Republic of Turkey Day in Northern Cyprus

Republic Day of Turkey is officially celebrated annually in Northern Cyprus on October 29 and is a public holiday. In 2025 (the 102nd anniversary), the main ceremonies began in the morning: in Nicosia at 09:30 at the Atatürk Monument, followed by a procession along Dereboyu at 14:30. In the districts of Northern Cyprus, the program typically includes wreath-laying, a minute of silence, and the national anthem, followed by parades, orchestral concerts, and city events.

• History of the holiday
• 2025 Program
• Frequently Asked Questions

History of the holiday

On October 29, 1923, the leader of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, declared the country a republic, in honor of which the national holiday—Republic Day—was established. In fact, Turkey became a republic as early as April 23, 1920, after the creation of the Grand National Assembly, the country's highest legislative body. However, the official announcement that Turkey was a republic was made only three and a half years later—on October 29, 1923, the country was officially named the Republic of Turkey (in Turkish — "Türkiye Cumhuriyeti"). From that same day, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk became the first President of the Republic of Turkey.

2025 Program

In 2025, Republic Day of Turkey in Northern Cyprus was celebrated on October 29, 2025. In addition to district ceremonies, the day's program included common festive elements: official speeches, parades, orchestral concerts, and specific events for residents and guests.

Below are the program highlights for 2025 by cities and districts.

Nicosia

The ceremony began at 09:30 at the Atatürk Monument with wreath-laying, a minute of silence, and the playing of the national anthem. In the afternoon at 14:30, a procession took place along Dereboyu.

Famagusta

The holiday was marked by two ceremonies: the first began at 11:30 at the Victory Monument (Zafer Anıtı) and was accompanied by a parade toward Namık Kemal Square. The second part of the program started at 11:55 at Namık Kemal Square and included an orchestral concert, speeches, and city activities.

Girne

The ceremony at the Atatürk Monument began at 14:00. This was followed by a parade (cortège) at 15:00, after which a military band concert was held.

Güzelyurt

Events started at 11:30 at the Atatürk Monument and continued with a city parade accompanied by an orchestra.

İskele

The ceremony began at 08:45 at the Atatürk Monument and included the official part (wreaths, minute of silence, anthem), followed by a concert and performances.

Lefke

The program began with a parade at 09:15, followed by a ceremony at the Atatürk Monument at 09:40.

Mehmetçik, Akdoğan, and Geçitkale

In these settlements, ceremonies took place in the morning, starting around 09:00 at monuments/squares with an official part and speeches.

Additional Events of 2025

• Official messages and ceremonial elements of the day were complemented by city activities and concerts across the districts.
• In 2025, visits to naval ships in ports were also conducted according to the schedule 10:00–12:00 and 14:00–16:00.

Frequently Asked Questions about Holidays in Northern Cyprus

What other public holidays are there in Northern Cyprus?

There are a total of 11 public holidays in Northern Cyprus that are official days off. Here is the full list.

Is this a day off in Northern Cyprus?

Yes. October 29 is an official holiday and a day off for government institutions, schools, and banks. Some private businesses (especially in tourist areas) may operate on a reduced schedule.

Does Republic Day of Northern Cyprus exist?

Yes, Republic Day of Northern Cyprus also exists and is celebrated as a public holiday with an official day off. It takes place on November 15. More about the holiday.

Are religious holidays celebrated in Northern Cyprus?

Yes, among the official holidays with a day off, religious dates are also observed. In 2026, official days off fall on Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayram) from March 20–22, 2026, and for Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayram) from May 27–30, 2026. The current calendar of all official holidays is compiled in the article: public and religious holidays in Northern Cyprus. If you need a detailed breakdown of Kurban Bayram, you can refer to the material: Kurban Bayram in Northern Cyprus.

Where can I see the current event program closer to October 29?

The schedule for cities and districts is usually published closer to the date. It is convenient to follow announcements in our news channel.