August 15

Holidays & Observances - National & Public Holidays

Armed Forces Day (Poland)

Armed Forces Day in Poland honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Polish military. It marks the anniversary of the 1920 Battle of Warsaw during the Polish-Soviet War. The day is celebrated with parades, ceremonies, and military displays across the country.
Armed Forces Day in Poland, known as Święto Wojska Polskiego, is observed on August 15 each year to commemorate the decisive victory in the Battle of Warsaw in 1920. The holiday was established in 1992 and reflects Poland’s deep respect for its military traditions and history. Across major cities, especially in Warsaw, the day features large-scale military parades, air shows, and exhibitions of historical and modern military equipment. High-ranking officials, including the President and Defense Minister, attend ceremonies at military cemeteries and memorial sites to lay wreaths. Civilians also join in by honoring veterans, visiting military museums, and participating in patriotic events. Local units of the Polish Army often open their barracks to the public for guided tours and demonstrations. Schools and community organizations hold educational programs highlighting the role of the armed forces in maintaining national sovereignty. The day serves as a reminder of Poland’s resilience and the sacrifices made by its soldiers throughout history.
Armed Forces Day (Poland)

Constitution Day (Equatorial Guinea)

Constitution Day in Equatorial Guinea commemorates the adoption of the country's constitution. It celebrates the foundation of the nation’s legal and governmental framework. Citizens observe the day with official ceremonies and civic events.
Constitution Day in Equatorial Guinea is celebrated annually on August 15 to mark the referendum that approved the nation’s constitution. First adopted in 1982, the constitution established the legal basis for government institutions and citizens’ rights. The day is observed with speeches by government leaders, educational programs in schools, and exhibitions highlighting the country’s constitutional history. Public buildings are often adorned with flags and national symbols, and civic associations host debates and forums on constitutional matters. In Malabo and other cities, citizens participate in community gatherings, cultural performances, and theatrical reenactments of historic events. The holiday reinforces national unity and encourages public engagement with democratic governance. It offers an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the evolution of Equatorial Guinea’s political system. Constitution Day underscores the importance of law and the rule of law in strengthening the nation’s institutions.
Constitution Day (Equatorial Guinea)

Independence Day, celebrates the independence ofKoreafromJapanin 1945:

Gwangbokjeol, "Independence Day" (South Korea), Jogukhaebangui nal, "Fatherland Liberation Day" (North Korea)

Independence Day in Korea celebrates liberation from Japanese colonial rule on August 15, 1945. Known as Gwangbokjeol in South Korea and Jogukhaebangui nal in North Korea. The day is marked by patriotic ceremonies, flag-raising, and cultural events.
Independence Day on August 15 commemorates Korea’s liberation from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule at the end of World War II in 1945. In South Korea, it is called Gwangbokjeol, meaning “Restoration of Light Day,” and is celebrated with solemn flag-raising ceremonies, presidential addresses, and fireworks displays. Major landmarks such as Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul host cultural performances, concerts, and traditional music showcases. In North Korea, the holiday is observed as Jogukhaebangui nal with state-led events, parades, and speeches extolling national unity and socialist achievements. Across the peninsula and within the global Korean diaspora, communities commemorate the day with exhibitions on independence movements, educational programs, and wreath-laying at memorials. Schools and civic groups organize discussions on Korea’s modern history and the significance of self-determination. Families gather to remember their ancestors’ struggles and to celebrate the enduring spirit of the Korean people. Independence Day remains a cornerstone of national identity and a reminder of Korea’s resilience and hope for peaceful reunification.
Independence Day Korea Japan Gwangbokjeol South Korea Jogukhaebangui nal North Korea

Independence Day, celebrates the independence ofIndiafrom the United Kingdom in 1947.

India’s Independence Day on August 15 marks the end of British colonial rule in 1947. The day is celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural programs nationwide. It symbolizes India’s unity and democratic ideals.
India’s Independence Day is observed annually on August 15 to commemorate the country’s freedom from British rule in 1947. The main celebration takes place in New Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers an address to the nation. Across the country, state governors and local officials conduct flag-raising ceremonies, followed by cultural performances showcasing India’s diverse traditions. Schools, colleges, and community organizations host patriotic events, art competitions, and award ceremonies honoring contributions to society. The day is marked by the widespread illumination of buildings, public spaces, and landmarks in the tri-color of the Indian flag. Streets come alive with parades featuring marching bands, folk dancers, and displays of technological achievements and social initiatives. Citizens pay tribute to freedom fighters and reflect on the ideals of democracy, secularism, and social justice enshrined in India’s constitution. Independence Day fosters national pride and reinforces the spirit of unity in diversity that defines modern India.
Independence Day India

Independence Day, celebrates the independence of theRepublic of the Congofrom France in 1960.

