The Fourth of July is the highlight of the summer for many people in the United States, with grand celebrations that include amazing firework displays, sparklers, and scrumptious food. But Americans aren’t alone in their commemoration of their independence day. Many countries around the world celebrate freedom and national pride in fun and unique ways. Read on to explore seven independence day celebrations from around the world.
- Australia (January 26)
Australia Day, as it’s referred to, happens to fall during the summer months in the Land Down Under. Taking advantage of the warm weather, Aussies celebrate this day with barbeques and picnics on the beach. In Sydney, there are even world-famous boat races.
- Ghana (March 6)
On March 6, 1957, Ghana became the first African nation to gain independence from the United Kingdom. In commemoration of this important event, each year Ghanaians set off fireworks, hold parades, and gather at lively street parties. The theme for the 2024 festivities was “Our Democracy, Our Pride.”
- Norway (May 17)
The people of Norway hold a celebration of the signing of their constitution each May, with youngsters taking a central role in the events. There are children’s parades all over the country where kids march with patriotic banners alongside marching bands. In Oslo, the royal family waves to the young participants as they pass by the stately Royal Palace.
- Philippines (June 2)
On June 2, the citizens of the Philippines wake up with the spirit of independence in mind and watch the flag-raising ceremony that begins the commemoration of the day that Emilio Aguinaldo and other revolutionary leaders declared independence from Spanish rule. Today, Filipinos dedicate this day to spending time with family and enjoying delicious food. You can find Filipinos all around the world celebrating this special occasion. For example, in New York there is a Philippine Independence Day Parade and street fair.
- France (July 14)
You’ll see a plenty of red, white, and blue in France on July 14, when the country celebrates Bastille Day. The name comes from the storming of the Bastille—an event that sparked the French Revolution in 1789. The festivities include a military parade, fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, and fundraising parties called Firemen’s Balls that are held in fire stations all over the country.
- India (August 15)
The kite is a symbol of freedom in India, and on August 15, you can witness kites flying high all across the nation to commemorate its independence from British rule. In the morning, before the kites take off, the prime minister raises the Indian flag and delivers an inspirational speech at the historic Red Fort in Delhi.
- Mexico (September 15)
If you know a least a few facts about Mexican history, then I’m sure you’ve heard of the famous Grito de Dolores—the battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence given by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in the town of Dolores. On September 15, Mexico observes its independence day to recognize that momentous event. Parades, concerts, and parties big and small take place in every part of the country, but the main event takes place in the Zócalo in Mexico City, where hundreds of thousands of people gather to hear the president repeat the Grito de Dolores.
By Kelli Drummer-Avendano
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