Independence Day in Croatia
Observed as a memorial day in Croatia, Independence Day is a holiday that’s observed on June 25th and celebrates Croatia’s declaration of independence from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Between 2002 and 2019, this holiday was celebrated as a publicly observed holiday on October 8th, which was the date that the Croatian Parliament ended relations with the SFR Yugoslavia.
Croatia (Observance)However, in 2020, it was moved to its current place on the calendar in observance of the day when the Croatian Parliament declared independence. This holiday is not currently a state holiday, and as such, businesses remain open on this day.
The History Of Independence Day In Croatia
In May of 1991, the Croatian Referendum on Independence was held for voters to decide on, and approximately 93% of voters decided to support independence. On June 25th of that year, the Croatian Parliament proclaimed the country’s independence.
A week later, on July 7th, Croatia and Slovenia signed the Brioni Declaration, an agreement between the two countries that all acts and declarations by both parliaments relating to those states’ secession from Yugoslavia would be paused for three months.
On October 8, 1991, talks broke down, and Croatia ended up moving forward with its plan towards independence. In 2001, Croatia created Independence Day and placed it on October 8th. It was celebrated on this day until 2020 when changes were made to public holidays in the country. It has been observed on June 25th ever since. Currently, this day is not a public holiday, although it was at one time.
Observing Independence Day In Croatia
This holiday is not classified as a state holiday in Croatia but instead is classified as a memorial day. Because of this classification, it is not a public holiday, and people do not get the day off. However, people do take the time to enjoy this holiday with friends and family members, and there are some official observances of this day.
Croatia (Observance)
