Cumhuriyet Bayramı or Republic Day 2025 in Istanbul

Republic Day, known as Cumhuriyet Bayramı in Turkish, is celebrated annually on October 29th to mark the founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923. This national holiday is regarded as the most significant in Turkey, commemorating the declaration of the Republic and the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. According to the organizers, Republic Day festivities are a time of national pride and unity, with events and celebrations taking place across the country.

Activities and Celebrations

Republic Day celebrations are grand and vibrant, featuring a variety of activities that highlight Turkey's cultural heritage and national identity. Cities across Turkey host traditional parades with musical bands, flags, and vibrant displays of fireworks in the evening. As the organizers claim, Turkish children take great delight in performing for parents and teachers in school presentations that include traditional dances, theater sketches, and poetry readings. Many people also gather in stadiums to watch performances dedicated to the Republic.

In addition to these events, people pay homage to the founder of the Turkish Republic by visiting monuments to Atatürk or traveling to his mausoleum in Ankara. According to the organizers, this day is an opportunity for Turks to express their gratitude and respect for Atatürk's leadership and vision.

Schedule and Program

Republic Day officially begins on the afternoon of October 28 and extends through October 29. Celebrations typically start with ceremonial events and parades during the day, followed by torchlight processions and musical performances in the evening. The day ends with impressive firework displays. Public speeches by politicians may also be part of the program, emphasizing the significance of the Republic and its values.

Tickets

As Republic Day is a national holiday, many events are free to the public. Public transportation is often free on Republic Day, allowing easy access to various festivities. However, attendees are advised to check local schedules and routes, as public transport routes may change due to street parades and processions.

History

The history of Turkish Republic Day dates back to the aftermath of World War I when the Ottoman Empire faced partitioning by the Allies. An uprising led by Turkish nationalists resulted in the War of Independence (1919-1923), culminating in Turkey's victory and the establishment of the Republic. On October 29, 1923, the Turkish parliament proclaimed the new Republic, and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was appointed as its first president.

Since its inception, Republic Day has been a symbol of national unity and a celebration of Turkey's transformation into a modern, secular state. According to historical accounts, the first celebration was marked by a 101-gun salute, and the tradition of honoring this day has continued to grow over the years.