Happy Independence Day Madagascar! (6/26/2011)

Madagascar Independence Day is a public holiday, which is observed on June 26 every year in the Republic of Madagascar. The entire population of the country celebrates this day as their national holiday. This day marks the declaration of independence from the French regime in 1960. Madagascar Independence Day is a no work day.

Background

The Republic of Madagascar is an island nation on the southeastern shores of the African continent. It has experienced major developments throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Encompassing a tactical position away from the southeastern seashores of the African continent, the island country traditionally turned into the aim of British and French colonizers. Eventually, the contest led to French settlement at the close of the 19th century. In 1942, at the Battle of Madagascar, British forces gained control of the country to prevent its capture by the Japanese forces, following which the Free French occupied the territory. It achieved complete freedom from the French settlers on June 26, 1960.

Independence and Republic

The Republic of Madagascar came into existence on June 26, 1960 once it achieved freedom from the French rule. The country's formation was assumed by a countrywide election on August 19, 1992.

Madagascar Independence Day Celebrations

Madagascar Independence Day is an event of enormous importance. It is observed on June 26 every year. The Malagasy citizens enjoy the festivities with delicious cuisine, dancing, and drinking. One of the displays of the occasion is a demonstration of "Hira Gasy". It is a melodious production of Malagasy myths. During this program, artists put on their most attractive conventional clothing and blend dances and songs with long-established fables from the country. This is merged with a narrator who stages every song with a bit of poems or a passage from a most popular fable.

During the festivities, schools, colleges, and businesses stay closed. Independence Day in Madagascar is the biggest event on the calendar of the country, which is celebrated on June 26 every year. The day is an enjoyable and captivating occasion. The observations are characterized by unlimited dining, drinking, and making merry. It is possibly the most significant day for the country to mark its independence achieved as a result of long-fought battles with the French forces. Display of firecrackers and a laser show are held at Lake Anosy on the opening day with an army march past and musical shows are organized at Mahamasina Stadium on the 2nd day. The majority of festivities happen in Antananarivo, the capital of the country. Independence Day is an important public holiday in Madagascar and is work-free.