada.svg Grenada 7 February Independence Day Independence from United Kingdom in 1974
Flag of France.svg Guadeloupe (France)27 September Abolition of Slavery Day
Flag of Guam.svg Guam (United States)21 July Liberation Day American landing on Guam 1944, the beginning of the Battle of Guam
Flag of Guatemala.svg Guatemala 15 September Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821
Flag of Guernsey.svg Guernsey (British Islands)9 May Liberation Day The end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands in 1945
Flag of Guinea.svg Guinea 2 October Independence Day Independence from France in 1958
Flag of Guinea-Bissau.svg Guinea-Bissau 24 September Independence Day Declaration of independence from Portugal in 1973
Flag of Guyana.svg Guyana 23 February Mashramani Declaration of the Republic in 1970
26 MayIndependence DayDeclaration of independence from the United Kingdom in 1966
Flag of Haiti.svg Haiti 1 January Independence Day Declaration of independence from France in 1804
Flag of Herm.svg Herm (British Islands)9 May Liberation Day The end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands in 1945
Flag of Honduras (2022-).svg Honduras 15 September Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821
Flag of Hong Kong.svg Hong Kong (China)1 July Establishment Day Transfer of sovereignty to the PRC in 1997
1 October National Day of the PRC Proclamation of the People's Republic of China in 1949
Flag of Hungary.svg Hungary 15 March1848 Revolution Memorial DayCommemorating the 1848 Revolution
20 August Saint Stephen's Day Feast day of Saint Stephen, patron saint of Hungary and first King of Hungary, crowned in 1000 and canonized in 1083
23 October1956 Revolution Memorial DayCommemorating the 1956 Revolution
Flag of Iceland.svg Iceland 17 June National Day Founding of the Republic and dissolution of the personal union with Denmark in 1944
Flag of India.svg India 26 January Republic Day Adoption of the Constitution of India [5] in 1950
15 August Independence Day Independence from the British Empire in 1947
2 October Gandhi Jayanti Birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Nation) in 1869
Flag of Indonesia.svg Indonesia 17 August Independence Day Proclamation of Independence (Hari Proklamasi Kemerdekaan R.I.) from the kingdom of the Netherlands in 1945
Flag of Iran.svg Iran 11 FebruaryIslamic Revolution's Victory Day (Fajr decade)Victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979
1 April Iranian Islamic Republic Day [6]
Flag of Iraq.svg Iraq 3 OctoberIndependence DayIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1932
Flag of Ireland.svg Ireland 17 March Saint Patrick's Day Feast day of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland
Flag of the Isle of Man.svg Isle of Man (British Islands)5 July Tynwald Day Annual festive outdoor meeting of the Tynwald (parliament)
Flag of Israel.svg Israel 5 Iyar Independence Day Proclamation of independence from the British Mandate of Palestine in 1948
(date varies according to Jewish calendar on 5 Iyar.)
Flag of Italy.svg Italy 2 June Republic Day It is the Italian National Day and Republic Day, which is celebrated on 2 June each year, with the main celebration taking place in Rome. It is one of the national symbols of Italy. The day commemorates the 1946 Italian institutional referendum held by universal suffrage, in which the Italian people were called to the polls to decide on the form of government following the Second World War and the fall of Fascism. The ceremony of the event, organized in Rome, includes the deposition of a laurel wreath as a tribute to the Italian Unknown Soldier at the Altare della Patria by the President of the Italian Republic and a military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome.
