Independence Day in Ukraine
Independence Day, as observed in Ukraine, is a holiday celebrated on the 24th of August. It commemorates the country’s Declaration of Independence Act, which was passed in 1991. Before this date, Ukrainians recognized January 22nd as Ukrainian Independence Day.
This holiday recognizes the passage of the Declaration of State Sovereignty by Ukraine’s Parliament in 1990. Traditionally, it has been observed with a military parade held in the capital of Ukraine, Kyiv, but those parades were discontinued in 2019. However, there was a military parade held on the 30th anniversary of Ukrainian Independence in 2021.
The History of Ukrainian Independence Day
The Act of Declaration of Independence of Ukraine was adopted on August 24th by the Ukrainian Parliament after the August Coup—a failed attempt by communist hardliners of the Soviet Union to take control of the country. In response to this event, the Supreme Soviet Parliament of the Ukrainian SSR approved the Act of Declaration. On December 1st, 1991, the referendum was confirmed.
Observing Ukrainian Independence Day
Although there was a military parade for this holiday in 2021, it is unclear whether future military parades will be held on this day. Regardless of whether one is held or not, there are a variety of other ways in which this holiday is celebrated. Festivals, concerts, and exhibitions are held all across the country.
There are also political speeches, airshows, and other events. Over the past few years, this holiday has also been a day when people have used to protest their grievances with the Ukrainian government.