Every year, an independence day is observed to mark the anniversary of a country’s independence or statehood. These events typically occur after a country or state has broken away from its former membership in another nation or state, after a military occupation has ended, or following a significant shift in leadership. Numerous nations celebrate their freedom from colonial rule. Not every nation celebrates Independence Day as a national holiday. Numerous countries commemorate additional important anniversaries, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Ireland, Luxembourg, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, and Turkey.

September 21st is a day of national pride and celebration for several countries around the world. These nations have fought bravely for their independence, and this day commemorates their triumph over colonial rule or oppressive regimes. Let’s explore the stories behind these countries and their celebrations.

1. Armenia

Armenia gained its independence from the Soviet Union on September 21, 1991, and till now the day has become the only main holiday in Armenia. After centuries of foreign rule, Armenians were finally able to establish their own sovereign state. This Day in Armenia, is a grand celebration marked by parades, fireworks, and cultural events. The country’s rich history and vibrant culture are showcased on this special day.

On Independence Day, the following festivities take place in one form or another:

• The President of Armenia’s national awards event commemorating honoured citizens and veterans of the armed forces.
• Historical events taught in Armenia’s elementary and high schools.
• Special events commemorating Armenia’s history.
• The public can view an exhibition about the armed forces.
• Concerts in Yerevan’s public spaces.
  Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan declared at a ceremony honouring Gyumri’s City Day that a new national holiday will be observed in various regions of the nation, beginning with Gyumri in 2019. A modified event was held in Victory Park in 2020, where Sukhoi Su-30 jets flew over the park’s eternal flame in a finger-four formation. Celebrations for Independence Day are also observed in diaspora nations like Lebanon, the United States, and Russia. On this day, Armenian-American youth organisations organise demonstrations and cultural events, mostly in the United States.

2. Belize

Belize achieved freedom from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981. The country, formerly known as British Honduras, was a British colony for over two centuries. This liberty in Belize is celebrated with colourful parades, traditional music, and cultural performances. The country’s diverse heritage, including Mayan, Garifuna, and Mestizo influences, is reflected in the celebrations.

In Belize, there are two festivals called September Celebrations, that are separated by just eleven days. They are as follows:

September 10 is Battle of St. George’s Caye Day (also known as National Day), observed since 1898; September 21 is Independence Day, observed since 1981.
Annually, a calendar of events has been customarily organised around these two occasions. Celebrations are enhanced by yearly customs, including the Queen of the Bay pageant, talent shows, concerts, the Citizens Parade on the tenth, the Uniform Parade on the twenty-first and the Carnival, which is usually held on the middle Saturday but has occasionally been conducted on other days.

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica declared its independence from Spain on September 15, 1821, but it wasn’t until September 21, 1823, that the country officially separated from the First Mexican Empire. This Day in Costa Rica is a joyous occasion which is marked by parades, fireworks, and cultural events. The country’s commitment to peace and environmental conservation is celebrated on this day.

4. Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea gained independence from Spain on September 12, 1968, but the country’s independence was not fully recognised until September 21, 1970. Independence Day in Equatorial Guinea is celebrated with parades, cultural performances, and speeches by government officials. The country’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous traditions, is showcased on this day.

5. Moldova

Moldova declared its freedom from the Soviet Union on August 27, 1991, but September 21, 1991, is considered the official date of independence. Moldova’s independence was a hard-fought battle, and the country’s people celebrate this day with parades, concerts, and cultural events. Moldova’s rich history and traditions are honoured on Independence Day.

6. Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan declared its independence from the Soviet Union on October 27, 1991, but September 21, 1991, is considered the official date of independence. Turkmenistan’s freedom was a significant milestone for the country, and the day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural events. Turkmenistan’s unique culture, influenced by Persian, Turkic, and Russian traditions, is showcased on such a Day.

7. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan declared its independence from the Soviet Union on August 31, 1991, but September 21, 1991, is considered the official date of independence. Uzbekistan’s was a hard-fought battle, and the country’s people celebrate this day with parades, concerts, and cultural events. Uzbekistan’s rich history and traditions are honoured on emancipation Day.

8. Namibia

Namibia achieved independence from South Africa on March 21, 1990, but September 21, 1990, is considered the official date of independence. Namibia’s independence was a significant milestone for the country, and the day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural events. Namibia’s diverse culture, which is influenced by African, European, and Asian traditions, is showcased on this emancipation day.

These countries, each with its own unique history and culture, celebrate their freedom on September 21st. It’s a day to remember the sacrifices made by their people, to honour their heritage, and to look forward to a bright future.