National Day in Austria
National Day is a public holiday that’s observed in Austria on the 26th of October each year. Known as Nationalfeiertag in German, this national day commemorates the country’s Declaration of Neutrality in 1955.
Austria (National holiday)Since the creation of this holiday, neutrality has become an important part of Austria’s identity. An identity that has been codified by not only Austria’s Constitution but also through international law.
Some argue that Austria isn’t as neutral as it once was following the conclusion of WWII since it is a member of the European Union, but this day is still observed with a variety of events that are mainly held in Vienna every year.
The History Of Austria’s National Day
The Declaration of Neutrality that was passed in May of 1955 was a direct result of the Axis powers losing the war and the occupation of Austria by Allied forces. After Austria signed this neutrality declaration the last of the foreign troops in the country left on October 25th, 1955.
After the country joined the EU, there was some debate about whether Austria would change its policy of neutrality, or if that was even a possibility. This holiday has been observed by Austria since 1955 and continues to remain an important national holiday.
Interesting Facts About Austria
Below is a list of facts that we’ve gathered about Austria during our research of National Day. We think that the following facts will educate everyone who is not familiar with this country but want to learn more.
- The Austrian Alps cover over 60% of the country’s total landmass.
- Austria shares its borders with eight other countries. These countries include the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland.
- Approximately 30% of Austria’s forested land is protected.
- The first postcards in the world were published in Austria.
- The Austrian Flag, which was created in 1191, is one of the oldest national flags on the planet.
- In Vienna is the Austrian National Library. It’s home to more than two million books, making it one of the most important libraries in the world.
- Approximately a quarter of Austria’s population lives in the capital city of Austria, Vienna.
Observing Austria’s National Day
Most of the events scheduled for this holiday are held in Vienna. These events include a special meeting of the Council of Ministers, a Mass on the Heldenplatz that’s attended by the President and the Federal Minister of Defense, and new recruits to the Austrian Armed Services are sworn in. To spread the news about this month, the hashtags #Nationalfeiertag or #AustrianNationalDay can be used on social media.
Austria (National holiday)
