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Statehood Day – June 25, 2024

Statehood Day, observed on June 25 every year in Slovenia, is a special day. This day has been set aside to honor, respect, celebrate, and commemorate the country’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Do you know the date that Slovenia gained its independence? If you’re guessing June 25, here’s an interesting fact. Although Statehood Day of Slovenia is considered to be June 25, the nation’s independence did not come until June 26. Let’s learn everything about the history, significance, important events, ways to celebrate, and interesting facts about Slovenia’s Statehood Day!

History of Statehood Day

Slovenia’s Statehood Day is a national holiday celebrating the nation’s independence from Yugoslavia. Although the formal declaration of independence for Slovenia did not come until June 26, 1991, Slovenia’s Statehood Day is celebrated every June 25 because that was the date on which the initial acts regarding independence were passed to make Slovenia independent.

Most people confuse Slovenia’s Independence and Unity Day, celebrated each year on December 26, with Statehood Day, but the former is a completely different day. It is celebrated in honor of the December 26, 1990, official proclamation of the results of the plebiscite that was held three days earlier. On this plebiscite, 95% of all Slovenian voters voted in favor of making Slovenia a sovereign nation. However, this celebration was short-lived during that time as the proclamation started the ‘Ten-Day War’ with Yugoslavia. During this war, Yugoslavian army tanks headed from barracks in Slovenia and Croatia to Slovenia’s borders with Italy, resulting in a terrible clash. Later, in October 1991, the last Yugoslav troops left Slovenia.

Today, Slovenia is one of the most peace-loving nations in the world, ranking fifth place out of 163 nations in the 2021 annual Global Peace Index. It is also one of the world’s most environmentally-friendly nations with an Environmental Performance Index (EPI) rating of 67.30, only below Denmark, the U.K., Finland, Malta, Sweden, and Luxembourg. Moreover, after these many years after independence, a remarkable 53.6% of Slovenia is protected land — this is a higher percentage than any nation on Earth except Venezuela.

Statehood Day timeline

1917
The Declaration of Slovene

The declaration of Slovene, Croatian, and Serb representatives is signed in the Vienna Parliament.

1918
The Breaking Off of all Relations

Croats and Serbs break off all relations with Austria-Hungary and proclaim the State of Slovenes.

1990
The Slovenian Independence Referendum

A vote emerges in favor of the establishment of an independent Slovenia.

1991
The Declaration of Independence

The legislation relating to the independence of Slovenia is passed.

Statehood Day FAQs

Is Slovenia a safe country?

Slovenia is a very safe country to travel to as violent crimes are very rare in the nation. It is also one of the most peaceful nations in the world.

What language do they speak in Slovenia?

The official and national language of Slovenia is Slovene, spoken by a large number of people in the nation. Italian and Hungarian are other recognized languages in the country.

What is Slovenia famous for?

Slovenia is famous for its beautiful landscapes, lakes, and dramatic scenery. Slovenia is also the perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers!

How to Observe Statehood Day

  1. Watch cultural programs

    Watch the cultural program and the main speech happening at the Ljubljana Castle each year. This is the best thing you can do to celebrate Slovenia Statehood Day.

  2. Visit Slovenia

    Slovenia is an awesome country that is rich in culture and wealth, so if you’re looking for a sign to go on a trip, plan your visit to Slovenia. The beauty and culture of it will captivate you!

  3. Share your story

    If you are that lucky someone who has already visited the beautiful country of Slovenia, share it with your friends and family! Encourage others to visit the country.

5 Interesting Facts About Slovenia

  1. Beekeeping is an identity

    There are around 90,000 beekeepers in a population of two million.

  2. It has Europe’s cheapest ski resort

    Kranjska Gora in Slovenia is one of the cheapest resorts in Europe.

  3. It’s a haven for white-water rafting

    Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is a region renowned for hiking and white-water rafting.

  4. It has a world heritage site

    Skocjan caves in Slovenia are one of the largest underground canyons in the world.

  5. There’s a beach

    Slovenia has a tiny coastline of just about 30 miles and yes, you can take a dip on the beach!

Why Statehood Day is Important

  1. It commemorates independence

    Slovenia's Statehood Day is a national holiday celebrating independence. The independence of Slovenia is a result of the effort and sacrifice of thousands of people.

  2. It's a day to celebrate

    Although shops and other stores may be closed on Slovenia Statehood Day, the day is marked by festivals and a ceremony nationwide. It’s a day that calls for enjoyment!

  3. It’s a day to remember

    Slovenia's Statehood Day is not just a day to celebrate independence but a day to remember and honor the people behind it. It would be unjust to forget and not honor the day.

Statehood Day dates

YearDateDay
2024June 25Tuesday
2025June 25Wednesday
2026June 25Thursday
2027June 25Friday
2028June 25Sunday

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