Flag of Jamaica.svg Jamaica 6 August Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1962
Flag of Japan.svg Japan 11 February National Foundation Day Jimmu, the first emperor, is crowned in 660 BC
Flag of Jersey.svg Jersey (British Islands)9 May Liberation Day The end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands in 1945
Flag of Jordan.svg Jordan 25 May Independence Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1946
Flag of Kazakhstan.svg Kazakhstan 16 December Independence Day Independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of Kenya.svg Kenya 12 December Jamhuri Day Independence from the United Kingdom in 1963; made a republic in 1964
Flag of Kiribati.svg Kiribati 12 JulyIndependence DayIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1979 [7]
Flag of Kosovo.svg Kosovo (Disputed)17 February Independence Day Unilateral declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008
Flag of Kurdistan.svg Kurdistan (Iraq)21 March Nowruz, Persian New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox
Flag of Kuwait.svg Kuwait 25 FebruaryNational Day, anniversary of the 1950 coronation of Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah, who won Kuwait's independence from the British Empire eleven years later
Flag of Kyrgyzstan.svg Kyrgyzstan 31 AugustIndependence DayIndependence Day, declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of Laos.svg Laos 2 DecemberNational Day, declaration of the People's Republic in 1975
Flag of La Rioja (with coat of arms).svg La Rioja (Spain)9 JuneAnniversary of the approval of La Rioja's Statute of Autonomy establishing it as an autonomous community
Flag of Latvia.svg Latvia 18 November Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia, independence from the Russian Empire in 1918
Flag of Lebanon.svg Lebanon 22 November Independence Day Independence from France in 1943
Flag of Lesotho.svg Lesotho 4 OctoberIndependence DayIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1966
Flag of Liberia.svg Liberia 26 JulyProclamation of the Republic: independence from the United States in 1847
Flag of Libya.svg Libya 24 DecemberIndependence DayAnniversary of Libyan independence in 1951
Flag of Liechtenstein.svg Liechtenstein 15 August Liechtenstein National Day, Feast of the Assumption and birth of Prince Franz Joseph II in 1906
Flag of Lithuania.svg Lithuania 16 February Lithuanian State Reestablishment Day, declaration of independence from the Russian and German Empires in 1918
Flag of Lombardy.svg Lombardy (Italy)29 May Lombard League defeats the imperial army of Frederick Barbarossa in the Battle of Legnano
Flag of Luxembourg.svg Luxembourg 23 June Grand Duke's Official Birthday
Flag of Macau.svg Macau (China)1 October National Day of the People's Republic of China (Proclamation of the People's Republic of China in 1949)
20 December Transfer of sovereignty to the PRC in 1999
Flag of Madagascar.svg Madagascar 26 JuneIndependence DayIndependence from France in 1960
Flag of Madeira.svg Madeira (Portugal)1 July Madeira Day, day of autonomy within Portugal in 1976
Flag of the Community of Madrid.svg Madrid (Spain)2 May Dos de Mayo Uprising, part of the Peninsular War, a civilian rebellion against the French occupation of the city
Flag of Malawi.svg Malawi 6 JulyIndependence DayIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1964; declaration of the Republic in 1966
Flag of Malaysia.svg Malaysia 31 August Hari Kebangsaan, independence from the United Kingdom (as Malaya) in 1957. Also known as Hari Kebangsaan (National Day) in Malay.
16 September Malaysia Day, formation of Malaysia by uniting Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore into a single country in 1963. Proposed to be the second national day after Hari Merdeka.
