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SatAug 24

Ukraine Independence Day – August 24, 2024

Ukraine Independence Day takes place on August 24 and it marks the Ukraine’s declaration of independence from the U.S.S.R. in 1991. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and is the most popular day of the year. Ukraine has always had its own culture and language, although it has been dominated for centuries by Russia, Poland, Turkey, and other nations. As a result, the holiday has a special meaning for Ukrainians, as it allows them to express their affection for a country run by and for them. The time has come to recognize and celebrate Ukraine’s past heroes and those who battled for their country’s independence. The official celebration takes place in Kyiv, where the President delivers a speech, and state leaders lay flowers at the monuments of great Ukrainians and participate in a prayer for Ukraine at St. Sophia’s Church.

History of Ukraine Independence Day

The Soviet Union dissolved in the 1990s and on July 16, 1990, the Ukrainian government declared state sovereignty. A year later, July 16 was honored as Ukraine Independence Day. In August 1991, there was a coup to restore the communist rule in the Soviet Union, but it failed. As a result of the attempted coup, the fears about a return to the Soviet government increased, and the people’s deputies brought the Ukrainian flag into the session hall of the Verkhovna Rada. On August 24, the Ukrainian parliament adopted the Act of Independence of Ukraine, and a yellow and blue flag appeared on the building of the Verkhovna Rada.

The flag of Ukraine has a deep historical tradition. In the 20th century, between 1917 and 1920, it became the national flag of the Ukrainian People’s Republic but was banned under the Soviet regime and became a symbol of the independence movement. The condition of the declaration was that a national referendum should take place on December 1, 1991, and there were fears that Ukraine could be divided into east and west. Over 80% of the electorate voted in favor of independence, with 92% voting yes. In June 1992, parliament voted for an amendment to the legislative, and July 16 was replaced by August 24 as Ukraine’s Independence Day.

Ukraine Independence Day timeline

1939
The Ukrainian Insurgent Army Takes Charge

As Hitler and Stalin invade Poland, underground Ukrainian nationalists form the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, fighting Soviet and Nazi soldiers.

Post-World War II
The Ukrainian S.S.R. Constitution

Certain amendments to the Constitution of the Ukrainian S.S.R. are accepted and allowed to act as a separate subject of international law to a certain extent.

1991
Ukraine Becomes an Independent State

Ukraine becomes an independent state on August 24, 1991.

December 1, 1991
90% of Ukrainian Citizens Vote for Independence

With almost 90% of the vote in Ukraine and 56% in Crimea, people back a referendum formalizing the country's independence from the Soviet Union.

Ukraine Independence Day FAQs

When did the Ukraine get its independence?

Ukraine gained independence in 1991.

What was Ukraine called?

Ukraine was called the Soviet Socialist Republic (S.S.R.) during 1918 to 1920.

Which is the biggest holiday in Ukraine?

Independence Day of Ukraine is the biggest holiday celebrated in all cities with festivals.

How to Observe Ukraine Independence Day

  1. Attend the celebration

    Attend the official celebration and hear the presidential speech. Join the event with family and friends and enjoy the day.

  2. Read the history

    Read about the rich history of the nation. Learn about the long journey to freedom and the struggles.

  3. Explore the nation

    Visit the nation. Visit the attractions and learn more about the place, food, traditions and culture.

5 Interesting Facts About Ukraine

  1. Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe

    Ukraine is the largest country in Europe, covering 375 square miles, after Russia, which borders Asia and Europe.

  2. The world’s deepest metro station

    Arsenalna metro station on the Kyiv city metro line is 346 feet deep and is the deepest metro station in the world.

  3. The most visited McDonald's in the world

    McDonald's restaurant on Vokzalna Square in Kyiv is the world's third most visited McDonald's restaurant.

  4. It is a well-educated nation

    Ukraine ranks fourth amongst the most educated nations in the world, with 99.4% of Ukrainians being literate.

  5. Mount Hoverla gathers tourists

    Mount Hoverla is Ukraine's highest mountain and has been a popular destination for extreme sports enthusiasts since the late 1800s.

Why Ukraine Independence Day is Important

  1. It ignites a feeling of patriotism

    Ukraine's independence is one of the biggest celebrations in the country. This day is marked by a strong sense of patriotism for the country.

  2. It celebrates freedom

    This day honors the people and their freedom. It is a day of joy and celebration for those who have fought for their freedom.

  3. It brings people together

    This day brings people together for the celebration. People all over the country participate in military parades, live music concerts, patriotic events, and fireworks.

Ukraine Independence Day dates

YearDateDay
2024August 24Saturday
2025August 24Sunday
2026August 24Monday
2027August 24Tuesday
2028August 24Thursday

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