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WedOct 29

Republic Day of Turkey – October 29, 2025

Republic Day of Turkey is an annual holiday observed on October 29. This year marks the 99th anniversary of the holiday celebration. The celebrations begin at noon on October 28th till the next day. Turkey had been a republic in effect since April 23, 1920, when the Grand National Assembly of Turkey was established, but official recognition came three and a half years later. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who was later chosen as the first President by the Grand National Assembly, declared the country a republic on October 29, 1923. During the celebration, heartfelt respects to the republic’s founder are paid.

History of Republic Day of Turkey

The Turkish War of Independence against the occupying Allied Powers resulted in the abolition of the Sultanate on November 1, 1922, and the signing of the Treaty of Lausanne on July 24, 1923. The newly recognized Turkish parliament proclaimed the foundation of the Republic of Turkey on October 29, 1923, formally ending the Ottoman Empire. Mustafa Kemal, the leader of the Turkish National Liberation War and afterward known as ‘Atatürk’ (father of Turks), was unanimously elected as the Republic’s first president on the same day. Turkey became a secular, unitary, and parliamentary republic as a result of reforms initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk — the country’s first president.

Turkey had been a republic since April 23, 1920, when the Grand National Assembly in Ankara was opened. When the Turkish parliament convened for the first time in 1920, the crumbling Ottoman Empire was occupied by Allied forces in nearly every corner. Turkey was a key player in the Korean War and became a member of NATO in 1952. Several military coups occurred in the country during the latter half of the 20th century. In the 1980s, the economy was liberalized, resulting in increased economic growth and political stability.

Turkey Republic Day is a national holiday that is honored by patriotic displays. Republic Day celebrations, like other fall events, are frequently held outside. Republic Day is a national holiday under Law No. 2429 of 1981, hence all government offices are closed on that day. Northern Cyprus observes it as well. The Turkish flag’s colors of red and white are commonly used in decorations.

Republic Day of Turkey timeline

1922
Turkey's Inception

The Republic of Turkey is established following the fall of Sultan Mehmet VI Vahdettin by the new Republican Parliament.

1923
Turkey Republic Declaration

The Grand National Assembly of Turkey gives the official declaration of Turkey's republic status on October 29.

1925
Official National Holiday

The day of the official declaration of Turkey's Republic status, October 29, is designated as a national holiday by a statute.

1933
The 10th Anniversary

Turkey Republic Day Marks its 10 Year commemoration.

1978
50th Anniversary Celebration

Turkey Republic Day is celebrated for the 50th year in a row.

2021
98 Years As A Republic

Turkey Republic Day marks its 98 years as a republic.

Republic Day of Turkey FAQs

What is Turkey's most important holiday?

Turkey’s Republic Day is the most important Turkish national holiday.

Are Turkish people friendly?

Yes! Turkish folks are extremely kind, eager to assist, and inquisitive.

What is the main religion in Turkey?

The country’s predominant religion is Islam.

What language do they speak in Turkey?

Over 30 minority languages, such as Mesopotamian Arabic, Northern Kurdish (Kurmanji), and Zazaki, are spoken across the nation despite Turkish being the official language.

What is Turkey's national animal?

Turkey’s national animal is the gray wolf. Gray wolves are primarily found in the woods and mountainous regions of Turkey. Gray wolves, often known as timber wolves, can reach 98 pounds in weight.

What is Turkey's national food?

Manty is regarded as Turkey’s national dish. The meal is typically made with grilled or fried lamb or beef. It comes with a hot sauce made from natural yogurt.

How to Observe Republic Day of Turkey

  1. Participate in Turkish celebratory events

    Join the throngs of people celebrating at local stadiums to witness performances commemorating Turkey's Republic Day. Theater sketches, poetry readings, and traditional Turkish dances are other activities you can partake in.

  2. Prepare a Turkish dish

    What better way to join in the celebration than sharing a warm Turkish meal with friends and family. Look up recipes online and create a feast for the special occasion.

  3. Travel to Turkey

    Turkey has amazing scenery and people. Plan a trip to Turkey for Republic Day or start making vacation plans now.

5 Fun Facts About Turkey

  1. Santa Claus

    Santa Claus, or Saint Nicolas, was born in Patara, or what is now known as “Demre” in Turkey.

  2. European and Asian links

    Istanbul is located on both the European and Asian continents.

  3. World's hazelnut producer

    Turkey is the world's greatest producer of hazelnuts, accounting for 75% of global production.

  4. Tulips originated from Turkey

    Tulips were first brought to Europe by Turkey in the 16th century.

  5. World's second-oldest underground railway

    After the London Underground, Turkey's “Tünel'' is the world's second-oldest underground railway.

Why Republic Day of Turkey is Important

  1. Turkish people are patriotic

    Turkish people are extremely proud of their heritage and are eager to share their country's history and culture with guests. They are more than happy to share stories about their hometown's history while showing you the attractions no matter where you travel.

  2. Timeless culture and traditions

    Even though Turkey is a modern country, many of its traditions and cultural features have survived the decades. Turkey's past is celebrated and maintained in everything from traditional dance and music to literature and art.

  3. It has a rich history

    Turkey is a country that never ceases to enchant with its long and rich history, which has seen civilizations and empires, as well as diverse ethnicities and religions, leave their imprint. From ancient sites that defy historical truths or the world's second-oldest railway, Turkey has a lot more to offer than just delicious food, beaches, and lively marketplaces.

Republic Day of Turkey dates

Year Date Day
2025 October 29 Wednesday
2026 October 29 Thursday
2027 October 29 Friday
2028 October 29 Sunday
2029 October 29 Monday
October
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
 
 

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