National Day (second day) in Bahrain

When did the National Day (second day) in Bahrain start?

The first recorded date of National Day (second day) in Bahrain being celebrated on December 17 was in the year 1971.

About National Day (second day) in Bahrain Holiday

As avid travelers, we are always on the lookout for unique and exciting destinations that offer a glimpse into different cultures. And when it comes to celebrating National Day, there is no better place to experience the rich heritage and traditions of a country than Bahrain.

Located in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain is a small yet fascinating island nation that boasts a diverse cultural landscape. And on the second day of National Day celebrations, Bahrain truly comes alive with a plethora of festivities, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

From vibrant parades and traditional dance performances to mouth-watering food fairs and dazzling firework displays, the National Day celebrations in Bahrain are a true reflection of the country's warm and welcoming spirit. So why not pack your bags and join in on the celebrations on the second day of National Day in Bahrain? Trust us, it will be an unforgettable holiday experience like no other.

Key Takeaways:

• The National Day (second day) holiday in Bahrain celebrates the country’s independence and rich culture.
• It is a time for people to come together and celebrate their heritage through traditions, food, music, and more.
• The holiday is a blend of modern and traditional celebrations, showcasing the diversity and progress of Bahrain.

History and Origin:

Bahrain’s National Day (second day) holiday holds great significance to the country’s history and culture. It is celebrated on December 16th every year, marking the day when Bahrain gained its independence from the British in 1971. Before this, Bahrain had been under British protection since 1861, following the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Commerce signed between the two countries.

The road to independence was not an easy one for Bahrain. The people of Bahrain had been fighting for their freedom for years, and it was not until 1968 when the United Nations recognized the country’s right to self-determination. Finally, on December 16th, 1971, the British officially ended their protectorate over Bahrain, and the country gained full sovereignty.

Since then, December 16th has been declared a national holiday, and in 2001, it became a two-day holiday, with December 17th also being celebrated as a day of remembrance for the referendum on Bahrain’s National Action Charter. This charter paved the way for Bahrain to become a constitutional monarchy, with a democratically-elected parliament.

Significance and Meaning:

The National Day (second day) holiday holds immense cultural importance to Bahrainis. It is a time to celebrate their heritage, traditions, and achievements as a country. The holiday symbolizes the strength and resilience of Bahrain and its people in their journey towards independence and self-determination.

It is also a time for national pride as the country displays its progress and prosperity through various celebrations and events. The holiday is a reminder of the country’s unity and diversity, where people from different backgrounds, religions, and cultures come together to celebrate as one.

Symbols and Decorations:

The Bahrain flag is an important symbol of the National Day holiday. It features a red background, representing courage and bravery, with five white triangles representing the five pillars of Islam. The flag is displayed proudly throughout the country, decorating streets, buildings, and homes.

Another popular symbol is the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds great historical significance to the country. It serves as a reminder of Bahrain’s rich history and its journey towards independence.

During the holiday, you will also see a lot of traditional decorations, such as gold and red streamers, lanterns, and festive lights, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

Traditions and Celebrations:

The National Day (second day) holiday is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate. One of the most significant traditions is the Flag Raising Ceremony, where the national flag is raised on flagpoles across the country, including the Bahrain Fort and Bahrain Financial Harbour.

Parades and processions are also a common sight during the holiday, with members of the Bahraini Royal Family and government officials participating. These parades feature traditional dances, music, and military displays.

On the evening of December 16th, a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky, followed by traditional dances and performances, showcasing Bahrain’s rich culture and heritage.

Food and Cuisine:

Food plays a central role in any celebration, and the National Day (second day) holiday is no different. Families gather to enjoy traditional dishes, such as machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish, and saloona, a hearty vegetable stew. Luqaimat, deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and topped with sesame seeds, is a popular dessert during the holiday.

A traditional drink called Qahwa (Arabic coffee) is also a must-have during the holiday. Served in small cups with cardamom and saffron, it is a symbol of hospitality and is typically served with dates, another essential part of the Bahraini culture.

Attire and Costumes:

During the National Day holiday, you will see many people dressed in traditional attire, known as thoub or thobe. Thoub is a long, white garment for men and is often worn with a headscarf called ghutra and a black corded headband called agal. Women wear colorful and intricately embroidered abayas, a loose-fitting garment, and a headscarf called hijab.

Other traditional clothing includes the jalabiya, a long tunic worn by both men and women, and the bishoot, a colorful dress usually worn for special occasions.