Flag of Maldives.svg Maldives 1 Rabi' al-Awwal Independence DayIndependence from the Portuguese Empire in c.1573 (date varies according to the Islamic Calendar)
Flag of Mali.svg Mali 22 SeptemberIndependence DayIndependence from the Mali Federation in 1960
Flag of Malta.svg Malta 31 MarchFreedom Day Freedom Day, withdrawal of the last British troops from Malta in 1979
7 JuneSette Giugno Sette Giugno, bread riot of 1919 in which 4 Maltese men died
8 SeptemberVictory Day Victory Day, celebrating the victory of the Knights of St. John over the Ottoman Empire in the Great Siege of Malta in 1565, the end of the French occupation in 1800, and the surrender of Italy to the Allies in 1943
21 SeptemberIndependence Day Independence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1964
13 DecemberRepublic Day Republic Day, adoption of the republican constitution of 1974
Flag of the Marshall Islands.svg Marshall Islands 1 May Constitution Day, adoption of the Compact of Free Association in 1979
Flag-of-Martinique.svg Martinique (France)22 May Abolition of slavery day
Flag of Mauritania.svg Mauritania 28 NovemberIndependence from France in 1960
Flag of Mauritius.svg Mauritius 12 MarchIndependence Day Independence Day - Independence from the United Kingdom in 1968; formation of the Republic in 1992
Flag of France.svg Mayotte (France)27 April Abolition of slavery day
Flag of Melilla.svg Melilla (Spain)17 SeptemberAnniversary of the 1497 Conquest of Melilla by the Duke of Medina Sidonia
Flag of Mexico.svg Mexico 16 September Independence Day Grito de Dolores, beginning of the War of Independence from Spain in 1810
Flag of the Federated States of Micronesia.svg Micronesia 3 NovemberIndependence DayIndependence from the US-administered UN Trusteeship in 1979
Bandeira de Minas Gerais.svg Minas Gerais (Brazil)21 AprilHanging of Tiradentes in 1792
16 JulyElevation of the village of Mariana to the status of city.
Flag of Moldova.svg Moldova 27 August Independence Day, declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of Monaco.svg Monaco 19 NovemberAccession of Prince Albert II to the throne in 2005
Flag of Mongolia.svg Mongolia 26 NovemberRepublic Day, proclamation of the Mongolian People's Republic in 1924
29 DecemberIndependence Day Independence Day, this day commemorates the independence from China in 1911.
Flag of Montenegro.svg Montenegro 21 MayIndependence from Serbia and Montenegro in 2006
13 Julyrecognised as independent at the Congress of Berlin in 1878
Flag of Montserrat.svg Montserrat (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June King's Official Birthday
Flag of Morocco.svg Morocco 18 NovemberAccession of Muhammad V to the throne in 1927
Flag of Mozambique.svg Mozambique 25 JuneIndependence DayIndependence from Portugal in 1975
Flag of the Region of Murcia.svg Murcia (Spain)9 JuneAnniversary of the approval of the Region of Murcia's Statute of Autonomy establishing it as an autonomous community
Flag of Myanmar.svg Myanmar 10th day of Tazaungmon Commemorates the anniversary of the first university student strike at Rangoon University in 1920

Note: Not to be confused with Independence Day (Myanmar)

Flag of Namibia.svg Namibia 21 MarchIndependence from South Africa in 1990
Flag of Nauru.svg Nauru 31 JanuaryIndependence from the Australia, NZ, and UK-administered UN trusteeship 1968
Bandera de Navarra.svg Navarre (Spain)3 DecemberFeast of Saint Francis Xavier, patron saint of Navarre
Flag of Nepal.svg   Nepal 19 SeptemberConstitution Day, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution in 2015
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Kingdom of the Netherlands 27 April King's Day, King Willem-Alexander's birthday in 1967
5 May Liberation Day, end of German occupation in 1945
Flags of New Caledonia.svg New Caledonia (France)24 SeptemberCitizenship DayAnnexation to France in 1853
Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand 6 February Waitangi Day Signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840
Flag of Nicaragua.svg Nicaragua 15 September Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821
Flag of Niger.svg Niger 18 December Republic Day, made an autonomous state within the French Community in 1958
Flag of Nigeria.svg Nigeria 1 October Independence from the United Kingdom in 1960
Flag of Niue.svg Niue 19 OctoberSelf-government in free association with New Zealand in 1974
Flag of Norfolk Island.svg Norfolk Island (Australia)8 JuneBeginning of permanent settlement of the island by migrants from the Pitcairn Islands in 1856
Flag of North Korea.svg North Korea 15 AugustLiberation from Japanese rule in 1945 (Chogukhaebangŭi nal)
9 September Day of the Foundation of the Republic in 1948 [8]
10 October Party Foundation Day in 1945
Flag of North Macedonia.svg North Macedonia 2 August Republic Day, proclamation of statehood in 1944 and proclamation of Kruševo Republic in 1903 during the Ilinden Uprising
8 SeptemberIndependence Day (Den na nezavisnosta), declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991
Ulster Banner.svg Northern Ireland (United Kingdom)17 March Saint Patrick's Day Feast day of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland; a public holiday sometimes associated with Irish nationalism
12 July The Twelfth (Orangemens' Day) Commemorates the Battle of the Boyne in 1690; a public holiday associated with Ulster unionism
Flag of the Northern Mariana Islands.svg Northern Mariana Islands (United States)8 JanuaryCommonwealth Day, the constitutional government takes office in 1978
Flag of Norway.svg Norway 17 May Constitution Day, the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in Eidsvoll 1814
Flag of Oman.svg Oman 20 November National Day of Oman, Day of Al Busaid family ruling Oman in 1744
Flag of Pakistan.svg Pakistan 23 March Pakistan Day, the Pakistan Resolution passed in Lahore in 1940. Pakistan became a Republic in 1956 with the 1956 Constitution of Pakistan.
