Ankara Liberation Day is a significant holiday celebrated on October 13, honouring the liberation of the Turkish capital, Ankara, from enemy occupation during the Turkish War of Independence. It is an important day as it commemorates not only the liberation of the city but also marks the stepping stone towards the establishment of the new Turkish Republic. The holiday is distinctly celebrated in Ankara but is also remembered across all regions in Turkey.
It is an annual public holiday in the Ankara region (abbreviated as ANK), marked by a series of events. Schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed on this day. The celebrations encompass various cultural events such as concerts, parades, and fireworks, reflecting great nationalistic pride. It is a momentous day where the people of Ankara, and Turkey as a whole, honours the valiant struggles of their ancestors.
The name ‘Ankara Liberation Day’ stems from the decisive victory of Turkish forces led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey. This victory marked a turning point in the War of Independence, tipping the balance in favour of the Turkish National Movement. Today, the day serves as a reminder of the heroism that led to the liberation of their motherland. It reemphasizes the values of unity, independence, and the spirit of patriotism amongst the Turkish populace.