Music and Songs:

Music is an essential part of the National Day holiday, with traditional songs and dances being performed throughout the celebrations. The ayallah is a traditional dance commonly performed during the holiday, where a group of men clap, sing, and dance in a circle, often accompanied by a drummer.

Traditional songs celebrating Bahrain’s culture, heritage, and unity are also popular during the holiday. The country’s official anthem, “Bahrainona,” is usually played during the Flag Raising Ceremony and other official events.

Geographical Spread:

The National Day (second day) holiday is primarily celebrated in Bahrain, a small island country located in the Arabian Gulf. However, its influence is also seen in other countries with significant Bahraini communities, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

In Bahrain, the holiday is celebrated across the country, with most events and celebrations taking place in the capital city, Manama. Regional variations in the holiday celebrations include the addition of local cultural elements and traditions.

Modern-Day Observations:

As Bahrain progresses and modernizes, the National Day holiday has also evolved to include more contemporary celebrations and events. Along with traditional parades and performances, concerts, and other cultural events are also organized to celebrate the holiday.

In recent years, social media has become a significant platform for Bahrainis to share their celebrations and show their national pride, using hashtags such as #BahrainNationalDay and #WeAreBahrain.

Interesting Facts or Trivia:

• The National Day (second day) holiday was first celebrated in 1971, making it one of the youngest national holidays in the region.
• The National Action Charter, which was approved in a national referendum on December 17th, 2001, set the framework for constitutional reforms in Bahrain.
• December 16th is also the birthday of the late Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the first Emir of Bahrain, making the holiday even more special for Bahrainis.
• Bahrain’s traditional dance, the ayallah, is included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• In 2018, a Guinness World Record was set in Bahrain for the largest human portrait of a flag, with over 20,000 people participating in the formation of the Bahraini flag.

Holiday Wishes:

• Happy National Day!
• Wishing you all a proud and prosperous National Day!
• May Bahrain always shine with progress and peace. Happy National Day!
• Here’s to the unity and diversity of Bahrain. Happy National Day!
• Wishing my fellow Bahrainis a joyous and celebratory National Day!

Holiday Messages:

• May the spirit of Bahrain’s National Day keep us united and proud as a nation.
• On this special day, let us celebrate Bahrain’s heritage and achievements with joy and pride.
• Here’s to the progress and prosperity of our beloved country. Happy National Day!
• May the strength and resilience of Bahrain and its people continue to be an inspiration. Happy National Day!
• Wishing you a memorable and meaningful National Day full of love and happiness.

Holiday Quotes:

• “Bahrain is a country where the past, present, and future coexist in perfect harmony.” – Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa
• “Our traditions and cultures may differ, but our love for this country unites us all.” – King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
• “Bahrain’s National Day is a testament to our determination and unity as a nation.” – Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa
• “Bahrain’s modernity is rooted in its past. Let us never forget our history and heritage.” – Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa
• “The unity of our people in Bahrain is our strength, and our National Day is a celebration of this unity.” – Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa

FAQ:

• Is National Day a public holiday in Bahrain? Yes, December 16th and 17th are both public holidays in Bahrain, with most offices and businesses closed.
• What are some traditional gifts given during the National Day holiday? Dates, traditional sweets, and souvenirs featuring the Bahraini flag or landmarks are commonly given as gifts during the holiday.
• What is the significance of the Bahrain Fort? The Bahrain Fort holds great significance in the country’s history as it was once the capital of the Dilmun civilization. It is also believed to have been the site of the Garden of Eden mentioned in the Bible.
• Are there any special activities for children during the National Day holiday? Yes, many family-friendly events and activities, such as face painting and carnival games, take place during the holiday to involve children in the celebrations.

Other Popular Holiday Info:

Over the years, the National Day (second day) holiday has become a symbol of Bahrain’s unity, progress, and cultural heritage. It is a time for people to come together and celebrate their country and its achievements. The holiday serves as a reminder of Bahrain’s journey towards independence and its continued efforts to progress and prosper as a nation.

As Bahrain continues to develop, the National Day holiday holds even more significance, reminding its people to never forget their past as they move into the future. It is a time to reflect on the country’s growth and celebrate its diversity and unity.

Conclusion:

The National Day (second day) holiday in Bahrain is a celebration of the country’s independence, culture, and progress. It is a time for people to come together and showcase their rich heritage through traditional celebrations, food, music, and more. The holiday holds great historical and cultural significance to Bahrain and its people, making it one of the most important holidays in the country’s calendar. So let’s raise our flags high and join in the celebrations with pride and joy. Happy National Day to all!

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