Constitution Day in Slovakia
Celebrated as a public holiday in Slovakia every year on September 1st, Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of the Slovak Constitution in 1992. Also known as “Deň Ústavy Slovenskej Republiky” or “Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic” in Slovakia, this holiday is celebrated across the country with a variety of celebrations.
Slovakia (National holiday)Bratislava Castle and the Slovak Parliament are open to the public on this day, and throughout the country, there are parades and festivals featuring traditional singing and folk dancing. It’s a day off for the general population, and many non-essential government offices, schools, and businesses are closed.
The History of Constitution Day in Slovakia
On September 3rd, 1992, the Slovak Constitution was officially signed in the Knight’s Hall at Bratislava Castle by Prime Minister Vladimir Mečiar and Speaker of the House Ivan Gašparovič. This constitution had to be created quickly, and many parts of it were taken from the 1920 Czechoslovakian Constitution. The constitution marked the end of Czechoslovakia, and afterward, the Slovak and Czech Republics became separate entities on January 1st, 1993.
Slovakia’s Constitution consists of a Preamble and nine Chapters. It sets out the fundamental rights and freedoms of the populace, as well as the rights of ethnic minorities, and social, economic, and political rights. It also establishes the separation of powers as one of the most basic rules of law.
Observing Constitution Day in Slovakia
This holiday is celebrated throughout Slovakia with much pomp and fanfare. There are official ceremonies at Bratislava Castle, parades, folk dances, and other special events. There’s plenty of folk singing and dancing, and as a public holiday, it’s a day off for the general public. It’s also a day when many businesses, government offices, and schools are closed.
Slovakia (National holiday)