Independence Day in the Republic of the Congo commemorates independence from France on August 15, 1960. The nation celebrates with official ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances. It highlights Congolese sovereignty and national pride.
Republic of the Congo Independence Day, observed on August 15, marks the nation’s declaration of independence from French colonial rule in 1960. Celebrations begin with a military parade in the capital, Brazzaville, featuring the armed forces, civil services, and youth organizations. Government officials and dignitaries attend flag-raising ceremonies and deliver speeches emphasizing national unity and development goals. Throughout the day, communities participate in folk dance performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Congo. Public squares are decorated with flags and banners, and traditional Congolese cuisine is enjoyed at communal feasts. Schools hold special assemblies and instruct students about the struggle for independence and the contributions of national heroes. Media broadcasts documentaries and programs reflecting on the country’s post-independence progress and challenges. The holiday fosters a sense of shared identity and optimism for the future of the nation.
Independence Day Republic of the Congo

National Day(Liechtenstein)

Liechtenstein’s National Day on August 15 celebrates the principality’s heritage and the feast of the Assumption of Mary. It features speeches by the Prince, fireworks, and community gatherings. The day honors national identity and unity.
Liechtenstein National Day is held on August 15 to coincide with the Catholic Feast of the Assumption of Mary, a tradition dating back to 1703. The celebration begins with citizens decorating their homes and businesses with the national flag in red and blue. In the capital, Vaduz, the reigning Prince and members of the Princely Family deliver an evening speech, followed by an open-air concert and a spectacular fireworks display. Local communities organize barbecues, folk dancing, and visits to historical sites, fostering a strong sense of local pride and togetherness. Schoolchildren often participate in art and essay competitions on national history and civic responsibility. Churches hold special services to honor the Assumption, blending religious observance with patriotic sentiment. The holiday underscores Liechtenstein’s unique blend of monarchy, tradition, and modern democratic governance. National Day offers residents an opportunity to celebrate their small but vibrant nation in the heart of Europe.
National Day Liechtenstein

National Day of Mourning (Bangladesh)

The National Day of Mourning in Bangladesh commemorates the assassination of the nation’s founding leader on August 15, 1975. It is a day of solemn remembrance and reflection. Citizens observe with memorial services and moments of silence.
Bangladesh’s National Day of Mourning is observed on August 15 to honor Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation’s founding President, and his family, who were assassinated in 1975. Government buildings, public institutions, and homes lower their flags to half-mast as a mark of respect. Ceremonies are held at the Central Shaheed Minar and other memorial sites, where officials and citizens lay wreaths and offer prayers. Current leaders deliver speeches reflecting on Rahman’s contributions to Bangladesh’s independence and development. Educational programs, documentaries, and newspaper articles recount the political history surrounding the tragic events and their impact on national governance. Families of the martyrs receive state honors, and community organizations host discussions on the importance of unity and democratic values. The day serves both as a remembrance of national loss and a reaffirmation of commitments to peace and progress. Through quiet reflection and public homage, Bangladeshis pay tribute to the legacy of their founding leader.
National Day of Mourning (Bangladesh)

Feast day of theAssumption of Mary, one of theCatholicholy days of obligation(a public holiday inAustria,Belgium,Benin,Bosnia,Burundi,Cameroon,Chile,Colombia,Croatia,Cyprus,France, some states inGermany,Greece,Guatemala,Italy,Ivory Coast,Lebanon,Liechtenstein,Lithuania,Luxembourg,Madagascar,Malta,Mauritius,Paraguay,Poland,Portugal,Romania,Senegal,Seychelles,Slovenia,Spain,Switzerland,Togo, andVanuatu); and its related observances:

Feast of theDormition of the Theotokos(Eastern Orthodox,Oriental OrthodoxandEastern Catholic Churches), Ferragosto(Italy), Lady's Day(Ireland), Māras(Latvia), Mother's Day(AntwerpandCosta Rica), National Acadian Day(Acadians), Navy Day(Romania), Virgin of Candelaria, patron of theCanary Islands. (Tenerife,Spain)

