Eritrea’s Independence Day is a significant holiday that commemorates the freedom this African nation achieved from Ethiopian rule. The day is celebrated annually on May 24, which marks the end of the over thirty-year-long Eritrean Struggle for Independence. The war, which was punctuated by fierce battles and untold suffering, ended in 1991 when the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF) defeated Ethiopian forces.
On this day, across the length and breadth of Eritrea, people partake in various festive activities to celebrate the historical victory. Independence Day is marked by vibrant parades, music and dance performances, poetry recitals, art exhibitions, carnivals, and fireworks. The Eritrean capital, Asmara, is the focal point of these exciting activities with the grand celebration often lasts for several days.
For Eritreans, Independence Day is more than just a holiday; it is a day of solemn remembrance and intense joy. It represents the triumph of the Eritrean spirit in the face of adversity, reflects the unity of its people, and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to secure their sovereignty. Above all, the holiday asserts the pride and resilience of the Eritrean people as they honor the past and look forward to their nation's future.