Independence Day Of The Republic Of Belarus
Observed annually on July 3rd in Belarus, Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus is a public holiday that commemorates the country’s liberation from Nazi occupation during World War II. Also known simply as Liberation Day or Republic Day, this holiday is observed with quite a lot of enthusiasm and fanfare.
Belarus (National holiday)Some of the things that people can expect to see on this holiday include parades, concerts, and, of course, fireworks. It’s also a general day off for most everyone in the country, and many businesses are closed for the day. It’s also a day on which politicians like to address the general public with speeches about the significance of the day.
The History of Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus
On July 3, 1944, the Soviets liberated the capital city of Belarus, Minsk, from the Wehrmacht during the Minsk Offensive. In 1996, President Alexander Lukashenko suggested a national referendum be held to make the holiday Independence Day. Before this change, the holiday was only known as Minsk Liberation Day.
This holiday is now somewhat controversial because many people have been celebrating Independence Day on March 25th. This is the date of the 1918 declaration of independence by the Belarusian People’s Republic.
Observing Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus
One of the major events of this holiday is a military parade that features the Belarusian Armed Forces’ Minsk Garrison. There are also parades held in other major cities, including Haradok, Mogilev, Barysaw, Brest, and Gomel, to name a few. There is usually also a ceremony headed by Belarus’ President and held at Independence Palace.
Other events on this holiday include street fairs, cultural events, and a fireworks display. Concerts and other events may also be held on this day. Finally, for those who are religious, there are usually religious services to attend on the day before and on the day of this holiday.
Belarus (National holiday)
