End of World War I-related observances:
Armistice Day(France, Belgium andSerbia), National Independence Day (Poland), commemorates the anniversary of Poland's assumption of independent statehood in 1918, Remembrance Day(United Kingdom and theCommonwealth of Nations, including Australia and Canada), Veterans Day, called Armistice Day until 1954, when it was rededicated to honor American military (Army, Navy, Marine, and Air Force) veterans. (United States)
Commemorations marking the end of World War I and honoring those who served in the Great War.
On November 11th, nations worldwide observe the armistice that ended fighting in World War I in 1918. In France, Belgium, and Serbia, Armistice Day ceremonies feature wreath-laying at war memorials and moments of silence to honor the fallen. Poland celebrates its National Independence Day, marking the restoration of sovereignty. The United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries hold Remembrance Day services, with poppies symbolizing remembrance. The United States marks Veterans Day, honoring all military veterans. These solemn observances blend historical remembrance with national pride and respect for peace.
Armistice Day
Serbia
National Independence Day (Poland)
Remembrance Day
Commonwealth of Nations
Veterans Day
Independence Day, celebrates the independence ofAngolafrom Portugal in 1975.
Angola’s national holiday celebrating its independence from Portugal in 1975.
Independence Day in Angola on November 11th commemorates the country’s liberation from Portuguese colonial rule in 1975. Festivities include military parades, cultural performances showcasing Angolan music and dance, and official speeches reflecting on national identity. Citizens participate in community events, sporting matches, and gatherings at public squares. The day highlights Angola’s journey to sovereignty and its aspirations for unity and development. Schools and institutions organize exhibitions on independence history, fostering national pride among younger generations.
Independence Day
Angola
Independence of Cartagena(Colombia)
A regional celebration marking Cartagena’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1811.
Every November 11th, the city of Cartagena, Colombia, commemorates its 1811 declaration of independence from Spain. Colorful parades wind through the historic walled city, with participants in colonial-era costumes reenacting revolutionary events. Folk music, dance performances, and fireworks light up the night sky. Local artisans display traditional crafts and cuisine in street markets. The day fosters local pride, honors the city’s pivotal role in Colombia’s independence movement, and invites visitors to experience Cartagena’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Independence of Cartagena
Colombia
Lāčplēsis Day, celebrates the victory over theBermontiansat the Battle of Riga in 1919. (Latvia)
Latvia’s national remembrance of the 1919 Battle of Riga victory over Bermontian forces.
On November 11th, Lāčplēsis Day honors the Latvian troops who defended Riga against Bermontian invaders in 1919 during the Latvian War of Independence. Ceremonies at Riga’s Freedom Monument include speeches, reenactments, and the laying of wreaths. Historical exhibitions and educational programs recount the battle’s significance in securing Latvia’s sovereignty. The day also celebrates the national epic hero Lāčplēsis, symbolizing courage and resilience. Schools and organizations hold special events to instill patriotic values in younger generations.
Lāčplēsis Day
Bermontians
Latvia
Republic Day (Maldives)
A national holiday marking the day the Maldives became a republic in 1968.
Republic Day on November 11th celebrates the Maldives’ transition from a monarchy to a republic in 1968. Government offices and schools close for patriotic ceremonies featuring flag hoisting, military parades, and cultural performances. Speeches by the President and dignitaries reflect on democratic values and national development. Public concerts and community events showcase Dhivehi music, dance, and crafts. The day reinforces national unity and the Maldives’ commitment to governance and social progress.
Republic Day (Maldives)
Armistice Day(France, Belgium andSerbia)
Marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I fighting on November 11, 1918, observed as a public holiday in France, Belgium, and Serbia.
Armistice Day commemorates the official end of hostilities in World War I at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. In France, Belgium, and Serbia, it is a national observance featuring ceremonies at war memorials and monuments. Citizens and officials lay wreaths of poppies and flowers to honor the fallen. A moment of silence is traditionally held at 11:00 AM to remember those who lost their lives in the conflict. The day reinforces themes of peace, reconciliation, and the impact of global warfare on national histories.
Armistice Day
Serbia
Remembrance Day(United Kingdom and theCommonwealth of Nations, including Australia and Canada)
Honors members of the armed forces who died in war, observed with a two-minute silence at 11 AM on November 11 across the UK and Commonwealth nations.
Remembrance Day commemorates military personnel who sacrificed their lives in conflicts, particularly World War I. At 11:00 AM, a nationwide two-minute silence is observed to pay tribute to the fallen. Poppies are worn as symbols of remembrance and hope, and wreaths are laid at war memorials by veterans, dignitaries, and community members. Services and parades take place in towns and cities throughout the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries such as Canada and Australia. Schools and public institutions often hold special assemblies to educate new generations about the cost of war and the value of peace.
Remembrance Day
Commonwealth of Nations
Veterans Day, called Armistice Day until 1954, when it was rededicated to honor American military (Army, Navy, Marine, and Air Force) veterans. (United States)
A federal holiday in the United States honoring military veterans, observed annually on November 11.
Originally known as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all American military veterans. Observances include parades, ceremonies at national cemeteries such as Arlington, and laying of wreaths by government officials. Many businesses offer discounts and free services to veterans as a gesture of gratitude. Schools and organizations host events to recognize the service and sacrifices of former service members. The day emphasizes respect for those who have defended the nation and underscores the ongoing contributions of veterans to American society.
Veterans Day