Commemoration Day of Atatürk, Youth, and Sports
One of Turkey's most important holidays is widely celebrated in Northern Cyprus as well.
- History of Atatürk Memorial Day
- Atatürk Memorial Day in Northern Cyprus
- Frequently Asked Questions about the Holiday
History of the Holiday
Atatürk Memorial Day, Youth and Sports Day, is an annual Turkish national holiday celebrated on May 19th in memory of 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 does youth and sports have to do with it? In 1916, the first Gymnastics Festival was held in Istanbul. The anthem of the festival became the rearranged Swedish folk song "Tre trallande jäntor," which turned into the Turkish march "Dağ Başını Duman Almış."
According to eyewitnesses, when Atatürk and his army left Samsun with a victorious march, everyone sang this very song.
Noteworthy: Atatürk was born in 1881, but his exact birthdate is unknown. In one of his speeches, he stated that he considers May 19th as 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 Youth and Sports Festival.
Atatürk Memorial Day in Northern Cyprus
On this day, young people (and not only) sing the national anthem, recite poems, organize parades and sporting events, as well as hold cultural activities such as performing folk dances.
The people of Northern Cyprus greatly respect Atatürk. Government officials, military personnel, students, and ordinary citizens gather at monuments, public squares, and schools throughout Northern Cyprus to lay wreaths, observe a moment of silence, and listen to speeches dedicated to Atatürk's contribution to the development of the nation.
Throughout Northern Cyprus, the streets are decorated with Turkish flags, banners, and portraits of Atatürk on this day, and even several days before May 19th. Bright sports competitions are also organized in cities and towns of Northern Cyprus, ranging from football and basketball tournaments to athletics competitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Atatürk Memorial Day a public holiday?
Yes, Atatürk Memorial Day, Youth and Sports Day is a public holiday and is included in the list of public holidays in Northern Cyprus.
Where else is Atatürk Memorial Day celebrated?
It is an official holiday only in Turkey and Northern Cyprus. In some Turkic countries, such as Azerbaijan, celebratory events are also held. However, in Greece, May 19th is observed as the Day of Remembrance for the Greek Genocide victims.
What other Turkish holidays are celebrated in the TRNC?
In addition to Atatürk Memorial Day, Youth and Sports Day, Northern Cyprus also widely celebrates Turkish Republic Day and Turkey’s National Independence and Children’s Day.
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Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…
