While “Independence Day” often brings to mind the image of fourth of July in the US – fireworks, barbecues, the works – this is certainly not a concept that is unique to the United States. After all, a great percentage of modern-day nations are former colonies. Thus, many countries all around the world have their own time of year and manner of commemorating their independence, and showing national pride.
Independence Day | Jordan
Jordan’s independence day celebrations revolve greatly around the royal family. People all over the country gather in the streets and wave photos of the king, in addition to performing traditional dances. There are royal ceremonies held at the palace, overseen by the royal family. Upon the king’s arrival at the palace, the Jordanian anthem is played, and F-16 fighter jets from the Royal Jordanian Air Force perform aerobatics to commemorate the creation of their kingdom. In addition, royal medals are presented to deserving individuals who have made a special effort for the progress of Jordan.
Independence Day | France
Called Bastille Day, the French are big on celebrating their independence day. They started the tradition of holding military parades to celebrate, a practice that has been adopted by many other countries.
As a quirky tradition, firefighters open the doors to their fire stations to the public to hold Firemen’s galas where there is dancing, drinking, and partying.
Independence Day | India
In India, people adorn their houses, offices, and schools with the colors of the flag. The national anthem is sung and people gather to watch the official flag-hoisting ceremony at the Red Fort in Delhi, which is broadcasted all over the country. As a symbol of freedom, kites of all shapes and colors are flown from rooftops, which makes for a sight to behold.
Independence Day | Costa Rica
Most Central American countries, including Costa Rica, celebrate their independence day on September 15th. In Costa Rica, the national anthem is sung everywhere, and many municipalities have their own local parades involving marching bands which are led by grade school students. Children and adults perform traditional dances in traditional clothing.
The day before, there is a procession specifically to showcase lit paper lanterns that students often decorate in school.
Indonesia
Indonesia has some fun traditions to celebrate their independence day. People participate in non-competitive sports such as panjat pinang, where people scale greasy palm trees in hopes of grabbing prizes at the top.
This game symbolizes the struggle of Indonesians to achieve their independence from the Dutch.
Iceland
In Iceland, following the chiming of all church bells in Reykjavik, there are parades held which go to a cemetery where the Chairman of the City Council lays flowers on the grave of Jon Sigurosson, the leader of Iceland’s independence from Denmark.
Iceland celebrates its independence with family oriented activities including puppet shows, circus shows, a concert, and a ball at City Hall. Overall, it’s a nation-wide celebration involving the riding of Icelandic horses, reciting of poems, and rainy weather.
Ghana
Ghana was the first African country south of the Sahara to become independent. To celebrate this act, Ghanaians have fireworks, traditional dance performances, and parades by security personnel as well as school children; all of these symbolize and celebrate the people who fought tirelessly for their hard-won independence from the British.
Thousands gather in the streets and celebrate their freedom with music and dance. In addition, there is a famous regatta competition that takes place in the fishing village of Shama.
Israel
Israel’s independence day is on the 5th of Iyar on the Hebrew Calendar; there is no fixed day on the Gregorian calendar. Celebrations are both secular and religious. Called Yom Ha’atzmaut, twelve torches are lit symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel. The honor of lighting them is given to twelve individuals who made significant contributions to society. There is also a well-known International Bible Quiz in which high school students are tested on their ability to memorize and understand the text. As with most other countries, Israel also celebrates with family gatherings, concerts, and the like. In addition, the Israeli Defense Forces open their doors to show off their military prowess.
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
Language Connections Inc.
2001 Beacon Street, Suite 105,
Boston, MA 02135
Phone: +1-617-731-3510
Email: service@languageconnections.com