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Mauritius Independence Day is celebrated every year on 12 March. This national holiday is a time to commemorate the country’s independence from Britain in 1968 and its transition to a republic in 1992.
National Mauritius Day: Date
- 2025: 12 March, 2025 [Wednesday]
- 2026: 12 March, 2026 [Thursday]
- 2027: 12 March, 2027 [Friday]
- 2028: 12 March, 2028 [Sunday]
Mauritius Day is celebrated with a colorful parade, including a military parade with the national anthem. The flag-hoisting ceremony is also part of the celebrations. In addition, people all over Mauritius hold nature with the utmost respect and importance.
Mauritius Independence Day: History
The history of Mauritius Day dates back to 1959, when British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan gave his famous “Winds of Change” speech, outlining the British government’s intention to grant independence to many of its overseas colonies, including Mauritius. This led to an increasing call for self-rule in Mauritius, and the 1966 elections resulted in a victory for an alliance of the Mauritius Labour Party and other self-rule parties.
On 12 March, 1968, Mauritius was proclaimed a constitutional monarchy, with Queen Elizabeth II remaining head of state. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam also became the country’s first Prime Minister. Twenty-four years later, on 12 March, 1992, Mauritius was proclaimed as a republic within the British Commonwealth.
Theme & Significance:
Mauritius Day is celebrated with pride and celebration, as people across the country raise their flags in honor of the nation’s independence and freedom. The colorful parade, the military parade, and the flag-hoisting ceremony are all part of the celebrations to mark this important national holiday.
The significance of Mauritius Day lies in its celebration of the country’s independence and the triumph of its people after centuries of internal and external conflicts. It is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by the forefathers who fought for freedom and to celebrate the vibrant cultures and colors that make Mauritius a unique and beautiful nation.
Independence Day Mauritius Activities:
Watch the celebrations
- Across Mauritius, Independence Day is celebrated with songs, parties, official speeches, and parades. Watch the celebrations and join the festivities with the Mauritian people on this day.
Learn about Mauritius
- There’s no better day to learn about Mauritian culture and diversity than its Independence Day. Look up Mauritian cultural practices, from music to religion, to educate yourself.
Participate in local celebrations
- Find Mauritian people near you and get everyone together to celebrate the day locally. Cook Mauritian food, play traditional music, and enjoy yourself.
5 Interesting Facts About Mauritius
It was home to the dodo
- Mauritius is known for its natural diversity and was the only known home to the extinct dodo bird.
It’s the most peaceful African country
- According to the Global Peace Index, Mauritius is the most peaceful African country as of 2019.
Hinduism is the most practiced religion
- Mauritius is highly diverse in faith and religious practices and is the only African country where Hinduism is the most practiced religion.
It is a welfare state
- The government of Mauritius provides its citizens with universal healthcare, free education, and free public transportation.
Soccer is the most popular sport
- The national soccer team of Mauritius is known as The Dodos.
