What is Cyprus’s national holiday on 1 October, celebrating independence from British rule in 1960, called?

Cyprus’s national holiday on 1 October, celebrating independence from British rule in 1960, is called Cyprus Independence Day.

The Republic of Cyprus became independent on 16 August 1960, following agreements between Britain, Greece, and Turkey. The public celebration was later established on 1 October, which remains the country’s official Independence Day.

The main annual observance takes place in Nicosia and traditionally includes a military parade attended by state officials and foreign representatives. Schools, public buildings, and many homes display the Cypriot flag.

A common mix-up is confusing 1 October with 16 August, the date independence formally took effect. Cyprus also marks Greek Cypriot national and religious occasions, but those are separate from the republic’s Independence Day.