14 August Independence Day, independence from the British Empire in 1947
Flag of Palau.svg Palau 9 July Constitution Day, adoption of the Constitution in 1980
1 OctoberIndependence Day Independence Day, full independence in 1994
Flag of Palestine.svg Palestine 15 November Independence Day Declaration of independence in 1988
Flag of Panama.svg Panama 3 November Separation Day Independence from Colombia in 1903
28 November Independence Day Independence from the Kingdom of Spain in 1821
Flag of Papua New Guinea.svg Papua New Guinea 16 SeptemberIndependence from Australia in 1975
Flag of Paraguay.svg Paraguay 14 May Independence Day Declaration of independence from Spain in 1811
Flag of Peru.svg Peru 28 July Independence Day Declaration of independence from Spain in 1821
Flag of the Philippines.svg Philippines 12 June Independence Day Commemorates the declaration of independence from Spain in 1898, officially known as Araw ng Kasarinlan but more commonly called as Araw ng Kalayaan.
Flag of the Pitcairn Islands.svg Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June King's Official Birthday
Flag of Poland.svg Poland 3 May 3 May Constitution Day, celebrates the declaration of the Constitution of 3 May 1791, first constitution of its kind in Europe
11 NovemberŚwięto Niepodległości (Independence Day), restoration of independence from Austria-Hungary, Germany, and Russia in 1918
Flag of Portugal (official).svg Portugal 10 June Portugal Day Officially the Day of Portugal, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities, commemorates the death of national poet Luís de Camões in 1580
Flag of Puerto Rico.svg Puerto Rico (United States)25 July Constitution Day Commemorates the establishment of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in 1952; formerly Invasion Day, day of the American invasion in 1898
23 September Grito de Lares Grito de Lares, also known as Independence Day, celebrates the first revolt for independence from the Spanish Empire in 1868
Flag of Qatar.svg Qatar 18 December Qatar National Day, the assumption of power by Emir Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani in 1878
Flag of Quebec.svg Québec (Canada)24 June Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, feast day of John the Baptist, the patron saint of French Canadians
Bandeira do Rio Grande do Sul.svg Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil)20 SeptemberExpulsion of the Brazilian Army from Porto Alegre at the Farroupilha Revolution, followed by a Declaration of Independence on 1836.
Flag of Romania.svg Romania 1 December Great Union Day, unification with Transylvania and achievement of the Great Union in 1918
Flag of Russia.svg Russia 12 June Russia Day, Declaration of State Sovereignty in 1990
4 November Unity Day, celebrates the end of Time of Troubles
Flag of Rwanda.svg Rwanda 1 JulyIndependence from Belgium in 1962
Flag of France.svg Réunion (France)20 December Abolition of slavery day
Flag of Saba.svg Saba (Kingdom of the Netherlands)1st Friday in DecemberSaba Day celebrates, on the first Friday in December, the adoption of the flag of Saba in December 1985
Flag of Sabah.svg Sabah (Malaysia)31 August Sabah Day, is celebrated to commemorate Sabah's independence from United Kingdom before joining Malaysia along with Sarawak and Singapore on 16 September 1963. It has since been celebrated since 2023.
