Independence Day is a very important public holiday in Malta. Celebrated annually on September 21st, it remembers the day in 1964 when Malta gained its freedom from British rule after almost 150 years. The signing of the Malta Independence Act by the British Parliament granted the nation its sovereignty, marking a pivotal moment in Maltese history.
The day is marked with a variety of festivities and traditional activities. The main commemorative events include a wreath-laying ceremony at the Independence Monument in Floriana, attended by the President of the Malta, major political figures and dignitaries. Open-air concerts and fireworks are quite common, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates across the islands.
However, it's not just about ceremonies and grand displays. People across Malta view this day with national pride and it's an opportunity for them to contemplate their country’s journey. Schools and other educational institutions explain the significance of the Independence Day, teaching younger generations about their heritage. As a result, Independence Day enforces the Maltese's pride in their country and stresses the importance of standing up for their rights.