Northern Cyprus Republic Day — History and Event Program
The Republic Day of Northern Cyprus is the main national holiday of the TRNC, celebrated annually on November 15. It commemorates the proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983. Do not confuse this holiday with Turkish Republic Day, which is celebrated on October 29.
History of the Republic Day of Northern Cyprus
On November 15, 1983, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was proclaimed in Nicosia. This event marked the end of long-standing political conflicts, the events of 1974, and the process of establishing the Turkish-Cypriot autonomy.
The TRNC is recognized only by Turkey, but annual celebrations involve representatives of the Turkish government, diplomatic delegations, public organizations, and educational institutions. In Ankara, an official reception is held on this day, while celebrations take place across all districts in Northern Cyprus.
Republic Day Celebration Events in 2025
The 42nd anniversary of the TRNC proclamation began on November 14 with a speech by President Tufan Erhürman on BRTK TV and 21 artillery salutes. This was followed by memorial ceremonies at the Dr. Fazıl Küçük (3:00 PM) and Rauf Raif Denktaş (3:30 PM) monuments.
In the evening of November 14 in Gazimağusa, the traditional Fener Alayı — a festive torchlight procession from DAÜ Çemberi to İsmet İnönü Boulevard (in front of Macro AVM) — took place.
Main Events on November 15
The main program on November 15 includes:
- 08:45 — Reception of congratulations at the President’s Office.
- 09:30 — Wreath-laying at Atatürk Anıtı in Lefkoşa.
- 10:00 — Official parade on Dr. Fazıl Küçük Boulevard:
- Flag handover from Lefke and Erenköy;
- Speeches by President Tufan Erhürman and the Turkish representative;
- Mehteran Birliği concert by the Turkish Ministry of National Defense;
- Parade of military, student, and public organizations.
After the parade, celebrations continue in Girne — performances at Atatürk Anıtı on the waterfront, and from 14:45 to 17:00, the "Gençlik Dairesi Cumhuriyet Şöleni" takes place between the old Girne Municipality Building, Girne Atatürk Anıtı, and Girne Ancient Harbor.
At 19:00 in the evening, an official festive reception is held at the President’s Office.
The full program for 2025 by district, including traffic restrictions, is available at the link:
Frequently Asked Questions About Holidays in Northern Cyprus
What other public holidays are observed in the TRNC?
The TRNC observes its own national holidays as well as holidays of Turkey. These include Turkish Republic Day, Victory Day, Atatürk Memorial Day, and others. The full list is available here: official TRNC holidays
How to find out about upcoming events in Northern Cyprus?
You can follow holiday events through our Telegram channel and news section:
If you prefer a visual format, follow our Instagram.
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