Flag of Saint Helena.svg Saint Helena (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June King's Official Birthday
Flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis.svg Saint Kitts and Nevis 19 SeptemberIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1983
Flag of Saint Lucia.svg Saint Lucia 22 FebruaryIndependence DayIndependence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1979
Flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.svg Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 27 OctoberIndependence DayIndependence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1979
Flag of Samoa.svg Samoa 1 JuneIndependence Day Independence Day, independence from New Zealand in 1962
Flag of San Marino.svg San Marino 3 SeptemberFoundation of the city by Marinus in year 301 (traditional date); also is the St. Marinus Day.
Flag of Sardinia.svg Sardinia (Italy)28 AprilSardinian revolution and expulsion of Piedmontese Viceroy and Sardinian-Piedmontese officials from Cagliari, capital and largest city of Sardinia
Bandeira do estado de Sao Paulo.svg São Paulo (Brazil)9 July Constitutionalist Revolt against Vargas Regime in 1932
Flag of Sarawak.svg Sarawak (Malaysia)22 July Sarawak Independence Day, independence from United Kingdom before joining Malaysia along with Sabah and Singapore on 16 September.
Flag of Sark.svg Sark (British Islands)10 MayLiberation Day, the end of the German occupation of the Channel Islands in 1945
Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg Saudi Arabia 23 September Saudi National Day Renaming of the Kingdom of Nejd and Hejaz to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932
Flag of Scotland.svg Scotland (United Kingdom)30 November Saint Andrew's Day Feast day of Saint Andrew, patron saint of Scotland
Flag of Senegal.svg Senegal 4 AprilIndependence from France in 1960
Flag of Serbia.svg Serbia 15 February National Day, start of the Serbian Revolution against Ottoman Empire in 1804; Constitution Day, adoption of the first Constitution in 1835 [9]
Flag of Seychelles.svg Seychelles 18 JuneConstitution Day, adoption of a multi-party democratic constitution in 1993.
29 JuneNational Day, marks the date when Seychelles gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.
Flag of Sierra Leone.svg Sierra Leone 27 AprilRepublic Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1961
Flag of Singapore.svg Singapore 9 August National Day, independence from Malaysia in 1965
Flag of Sint Maarten.svg Sint Maarten (Kingdom of the Netherlands)11 NovemberSint Maarten's Day [10]
Flag of Slovakia.svg Slovakia 29 August Slovak National Uprising Anniversary, this day commemorates when Slovakia in 1944 rose up against Nazi Germany
Flag of Slovenia.svg Slovenia 25 June Statehood Day, declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991
Flag of the Solomon Islands.svg Solomon Islands 7 JulyIndependence DayIndependence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1978
Flag of Somalia.svg Somalia 1 JulyIndependence DayIndependence from Italy and unification with Somaliland in 1960
Flag of Somaliland.svg Somaliland (Disputed)18 MayDeclaration of independence from Somalia in 1991
26 JuneIndependence DayIndependence of the State of Somaliland from the United Kingdom in 1960
Flag of South Africa.svg South Africa 27 April Freedom Day, first democratic general election in 1994
Flag of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.svg South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June Liberation from Argentina at the end of the Falklands War in 1982 and King's Official Birthday
Flag of South Korea.svg South Korea 1 March Declaration of independence from the Empire of Japan in 1919
15 AugustLiberation from Japanese rule in 1945 (Gwangbokjeol); declaration of the Republic in 1948
3 October Gaecheonjeol, ancient Korea founded in 2333 BC
Flag of South Sudan.svg South Sudan 9 JulyIndependence Day, independence from Sudan in 2011
Flag of South Vietnam.svg South Vietnam 26 October 1955 South Vietnam referendum created First Republic of Vietnam replacing State of Vietnam
1 November 1963 South Vietnam coup d'état created Second Republic of Vietnam replacing First Republic of Vietnam
Flag of the Soviet Union.svg Soviet Union 7 November October Revolution Day, commemorating the Great October Socialist Revolution in 1917
