Independence Day of Ukraine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Independence DayДень незалежності |
|
|---|---|
2013 celebrations in Luhansk
|
|
| Observed by | Ukraine |
| Type | National |
| Significance | The day the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Supreme Soviet in 1991 |
| Celebrations | Concerts, military parade |
| Date | August 24 |
| Next time | 24 August 2025 |
| Frequency | annual |
Independence Day of Ukraine (Ukrainian: День незалежності України) is the most important national holiday in Ukraine. It is celebrated every year on August 24. This day remembers when Ukraine officially declared itself an independent country in 1991.
Before 1991, Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union. On August 24, 1991, the Ukrainian parliament, called the Verkhovna Rada, passed the Act of Declaration of Independence of Ukraine. This meant Ukraine was now a free and separate country. Later, on December 1, 1991, the people of Ukraine voted in a special election called a referendum to confirm this decision. Almost everyone voted "yes" for independence!
The holiday was first celebrated on July 16, 1991. This was the anniversary of an earlier step towards independence, the Declaration of State Sovereignty of Ukraine. But after the full Declaration of Independence on August 24 and the referendum, the date of the holiday was changed to August 24. Since 2004, the day before, August 23, is celebrated as the Day of the National Flag.
Contents
What is Independence Day?
Independence Day is a time for Ukrainians to celebrate their freedom and national pride. It marks the day Ukraine became its own country, separate from other nations. This holiday is a chance to remember the long journey Ukraine took to become independent. It also honors the people who worked hard for this freedom.
How Ukraine Became Independent
For many years, Ukraine was not an independent country. It was part of larger empires and states, including the Soviet Union. However, the Ukrainian people always wanted to have their own country. They worked for many years to achieve this goal.
In the late 1980s, the Soviet Union started to change. This gave Ukraine a chance to push for its independence. Many people joined together to demand freedom and self-rule. They held protests and rallies, showing their desire for a separate country.
The Declaration and Referendum
On August 24, 1991, a very important event happened. The Ukrainian parliament voted to declare Ukraine an independent state. This was a huge step for the country. It meant Ukraine would no longer be controlled by the Soviet Union.
To make sure everyone agreed, a referendum was held on December 1, 1991. In this vote, the people of Ukraine had their say. They voted overwhelmingly to support the Declaration of Independence. This showed that the people truly wanted Ukraine to be a free country. This vote made Ukraine's independence official and recognized by the world.
Celebrating Independence Day
Independence Day is a day of big celebrations across Ukraine. People often gather for concerts and special events. In the capital city of Kyiv, there are often large military parades. These parades show off Ukraine's strength and its commitment to defending its freedom.
Families and friends also celebrate together. Many people wear traditional Ukrainian clothing or colors. They might attend festivals or watch fireworks displays. It is a day filled with joy and a strong sense of national unity. It reminds everyone of the importance of their country's freedom.
Images for kids
-
Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations in Toronto, Canada
-
The March of Defenders during independence day 2019, featuring the UPA battle flag.
.jpg)
See also
In Spanish: Día de la Independencia de Ucrania para niños
