Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle
October 23, Thursday
History of the holiday
The holiday was established in memory of October 23, 1893, when the Internal Macedonian-Adrianople Revolutionary Organization (IMARO) was founded in the city of Thessaloniki (now in Greece). Its founders were six young teachers and public figures: Hristo Tatarchev, Dame Gruev, Petar Pop-Arsov, Andon Dimitrov, Ivan Hadzhi-Nikolov, and Hristo Batandzhiev.
The main goal of the organization was the liberation of Macedonia and Thrace from Ottoman rule and the establishment of autonomy for these territories. Later, IMARO became a key factor in the national liberation movement in the Balkans, playing a decisive role in the formation of Macedonian national identity.
Significance of the holiday
Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle Day symbolizes the people’s aspiration for freedom, self-determination, and unity. It reminds of the courage and sacrifices of generations who fought for Macedonia’s independence and the preservation of its cultural identity.
The holiday is also regarded as a moment of national reflection on the state-building process and its historical roots.
How the holiday is celebrated
In North Macedonia, this day is an official public holiday. Across the country, there are ceremonial events and cultural activities:
* laying wreaths at monuments of freedom fighters;
* speeches by government leaders and public figures;
* historical exhibitions and lectures on the revolutionary movement;
* concerts, theatrical performances, and educational programs for youth.
Interesting fact
In 2007, Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle Day was officially established as a national holiday by the Parliament of North Macedonia. It holds special significance, as it unites the memory of two key stages of the struggle — the activities of IMARO and the creation of the modern Macedonian state.
Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle in other years
- 2021 October 23, Saturday
- 2022 October 23, Sunday
- 2023 October 23, Monday
- 2024 October 23, Wednesday
- 2026 October 23, Friday