Albanian Independence Day, also known as Flag Day, is a significant day in the calendars of Albanian people around the world every year. It is an opportunity for Albanians to get together and celebrate. It is also a chance for Albanians and people of the Albanian diaspora around the world to remember their shared history and commemorate those who fought for independence over the years.
But, how is Albanian Flag Day celebrated today? How was independence won in Albania? And where else is Albanian Flag Day celebrated. In this blog we’ll be exploring everything you need to know about Albanian independence day including:
- When is Albanian Flag Day?
- What does the Albanian Flag represent?
- Why is Albanian Flag Day celebrated?
- How do Albanians Celebrate Independence Day?
- 3 interesting facts about Albania
- What is the best way to send money to Albania?
When is Albanian Flag Day?
Independence Day or Flag Day is celebrated on the 28th of November every year. It is a public holiday in Albanian, North Macedonia and Kosovo and is celebrated throughout the Albanian diaspora around the world. The day is marked with ceremonies, events and flag flying across the country. It is a non-working day observed in Albania. Among communities of Albanian immigrants it is a chance to reconnect with their heritage and celebrate with loved ones.
What does the Albanian Flag represent?
The Albanian flag is a red flag. In the centre there is a silhouetted black double-headed eagle. Traditionally, the red of the flag represents the strength, valour, bravery of the Albanian people as well as the blood they have shed over the years to protect their country.
This flag was first adopted 579 years ago in 1443 before a more general scheme was agreed in 1912. In 1946 a star was added to the flag before being removed in 1992. In 2002 the design of the flag was standardised. The red field with a black two-headed eagle continues to represent the nation of Albania to this day.
Why is Albanian Flag Day celebrated?
Albanian Flag Day marks the day Albania declared independence from the Ottoman Empire back in 1912. The occasion refers to the day the Albanian flag was raised in Vlora. The 28th of November also refers to the day on which Skanderbeg, legendary Lord of Albania and military commander, led a successful rebellion against the Ottoman Empire and raised the Albanian flag in Krujë on the 28th November 1443.
How do Albanians Celebrate Independence Day?
So, now you know a bit about the politics and history of Flag Day in Albania, what about the actual celebrations?
Some of the key Independence Day traditions in Albania include flag flying, military parades, traditional music, and cultural events. Here are a few of the ways Albanian citizens and those of the Albanian diaspora mark the day:
- Festive parade
One of the most important Flag Day traditions is the festive parade in Tirana, the capital and largest city of Albania. The streets are lined with stalls and flags fly from every balcony as the whole city marks the occasion in style. Other cities like Berat, Gjirokaster, Vlora and Durrës also have their own festive flag day parades.
- Concerts, music and culture.
Thousands flood the centre of Tirana to enjoy the parade but also to enjoy the concerts in the evening. Often there are musical performances by famous Albanian musicians as well as international stars like Emile Sandé. Indeed, November 29, the day following Flag Day, is known as White Night and is about bringing art and culture to more Albanian people. Museums, theatres, cinemas and galleries will be free for the day and invite people to join and enjoy their art.
- Families get together
National holidays are a great opportunity for Albanian families to get together and celebrate. For many it is a tradition on the 28th November to head to your family member’s house, bring some food and drink, and watch the festive parade on the television. Despite the cold weather in November, as the night continues families and friends will head out to join other families and friends in their communities.
If you’re thinking about travelling to Albania for Flag Day you should be aware that your experience is likely to be affected by the celebrations. It is a national holiday therefore many shops and public services will be closed. If you are in Tirana in particular there will probably be road closures, travel disruption, and delays on public transportation. While it will be a particularly busy time, it will also be an opportunity for you to experience some authentic Albanian culture.
interesting are 3 interesting facts about Albania?
- The main religion in Albania is Islam. The most recent census indicated that over 58% of the Albanian population are Muslim. Roman Catholics make up 10% of the population. The reason for this is that the country was under Ottoman rule for many years.
- Albania is home to the oldest lake in Europe. Lake Ohrid is an ancient lake that is protected by UNESCO. Within the lake are a number of unique plants, animals and living fossils.
- Albania is also home to the largest oil reserves in Europe. Despite the relative small size of the nation, Albania is in many ways an oil giant. The large deposits of oil in Albania make the country a valuable and attractive partner for many other European nations.
What is the best way to send money to Albania?
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