Independence Day 2024, 2025 and 2026
Independence Day in Bulgaria takes place every 22 September to celebrate the nation’s official declaration of independence from Ottoman rule on this date in 1908. The declaration formalised autonomy that had already basically existed for three decades since 1878, giving Bulgaria equal status amongst nations on the world stage.
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 22 Sep | Sun | Independence Day |
| 23 Sep | Mon | Independence Day Holiday | |
| 2025 | 22 Sep | Mon | Independence Day |
| 2026 | 22 Sep | Tue | Independence Day |
| 2027 | 22 Sep | Wed | Independence Day |
| Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates. | |||
Independence Day is a big deal for the people of Bulgaria. They participate in major festivities all around the nation. The largest celebrations, however, generally happen in Veliko Tarnovo and Sofia. Veliko Tarnovo is the name of a city that’s located in the northern central region of Bulgaria. It’s where Bulgaria’s independence was announced. Festivities for Independence Day generally begin in the morning. They usually last all throughout the course of the day, too.
Tradition is a significant part of this Bulgarian holiday. The government has a designated fund that covers Independence Day festivities all over the nation. This fund takes care of Bulgarian Independence Day celebrations that occur outside of the country, too. Bulgarians participate in all sorts of diverse activities that honour this major day in their history. If you try to take a walk in the capital city of Sofia, you’ll notice that streets are shut off on Independence Day.
Bulgarians love having fun and enjoying themselves on Independence Day. They watch outdoor musical performances during festivals. They visit cathedrals nearby to participate in liturgical masses. They also regularly attend Independence Day parades. Bicycle, civilian and military parades are all examples of types of festivities that are available on Independence Day in Bulgaria. Bulgarian flag raising traditions take place after these parades. People then put flowers and wreaths on top of war memorials. Wreath laying events are commonly seen at memorials and monuments all around the Balkan nation.
The people of Bulgaria display their respect for Independence Day in numerous other ways, too. Some people view official speeches. Others go to church to take part in special services. The options are abundant. People who are lucky enough to be in Bulgaria on Independence Day may even be able to enjoy stunning displays of fireworks. Although fireworks are particularly common in Sofia, they’re also common in other cities including both Veliko Turnovo and Varna.
Previous Years
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 22 Sep | Fri | Independence Day |
| 2022 | 22 Sep | Thu | Independence Day |