Restoration Of The Czech Independence Day
Observed annually on the 1st of January in the Czech Republic, the public holiday known as Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State commemorates the date in 1993 when Czechoslovakia split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Because of a law passed in 2016, this holiday is observed as a public holiday, and large stores must close, as must schools and government offices.
Czech Republic (National holiday)However, some smaller businesses may remain open on this day. This is a day when people all across the Czech Republic not only recover from New Year’s Eve festivities but also express their pride in their country.
The History of Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State
After WWI, Czechoslovakia emerged as a sovereign state but was briefly split before World War II. In 1948, the country came under Soviet rule. Twenty years later, it became a federation composed of the Czech Socialist Republic and the Slovak Socialist Republic.
After extensive negotiations between Czech and Slovak leaders, the stage was set for the two countries to separate. This happened in November 1992 when Czechoslovakia’s Federal Parliament voted to dissolve the country. On January 1, 1993, the country was dissolved into the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. This event would become known as the Velvet Divorce.
Observing Restoration Day of the Independent Czech State
This holiday is observed in various ways. Not only is the Flag of the Czech Republic raised on this day, but there are also competitions, sporting events, and concerts across the country.
It’s also a day when people send each other personalized New Year cards. And because this day follows New Year’s Eve, it’s traditionally a day of rest and for eating all the leftover lentils from New Year’s Eve dinner.
Czech Republic (National holiday)
