Republic Day in North Macedonia
In North Macedonia, the 2nd day of August is observed as Republic Day. This holiday commemorates two events that happened on this date in Macedonian history. The first event that happened on this date was the Illinden Uprising of 1903. the second thing that happened on this date was the establishment of the Republic in 1944.
Both of these are important dates in Macedonian history and that’s why this day is observed as a limited public holiday. By limited, we mean that most shops will close and many people will have the day off, but a lot of restaurants and bars will remain open to service people celebrating this holiday.
The History Of Republic Day In Macedonia
Since the Middle Ages, August 2nd has been an important date in Macedonia. It was a major religious holiday that celebrated Ilinden or St. Elijah’s Day. It’s also the day on which an uprising against the Ottomans occurred in 1903. This uprising was led by the Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization.
This uprising would liberate the town of Krushevo, but eventually, the Ottomans would take back the town and put down the uprising. On this date in 1944, during WWII, the Anti-Fascist Assembly for the National Liberation of Macedonia declared the People’s republic of Macedonia.
Observing Republic Day In Macedonia
This holiday is celebrated with various events all across Macedonia, but many of the main celebrations take place in Krushevo. This includes military parades, Color Parades, marching bands, and other events. It’s also a day off for many people, so bars and restaurants are usually filled with people celebrating this holiday.
Political speeches and other events are also important on this day, particularly at Mechkin Kamen — a hill (Bear’s Stone) where the Battle of Meckin Kamen took place. It’s also a day when many people enjoy traditional Macedonian dishes with friends and family members. Dishes include Sarma, Pastrmajlija, and Polneti Piperki. This is a day of great merriment, and a day for citizens to appreciate their freedom.
