Homeland Thanksgiving Day
Homeland Thanksgiving Day is a state holiday observed annually on the 5th of August. This day commemorates the liberation of Knin in 1995, which ended the Republic of Serbian Krajina that had been a Serb territory in Croatia.
Croatia (National holiday)Shortly after this event, the War of Independence concluded on November 12th, and the Erdut Agreement was drawn up between the Republic of Croatia and the local Serb authorities of Baranja, Eastern Slavonia, and Western Syrmia. On this day, most celebrations are held in the city of Knin, with wreath-laying ceremonies and other events taking place across Croatia.
The History of Homeland Thanksgiving Day
During Operation Storm, the Croatian Army seized the city of Knin from Serbian forces on August 5th, 1995. This victory marked the end of the Republic of Serbian Krajina. The day has been celebrated as a holiday ever since, particularly in the city of Knin. This holiday is also known as “Dan pobjede i domovinske zahvalnosti i Dan hrvatskih branitelja,” or Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day and the Day of Croatian Defenders.
Interesting Facts About Knin
Below are a few facts about Knin that we learned while researching Homeland Thanksgiving Day.
- In the 9th century, a monastery dedicated to Saint Bartholomew was built in Knin.
- Knin is known as the City of Kings.
- The city has a population of approximately 11,000 people.
Observing Homeland Thanksgiving Day
In the city of Knin, thousands of people gather to watch the events that unfold on this day. One of the main events is a parade that travels down the busy streets. Another event is the flying of the national flag of Croatia, which is hoisted at the Knin Fortress located on Dinara Mountain near the Krka River.
Croatia (National holiday)
