Day of Social Resistance in Northern Cyprus

On August 1st, Northern Cyprus celebrates the Day of Social Resistance — one of the official holidays annually observed in the TRNC.

• History of the Holiday
• How This Day is Celebrated in the TRNC
• Day of Social Resistance 2024
• Frequently Asked Questions About Holidays in Northern Cyprus

History of the Holiday

This day marks three events that are believed to have ultimately led to the current status of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus:

• the conquest of Cyprus by the Ottoman Empire in 1571;
• the establishment of the Turkish Resistance Organization in 1958;
• the establishment of the Security Forces Command in 1976.

How This Day is Celebrated in the TRNC

Commemorative and sports events are held in the main areas of major cities in Northern Cyprus — Nicosia, Famagusta, Kyrenia, and others. The main ceremonies take place at the Martyrs' Monument in Nicosia.

The Commander of the Security Forces and military officials, as well as various associations, institutions, and organizations, participate in the ceremonial events.

Day of Social Resistance 2024

In 2024, Northern Cyprus celebrates the 453rd anniversary of the conquest of Cyprus by the Ottoman Empire, the 66th anniversary of the establishment of the Turkish Resistance Organization, and the 48th anniversary of the establishment of the Security Forces Command.

Program for the Day of Social Resistance 2024

• All martyrs' cemeteries in the TRNC will be open for visits from July 22nd until the holiday itself on August 1st.
• On August 1st, a 16-kilometer endurance race will take place in Bogazkoy, starting at 06:00 from the Security Forces Headquarters and ending in front of the Turkish Resistance Organization’s Mujahideen Association building.
• At 9:30 in Nicosia and all district centers, wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at Ataturk monuments. At 10:30, flowers will be laid at the Nicosia Martyrs' Monument, and at 12:00 at the monument in Republic Park.
• On August 1st at 20:00, a reception will be held in the garden of the command headquarters to mark the anniversary of the establishment of the Security Forces Command.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holidays in Northern Cyprus

Is the Day of Social Resistance a public holiday?

Yes, the Day of Social Resistance is included in the list of official holidays in Northern Cyprus and is an official day off for government institutions. However, private businesses may choose to rest or work at their discretion, and there is no need to worry about the functioning of grocery stores.

What are some similar holidays in the TRNC?

Northern Cyprus values commemorative dates related to independence or connections with Turkey, to the extent that some official Turkish holidays are also celebrated at the state level. Here are the main ones:

• Turkey's National Independence and Children's Day (April 23)
• Ataturk Memorial, Youth and Sports Day (May 19)
• Peace and Freedom Day (July 20)
• Victory Day (August 30)
• Republic Day of Turkey (October 29)
• Republic Day of Northern Cyprus (November 15)

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