Eritrea celebrates Independence Day on 24 May, commemorating the end of its armed struggle for independence from Ethiopia.
The Eritrean War of Independence lasted from 1961 until 1991. On 24 May 1991, Eritrean forces captured Asmara, a decisive event that ended Ethiopian control over most of the territory. Eritrea’s independence was later confirmed through a United Nations-observed referendum held in April 1993.
Celebrations are centered in Asmara and other Eritrean communities around the world. Events commonly include concerts, cultural performances, sporting activities, speeches, and displays of the Eritrean flag. The holiday is one of the country’s most important public occasions.
Eritrea’s Martyrs’ Day, observed on 20 June, is a separate commemoration honoring people who died during the independence struggle. Remembering that distinction helps prevent confusion between the military victory date and the national day dedicated to the fallen.