Independence Day
June 25, Wednesday
Brief history of the holiday
1. In May 1991, a referendum was held where about 93% of Croats voted for independence.
2. On June 25, 1991, the Croatian Parliament officially declared independence. Seven days later, on July 7, the Brioni Agreement was signed for a three-month moratorium.
3. On October 8, 1991, the parliament formally severed ties with Yugoslavia, marking the legal conclusion of the process.
4. From 2002 to 2019, the holiday was observed on October 8. But since late 2019, Independence Day is again celebrated on June 25, while October 8 became a working memorial day — Parliament Day.
Why it is important
* The day symbolizes the struggle for Croatia’s sovereignty and self-determination.
* It pays tribute to the victims of the War of Independence (1991–1995), including the sieges of Vukovar and Dubrovnik.
* It serves as a moment of national unity and pride, reminding of the achievements of a democratic state.
How Independence Day is celebrated
1. Wreaths are laid at monuments and memorial plaques, including in front of the Parliament building (Sabor).
2. State banquets, official ceremonies, and political speeches are held.
3. Concerts, cultural festivals, and festive exhibitions take place in cities.
4. People decorate streets with Croatian flags — red, white, and blue — and wear pins with national colors.
5. In some regions, fireworks and folk festivities are organized.
Connection with other memorial days
* From 2002 to 2019, independence was celebrated on October 8, while June 25 was called Statehood Day (Dan državnosti).
* Since 2020, May 30 has again become Statehood Day, marking the first multi-party parliament of 1990.
Conclusion
Independence Day is more than a date: it is a symbol of national rebirth, remembrance of struggle, and celebration of democracy. Every June 25, Croats across the country and abroad remember the path to freedom, honor those who gave their lives, and celebrate their identity.