When is the Independence Day of Belarus?

Belarus celebrates its Independence Day on 3 July each year. This date marks the Soviet liberation of Minsk from Nazi forces in 1944, which is considered the day Belarus regained its freedom.

Is Independence Day of Belarus a public holiday?

Yes, Independence Day on 3 July is a public holiday in Belarus. It is celebrated with official ceremonies, parades, and various festive events across the country.

History of Belarus independence day

3 July 1944 marks a pivotal moment in Belarusian history as the day of Soviet liberation of Minsk from the Wehrmacht during the Minsk Offensive, code-named Bagration. This day, celebrated as Independence Day on 3 July, commemorates the liberation of Belarus from Nazi occupation. Before 1996, Belarus celebrated Independence Day on 27 July, marking the Declaration of Sovereignty from the Soviet Union. However, a controversial national referendum in 1996, proposed by President Alexander Lukashenko, shifted the celebration to 3 July. This decision ties the holiday closely to the historic Soviet liberation rather than the political declaration. Since the waves of unrest in Central and Eastern Europe in 1989, particularly in Poland, countries in the region sought independence from the Soviet Union. Belarus declared its independence between 1991 and 1995, with key moments like the Declaration of Sovereignty of Belarus, constitutional status granted on 25 August 1991, and the ratification of the Belavezha Accords on 10 December 1991, formally dissolving the Soviet Union. The festive counter during Independence Day showcases national pride, and a countdown to this day builds excitement every year.

Capital of Belarus

Minsk, the capital and largest city of Belarus, lies along the Svislach and Niamiha rivers, the latter now subterranean. This city holds a special administrative status and serves as the administrative centre for the Minsk region and district. As of 2024, Minsk’s population nears two million, making it the 11th-most populous city in Europe. Notably, Minsk is one of the administrative capitals of both the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). First mentioned in 1067, Minsk was initially the capital of the Principality of Minsk, an appanage of the Principality of Polotsk. The city was annexed by the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in 1242 and received town privileges in 1499. Minsk also served as the capital of the Minsk Voivodeship within the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth before its territories were annexed by the Russian Empire in 1793 during the Second Partition of Poland. From 1919 to 1991, Minsk was the capital of the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic within the Soviet Union. Following the Soviet Union’s dissolution, Minsk became the capital of the independent Republic of Belarus. Each year, as the festive countdown leads up to Independence Day, Minsk comes alive with celebrations that reflect both its rich history and vibrant culture, proving the resilience of the Belarusian spirit. The festive counter serves as a reminder of how history and community combine in this unique city.