Flag of Spain.svg Spain 12 October National Day Commemorates Christopher Columbus' discovery of the Americas in 1492
Flag of Sri Lanka.svg Sri Lanka 4 February Independence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1948 under the name of Ceylon
Flag of the Republika Srpska.svg Republika Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina)9 JanuaryProclamation of the Republic, separate from Bosnia and Herzegovina and part of Yugoslavia, in 1992
Flag of Sudan.svg Sudan 1 JanuaryIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1956
Flag of Suriname.svg Suriname 25 NovemberIndependence Day, independence from the Netherlands in 1975
Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden 6 June National Day: election of Gustav Vasa as King of Sweden in 1523; adoption of the constitutions of 1809 and 1974
Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg  Switzerland 1 August National Day, alliance between Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden against the Holy Roman Empire in 1291
Flag of the Syrian revolution.svg Syria 17 April Evacuation Day, end of French colonial rule in 1946
Flag of Sao Tome and Principe.svg São Tomé and Príncipe 12 JulyIndependence from Portugal in 1975
Flag of Tajikistan.svg Tajikistan 9 SeptemberIndependence Day, declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of Tanzania.svg Tanzania 9 DecemberIndependence Day, independence from British rule in 1961
Flag of Tatarstan.svg Tatarstan (Russia)30 AugustDeclaration of independence from the RSFSR in 1990
Flag of Thailand.svg Thailand 5 December National Day Birthday of Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1927. Commonly celebrated as National Day and Father's Day.
Flag of East Timor.svg Timor-Leste 20 May Independence Day Independence from Indonesia in 2002
Flag of Togo (3-2).svg Togo 27 AprilIndependence from the French-administered UN trusteeship in 1960
Flag of Tonga.svg Tonga 4 June Emancipation Day abolition of serfdom 1862; independence from the United Kingdom in 1970
4 NovemberPromulgation of the constitution in 1875
Flag of Transnistria (state).svg Transnistria 2 SeptemberIndependence Day, declaration of independence from Moldova in 1990
Flag of Trinidad and Tobago.svg Trinidad and Tobago 31 AugustIndependence Day, independence from the United Kingdom in 1962
Flag of Tristan da Cunha.svg Tristan da Cunha (United Kingdom)3rd Saturday in June King's Official Birthday
Flag of Tunisia.svg Tunisia 20 MarchDeclaration of independence from France in 1956
Flag of Turkey.svg Turkey 29 October Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı), adoption of a republican constitution in 1923
Flag of Turkmenistan.svg Turkmenistan 27 September Independence Day, declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of the Turks and Caicos Islands.svg Turks and Caicos Islands (United Kingdom)30 AugustConstitution Day, adoption of a constitution in 1976
Flag of Tuvalu.svg Tuvalu 1 OctoberIndependence Day, independence from the Gilbert Islands (Kiribati) in 1975 and from the United Kingdom in 1978
Flag of Uganda.svg Uganda 9 OctoberIndependence from the United Kingdom in 1962
Flag of Ukraine.svg Ukraine 15 July Statehood Day, commemoration of the Christianization of Kievan Rus'
24 AugustIndependence from the Soviet Union in 1991. See Independence Day of Ukraine
Flag of the United Arab Emirates.svg United Arab Emirates 2 December National Day, formation of the federation of seven emirates on independence from the United Kingdom in 1971
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United Kingdom 3rd Saturday in June (unofficial) King's Official Birthday Does not have a recognized national day (see proposed British National Day), although the King's Official Birthday (King Charles III's was announced as being the third Saturday in June) is sometimes considered as such, for example, in British diplomatic institutions overseas
Flag of the United Nations.svg United Nations 24 October United Nations Day An annual commemorative day, reflecting the official creation of the United Nations on 24 October 1945
Flag of the United States.svg United States 4 July Independence Day First 13 states declare independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1776.
