Everytime it’s a public holiday or it’s just round the corner we like to celebrate the holiday whilst also commemorating what it stands for. In this case, for Freedom Day, that involves a little history lesson.
Why March 31st?
The second holiday of the month – how can you not love March? Freedom Day is a day of national, historical and cultural importance. To cut it short, it is the day when we commemorate the last British troops leaving the islands.
Why is Freedom Day important?
In the context of Malta, we must remember that the islands had been conquered for a long long time. The original plan with the British was supposed to be a temporary one. In fact Malta was first a protectorate. Only after the French were forced out of the country it was supposedly given back to the Knights of St. John. Naturally, as I sit here writing in English, this did not happen.
So Malta became a British colony until 1964, when the Maltese got their independence. It then became a republic in 1974. What this meant was that Malta was now legally independent, but of course this didn’t mean that the British simply left on the day of independence. In fact there was still a lease agreement on the islands for the British troops. It eventually ended in 1979. This is where the 31st of March comes in. On the day, the British troops and Royal Navy withdrew from the islands.
This day symbolizes a fresh new start; a rebirth for the islands. Although it doesn’t have the same legal relevance as Independence day, this day has a more national sentimental value.
What Happens on the Islands on Freedom Day?
If you’re interested in having a look at how this day is commemorated, you must either go to Birgu or Floriana. In front of the church in Birgu, next to the Freedom Day Memorial, there’s a ceremony which the President attends. Or you could also go to the Floriana War Memorial where there’s another ceremony taking place on the day.
How to celebrate Freedom Day
If you do end up attending either the Birgu or the Floriana ceremony, you should spend a day there because one of the main events of the day is the national Regatta race, is perfect for if you’re around the Grand Harbour.
The Regatta is an exciting 4-hour spectacle including different clubs from various localities rowing in celebration of this monumental day. It also happens on the 8th of September to commemorate a number of victories and milestones in Maltese history but mainly the end of the Great Siege of 1565.
