Republic Day

Republic Day marks May 28, 1918, when the Armenian National Council declared Armenia's sovereignty and proclaimed the first independent republic. That period was difficult - the republic faced mass famine and a flow of refugees. On December 2, 1920, the Red Army occupied Armenia, and it became a Soviet republic. Armenia's independence was restored in 1991. The first Republic Day celebrations after Soviet Armenia began at the start of the Karabakh movement. In 1988, on the 70th anniversary of the first republic, the Armenian flag was raised for the first time in front of the Matenadaran. A military parade took place and a holiday message was delivered by the defense minister. Today Republic Day is considered a national holiday and is celebrated with fireworks, concerts, parades, and other cultural events. The celebrations coincide with the anniversary of the Battle of Sardarapat, when Ottoman forces were pushed out of Armenia. Every year the leaders of Armenia and Artsakh visit the Sardarapat memorial. In 2018, the 100th anniversary of the founding of the first Armenian Republic was celebrated. Large-scale events were held with the participation of the presidents of the country and Artsakh, the prime minister, and the Catholicos of All Armenians. A ceremonial military parade was held at the Sardarapat memorial, featuring military uniforms and equipment from different periods. Republic Day celebrations continue today, including cultural, military, and public events that emphasi