Revolution Day in Suriname

Suriname is the smallest independent country in South America and is located on its northeastern Atlantic coast. It’s a country that celebrates Revolution Day on February 25th every year. Suriname has an area of approximately 163, 821 square kilometers and a population of approximately 576,000 people.

This holiday commemorates the 1980 coup d’état that overthrew Prime Minster Arron on this day. This holiday is observed with military parades, the raising of the Suriname flag, and other festive activities. It’s a public holiday in Suriname, so the general population has the day off and schools, government offices, and most businesses are closed.

The History Of Revolution Day In Suriname

From the 17th century until it gained its independence, Suriname was under Dutch control. In 1975, it would gain independence and Johan Ferrier would become the first President of Suriname, while Henck Arron would become the first Prime Minister.

During the 1977 elections, Arron won a further term in office and his regime was accused of fraud. This created a lot of discontent in the country, and a lot of people decided to emigrate to the Netherlands. On February 25, 1980, high-ranking military officials would accuse Aaron of corruption. Arron was overthrown and thrown in jail as a military coup d’état was led by Desi Bouterse. This coup would become known as the Sergeants Coup because it involved 15 sergeants under Bouterse.

Bouterse would be made chairman of the National Military Council of Suriname and he would rule until 1991. President Ferrier refused to recognize this new government, so another coup was staged five months later to remove him. In July of 2010, Bouterse was elected as Suriname’s President. Once he became president, he made the 25th of February a public holiday.

Observing Revolution Day In Suriname

Because this is a public holiday in Suriname, the general population usually has a day off. It also means that government buildings, schools, and many businesses are closed on this day. Other ways in which this holiday is celebrated are through military parades and people raising the flag of Suriname.

Where is it celebrated?
Suriname (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
February 25 Saturday
Next year (2024)
February 25 Sunday
Last year (2022)
February 25 Friday