Independence Day 2025 in Sri Lanka

A celebration of the day that Sri Lanka was no longer a colony

Dates: February 4

Sri Lanka gained Independence from Great Britain in 1948. Since then, February 4 has been celebrated all over the country, especially in the capital.

Celebration Highlights

In Colombo, the President personally raises the national flag and delivers a speech alongside other prominent public figures. The official ceremony is followed by an impressive military parade and cultural showcase held at Independence Square in Colombo.

The parade is a display of the nation's strength, with personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and Civil Defense Force, who demonstrate their dedication to the country's security and well-being. In addition to the military displays, the cultural show features performances that celebrate Sri Lanka's rich diversity, with traditional dances, music, and songs representing the various ethnic groups and regions of the island.

Tea, Dance, and Festivity

During the celebration, both locals and travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sounds of Sri Lankan music, accompanied by colorful and expressive dance routines. Visitors can also savor a variety of traditional Sri Lankan foods and teas. These offerings often highlight staples of the local diet, such as fruits and legumes, while tea—a major export and an integral part of Sri Lankan culture—takes center stage.

Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green, located in the heart of Colombo, is a vast open space where thousands of people gather to experience the vibrant Independence Day celebrations. It serves as a prime location to view the spectacular fireworks display while enjoying the festive atmosphere with friends, families, and fellow citizens. The area becomes a lively hub of activity, offering a perfect vantage point to soak in the energy of the festivities.

Independence Day provides a wonderful chance to experience the very best of Sri Lankan culture in all its vibrancy and splendor. It is celebrated not only within Sri Lanka but also by Sri Lankan diaspora communities in countries like Australia, Canada, Germany, Singapore, and the United States.