Independence Day Events 2025 in Maldives

Colorful parades, flag hoisting ceremonies, schoolchildren's performances, festive processions, and plenty of other events hit the Maldives on July 26th, the day when the country celebrates its independence. Maldives declared its freedom from the United Kingdom back in 1965, yet they had come a long way to go to achieve that goal. It began as a British protectorate in 1887, followed by the short-lived First Republic of Maldives, which emerged in 1953. Six years later, some atolls separated from the sultanate and founded the United Suvadive Republic, which finally capitulated and the country rejoined in the form its known today.

Independence Day Parades in Male

Nowadays, the national holiday is widely celebrated throughout the islands, and the capital city of Male naturally hosts the most significant festival. Its highlights include parades by the National Cadet Corps and the National Security Services, followed by various processions, exhibiting modern themes and traditional values. All these parades are usually enacted by children wearing vibrant clothes. The main event is the impressive Maldives Defense Force Parade, which usually departs from Independence Square.

Fireworks & Entertainment at Maldives Stadium

The celebration normally kicks off the day prior, on July 25th, with the entertainment program at the Maldives National Football Stadium, which usually begins at 7 pm. The culmination of the evening is the fireworks display, which lights up the sky over the islands. On July 26th, the flag-raising ceremony takes place at the stadium in the early morning and is followed by music performances and concerts in the evening. The celebration is completed by a magnificent fireworks show.

Public Holiday in Maldives

Independence Day in the Maldives was given incredible significance and has been declared a national public holiday. Most Maldivians are allowed to stay at home and celebrate this feast with their loved ones.