Atatürk Memorial, Youth and Sports Day in Northern Cyprus

Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day is celebrated annually on May 19. In Northern Cyprus, it is an official public holiday: government institutions are usually closed, and ceremonies, sports, and cultural events take place in cities. In 2026, the date falls on May 19, 2026 (Tuesday).

• History of Atatürk Commemoration Day
• Atatürk Commemoration Day in Northern Cyprus
• Frequently Asked Questions about the Holiday

One of Turkey's most important holidays is also widely celebrated in Northern Cyprus.

History of the Holiday

Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day is an annual Turkish national holiday celebrated on May 19 to commemorate Mustafa Kemal's landing in Samsun on May 19, 1919, which is considered the beginning of the Turkish War of Independence in official historiography.

What do youth and sports have to do with it? In 1916, the first Gymnastics Festival was held in Istanbul. The anthem of the festival was a rearranged Swedish folk song "Tre trallande jäntor," which became the Turkish march "Dağ Başını Duman Almış."

According to eyewitness accounts, when Atatürk and his army left Samsun in a victory march, everyone was singing this very song.

A notable fact: Atatürk was born in 1881, but his exact birth date is unknown. In one of his speeches, he declared that he considers May 19 his birthday, clearly referring to the start of the national struggle in 1919.

By Law No. 3466 of June 20, 1938, "May 19" was officially declared the Youth and Sports Festival.

Atatürk Commemoration Day in Northern Cyprus

On this day, young people (and others) sing the national anthem, recite poetry, hold parades and sports competitions, and organize cultural events such as folk dance performances.

Government representatives, military personnel, students, and citizens gather at monuments, public squares, and schools throughout Northern Cyprus to lay wreaths, observe moments of silence, and listen to speeches dedicated to Atatürk's contribution to the nation's development.

In the cities and towns of Northern Cyprus, flags, banners, and portraits of Atatürk can be seen before and on the day of the holiday, along with sports tournaments ranging from football and basketball to athletics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Atatürk Day a day off?

Yes. Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day is a day off and is included in the list of public holidays in Northern Cyprus.

When is Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day celebrated?

The holiday is celebrated annually on May 19.

What is usually closed on May 19 in Northern Cyprus?

On the public holiday, government offices are generally closed. Private companies, shops, and services may operate according to their own schedules.

Where do the main events take place?

Ceremonies and events are held throughout Northern Cyprus: at Atatürk monuments, in city squares, schools, and sports complexes.

Where can I find the official program of events for a specific year?

The program is usually published closer to the date of the holiday.

Where else is Atatürk Day celebrated?

It is considered an official holiday only in Turkey and Northern Cyprus. In some Turkic countries, such as Azerbaijan, festive events also take place. However, in Greece, May 19 is observed as the Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Greek Genocide.

What other Turkish holidays are celebrated in Northern Cyprus?

Besides Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day, Northern Cyprus also widely celebrates Turkish Republic Day and National Sovereignty and Children's Day.