Flag of the United States Virgin Islands.svg United States Virgin Islands (United States)31 March Transfer Day, transfer of the islands from Denmark to the United States in 1917
Flag of Uruguay.svg Uruguay 25 August Independence Day Declaration of independence from Brazil in 1825
Flag of Uzbekistan.svg Uzbekistan 1 September Independence Day, declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991
Flag of the Valencian Community (2x3).svg Valencian Community (Spain)9 OctoberAnniversary of the creation of the Kingdom of Valencia in 1238
Flag of Vanuatu.svg Vanuatu 30 JulyIndependence Day, independence from the United Kingdom and France in 1980
Flag of Vatican City (2023-present).svg Vatican City 11 FebruaryLateran Treaty DayFoundation of Vatican City, signing of the Lateran Treaty in 1929
Flag of Venezuela.svg Venezuela 5 July Independence Day Declaration of independence from Spain in 1811
Flag of Vietnam.svg Vietnam 2 September National Day National Day, declaration of independence from France and Japan in 1945
Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Wales (United Kingdom)1 March Saint David's Day Feast day of Saint David, patron saint of Wales
Flag of Wallonia.svg Wallonia (Belgium)3rd Sunday of September Day of the Walloon Region
Flag of Yemen.svg Yemen 22 May Unity Day, North and South Yemen are unified as the Republic of Yemen in 1990
Flag of Yugoslavia (1946-1992).svg Yugoslavia 29 November Day of the Republic, celebrating the anniversary of the second session of AVNOJ, paving way for the establishment of the second Yugoslav state
Flag of Zambia.svg Zambia 24 OctoberIndependence Day, declaration of independence from the United Kingdom in 1964
Flag of Zimbabwe.svg Zimbabwe 18 AprilGranting of independence by the United Kingdom in 1980; it had previously declared independence as Rhodesia on 11 November 1965

See also

References

  1. Fisher, Max (26 February 2013). "A surprising map of the world's national holidays (only two countries have no national day)". The Washington Post . Archived from the original on 31 March 2023. Retrieved 18 January 2021.
  2. Elgenius, Gabriella (2019). "National Days in Nation Building: Similarities and differences". Symbols of nations and nationalism : celebrating nationhood. Basingstoke, Hampshire. pp. 94–132. ISBN   9781349590476.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  3. "Constitution Day in Cayman Islands in 2022". Office Holidays. Archived from the original on 15 July 2021. Retrieved 15 July 2021.
  4. "Bastille Day – 14th July". Official Website of France. Archived from the original on 15 July 2014. Commemorating the storming of the Bastille on 14th July 1789, Bastille Day takes place on the same date each year. The main event is a grand military parade along the Champs-Élysées, attended by the President of the Republic and other political leaders. It is accompanied by fireworks and publics [sic] dances in towns throughout the whole of France.
  5. "India celebrates Republic Day". news.com.au. 26 January 2014. Archived from the original on 17 July 2014. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  6. "Iran Islamic Republic Day". AnnivHol-2000. p. 55. Archived from the original on 31 March 2019. Retrieved 1 March 2016.
  7. "Kiribati National Day in Kiribati in 2021". Office Holidays. Archived from the original on 26 January 2021. Retrieved 7 February 2021.
  8. Hunter, Helen-Louise (2008). "The Society and Its Environment". In Worden, Robert L. (ed.). North Korea: A Country Study (Fifth ed.). Washington: Federal Research Division of the Library of Congress. p.  85. ISBN   978-0-8444-1188-0.
  9. "Serbia Observes Constitution Day – Constitution Day in Serbia: February 15th". aglobalworld.com. Archived from the original on 23 January 2020. Retrieved 5 October 2018.
  10. "Public Holiday Schedule". www.sintmaartengov.org. Archived from the original on 1 November 2018. Retrieved 11 January 2020.