National Day, also known as Independence Day, is a Sri Lankan national holiday celebrated annually on 4th of February to commemorate the country’s political independence from British rule in 1948. It is celebrated all over the country through a flag-hoisting ceremony, dances, parades and performances.
The celebrations continues with official ceremonies and military parades. The main celebrations take place in the largest city, Colombo, where the President hoists the national flag and delivers a speech which is nationally televised.
In the speech, the President highlights the achievements of the government during the past year, raises important issues and requests the people to join together in commemorating this historic day. The President also pays tribute to the national heroes of Sri Lanka, observing two minutes of silence in their memory.
In addition to celebrating its independence, the National Day is also a day of remembrance for Sri Lanka’s national heroes, past and present. During the presidential address, two minutes of silence is observed in tribute to these heroes.
