Victory Day — history, traditions, and celebrations in Northern Cyprus
Many Turkish holidays are celebrated in Northern Cyprus, and one of them is Victory Day. This holiday holds special significance for Turkish history and national identity. It commemorates the decisive battle that ended the war and led to the formation of modern Turkey. In Northern Cyprus, this day is also celebrated with military parades and wreath-laying ceremonies in memory of the heroes.
History of the holiday
Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı) is celebrated in honor of the decisive victory of the Turkish army in the Battle of Dumlupınar, which was the final battle of the Greco-Turkish War of 1919–1922. The battle took place on August 30, 1922, and resulted in the ultimate defeat of the Greek forces in Asia Minor. This event became a turning point in the national liberation struggle of the Turkish people under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
After the victory, the Turkish army entered İzmir, which effectively marked the end of foreign occupation. The holiday was first celebrated on August 30, 1923, and received official status in 1926. Since then, this day has become a symbol of Turkey's independence, courage, and national unity.
How Victory Day is celebrated in the TRNC
Victory Day is observed across Turkey and in Northern Cyprus. It is one of the most significant holidays for the Turkish Armed Forces. The main celebrations take place in Ankara, at Anıtkabir, where the President of Turkey lays a wreath at Atatürk’s tomb and delivers a ceremonial speech.
In Northern Cyprus, official events begin with wreath-laying by the President of the TRNC and the command of the Turkish Peace Forces at the Atatürk monument in Nicosia. A military parade featuring Turkish and Turkish Cypriot units then takes place on Dr. Fazıl Küçük Boulevard.
Similar ceremonies are held in Famagusta (at the Victory Monument), Kyrenia, Güzelyurt, İskele, and Lefke. City squares are decorated with the flags of Turkey and the TRNC, and in the evening, concerts, dance performances, and fireworks are held. Schools and universities organize themed lessons and lectures about the events of 1922.
The largest celebration took place in 2022, marking the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Dumlupınar. In honor of the centenary, grand parades, historical reenactments, patriotic concerts, and exhibitions dedicated to the history of the Turkish Republic and Atatürk’s role were held.
Frequently asked questions about TRNC holidays
Is Victory Day a public holiday?
Yes, this day is included in the list of public holidays in Northern Cyprus and is a day off for government institutions. Therefore, visits to ministries and public offices on this day are best avoided. However, private companies and shops generally operate as usual.
What other Turkish holidays are celebrated in the TRNC?
In Northern Cyprus, the following holidays are also widely observed:
- National Sovereignty and Children's Day of Turkey (April 23)
- Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day (May 19)
- Republic Day of Turkey (October 29)
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