National Day in Seychelles
National Day is a public holiday in Seychelles and is known by several different names, including Seychelles Independence Day and Republic Day. It is observed annually on June 29th and commemorates the day when the country achieved its independence from Great Britain in the mid-1970s.
Seychelles (Public holiday)This holiday was originally observed on Constitution Day and was observed on June 18th, but that changed in 2015. Now, it is a day on which the general public can enjoy their day off and spend some time with their families. It is a day for family meals or picnics and for flying the Seychelles flag.
The History of National Day in Seychelles
From the moment it was first chartered in 1503 by Vasco da Gama, several European nations have attempted to claim and control the islands. This is due to its position in the Indian Ocean, which is a very strategic location for European navies.
During the Seven Years’ War in the mid-18th century, the French claimed the islands and established a colony on the island of Mahé. The British would take over control of Seychelles in April of 1811. By 1903, it was an official British Crown Colony.
In the 1960s, the movement for an independent Seychelles began to gain popularity with the public. This continued until the mid-1970s when both political parties rallied for independence from Britain. Negotiations began with Great Britain, and this resulted in the islands becoming an independent republic on June 29, 1976.
Observing National Day in Seychelles
Because this is a public holiday, it is a day off for the general population. Government buildings, schools, and most businesses are closed for the day. This gives many people the chance to enjoy this holiday with friends and family members.
It is a day for enjoying delicious foods such as grilled fish, coconut curry, breadfruit, and sausage rougaille with loved ones. It is also a day when many people raise the flag of Seychelles. All across the nation, official ceremonies and parades are also held.
Seychelles (Public holiday)