The Assumption of Mary celebrates the Virgin's ascent into heaven, observed by Catholics worldwide with solemn masses and processions.
The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15 is one of the most important holy days of obligation in the Catholic Church. It commemorates the belief that Mary was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life. In many countries, this day is a public holiday and is celebrated with vibrant processions, church services, and community festivals. Italy observes Ferragosto, a secular holiday introduced by Emperor Augustus, coinciding with Assumption and marked by parades and seafood feasts. Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches celebrate the Dormition of the Theotokos with liturgies focused on Mary's peaceful death and resurrection. Other observances include Lady's Day in Ireland, Latvia's Māras, Mother's Day in Costa Rica and Antwerp, Romania's Navy Day, and Tenerife's Virgin of Candelaria festival.
Assumption of Mary Catholic holy days of obligation Austria Belgium Benin Bosnia Burundi Cameroon Chile Colombia Croatia Cyprus France Germany Greece Guatemala Italy Ivory Coast Lebanon Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Madagascar Malta Mauritius Paraguay Poland Portugal Romania Senegal Seychelles Slovenia Spain Switzerland Togo Vanuatu Dormition of the Theotokos Eastern Orthodox Oriental Orthodox Eastern Catholic Churches Ferragosto Italy Lady's Day Ireland Māras Latvia Mother's Day Antwerp Costa Rica National Acadian Day Acadians Navy Day Romania Virgin of Candelaria Canary Islands Tenerife Spain

Ferragosto(Italy)

Ferragosto is an Italian public holiday on August 15 marking the Catholic Feast of the Assumption and a celebration of summer rest and festivities.
Ferragosto traces its origins to the ancient Roman festival of Feriae Augusti established by Emperor Augustus in 18 BCE. Over time it merged with the Catholic Feast of the Assumption of Mary, making it both a cultural and religious observance. Today, it marks the peak of summer in Italy, when businesses close and families head to seaside resorts or mountain retreats. Many towns host street fairs, music concerts, and fireworks displays throughout the day. Traditional foods like cold salads, grilled meats, and local wines are shared at family gatherings. Ferragosto embodies a national spirit of relaxation, community, and celebration under the summer sun.
Ferragosto Italy

Gwangbokjeol, "Independence Day" (South Korea)

Gwangbokjeol on August 15 is South Korea’s National Liberation Day, celebrating freedom from Japanese colonial rule in 1945 with ceremonies and public events.
Gwangbokjeol, literally 'Restoration of Light Day,' commemorates Korea's liberation from 35 years of Japanese occupation on August 15, 1945. It was first celebrated in 1949 and reestablished after the Korean War's end in 1953 as a national holiday. Official observances include flag-raising ceremonies at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, visits to independence memorials, and televised speeches by the President. Citizens decorate streets with the national flag (Taegukgi) and attend concerts, parades, and cultural festivals highlighting Korean heritage. Schools and government offices close, allowing families to participate in community events and reflect on the struggle for sovereignty. Gwangbokjeol inspires national pride and remembrance of those who fought for freedom.
Gwangbokjeol South Korea

Jogukhaebangui nal, "Fatherland Liberation Day" (North Korea)

Fatherland Liberation Day in North Korea commemorates the nation’s liberation from Japanese rule on August 15 with mass rallies and military parades.
Known in Korean as Jogukhaebangui nal, this day marks the end of Japanese colonial occupation in 1945, paralleling South Korea's Gwangbokjeol. Celebrations in Pyongyang feature grand military parades showcasing the Korean People's Army's strength and ideological devotion. Citizens gather in Kim Il Sung Square to hear speeches praising the leadership and revolutionary achievements. Public performances of mass dances, fireworks, and drum displays underscore themes of national unity and resistance. Monuments to anti-Japanese heroes receive floral tributes from high-ranking officials and citizens alike. The holiday reinforces state narratives of liberation under the party's guidance and the enduring spirit of the Korean revolution.
Jogukhaebangui nal North Korea

End-of-war Memorial Day, when theNational Memorial Service for War Deadis held (Japan)

An annual memorial day observed on August 15 in Japan with the National Memorial Service for War Dead held in Tokyo to honor and remember the war dead.
End-of-war Memorial Day marks the anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II on August 15, 1945. On this day, the government holds the National Memorial Service for War Dead at Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, attended by members of the imperial family, the prime minister, and bereaved families. The ceremony offers prayers for those who lost their lives in the war and reflects on the importance of peace. Established in 1952, the service underscores Japan’s commitment to remembering its wartime past and promoting reconciliation. Participants release white chrysanthemums and observe a moment of silence at 11:00 AM. The event is broadcast nationwide, allowing citizens across Japan to join in mourning and contemplation. End-of-war Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the costs of conflict and the value of lasting peace.
End-of-war Memorial Day National Memorial Service for War Dead Japan