Unification Day in Romania

Unification Day is a public holiday in Romania that is observed on the 24th of January each year. Also known as Little Union Day, this holiday commemorates the Union of the Romanian Principalities on January 24, 1859. This event was deemed extremely important because it was considered the very first step toward a unified Romania.

A process that would come to a head on December 1, 1918, when the Romanian National Assembly declared that the Kingdom of Romania had joined with Transylvania, Crișana, Maramureș, and Banat. Since this is a national holiday, most people will have a day off from work or school.

The History of Unification Day in Romania

From the 14th century onward, Moldavia and Wallachia were principalities in Eastern Europe. Then Alexandru Ioan Cuza was elected as the ruler in both places, allowing the Union of the Romanian Principalities to be formed on January 24, 1859. It was then renamed Romania in 1866, and in 1881, it became the Kingdom of Romania.

In 2014, the Day of the Unification of the Romanian Principalities was first adopted and became official when Romanian President Traian Băsescu signed the decree on December 16th. This law made January 24th of each year a public holiday. This holiday has also been a non-working day in Romania since about 2016.

Interesting Facts About Romania

Do you have a desire to learn more about Romania? If you do, then we’ve collected a few facts that will get you started on your quest for knowledge.

  • The average Romanian consumes about 14.4 liters of pure alcohol each year.
  • As of 2021, Romania was placed fourth in 4G speed.
  • Romania unveiled the world’s largest flag in 2013. It measured 349 by 227 meters.

Observing Unification Day in Romania

Because this is a relatively new holiday, it hasn’t had the chance to build up the traditions that older holidays in Romania have. Most people use this holiday as a general day off—a day to hang out with friends or to enjoy a meal with family. Maybe eat some Sarmale cabbage rolls or enjoy a bowl of beef tripe soup.

Where is it celebrated?
Romania (National holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
January 24 Wednesday
Next year (2025)
January 24 Friday
Last year (2023)
January 24 Tuesday