Independence and Unity Day of Slovenia (26/12)

On December 26, Slovenia celebrates Independence and Unity Day (Slovene). Dan samostojnosti in enotnosti). This holiday is the state holiday in the country and was established in memory of the official announcement of the results of the 1990 referendum on the independence of Slovenia.

On December 23, 1990, a referendum was held in the country, the main question of which was posed as follows: «Is Slovenia a sovereign and independent state?». The results of the referendum were officially announced on December 26, 1990.

About 95% of Slovenian citizens who took part in the referendum responded positively. A total of 93.2% of citizens (who have the right to vote) voted. Thus, about 88.5% of all Slovenian citizens voted for the independence of their country.

This date is considered the official day of Slovenia's secession from Yugoslavia and the beginning of its existence as an independent state.

Until September 2005, the holiday was called Independence Day, but with the adoption of a new law on holidays and non-working days, the name was supplemented with the word «unity», since in those days the Slovenians showed a measure of national unity unprecedented in their history.

Solemn rallies and public festivities take place throughout the country on this day.

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