Patriotism, pride, and people: Celebrating Kazakhstan Republic Day at home and globally
Kazakhstan celebrated Republic Day on October 25, a significant occasion that commemorates the ratification of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the Kazakh SSR in 1990, which was the nation's precursor to independence. Citizens from Astana, Almaty, regional centers, and embassies worldwide convened to commemorate the nation's accomplishments, cultural pride, and national unity. Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports on the festivities.
In his Republic Day address, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev underscored Kazakhstan's vision for the future and resilience, asserting, "We look ahead with confidence and build Just and Fair Kazakhstan for the benefit of future generations. What our country will be like tomorrow depends on each of us! I am confident that all our citizens are aware of this great responsibility and will contribute to strengthening our statehood.”
Tokayev conducted a symbolic National Flag-raising ceremony at the Presidential Residence later in the day. The Guard of Honor Company saluted and the national anthem reverberated throughout the square.
The capital city of Astana was overflowing with festivities as it hosted more than 100 Republic Day events. Large audiences attended the photo exhibition "One Hundred Bright Faces of Astana" at Khan Shatyr Shopping and Entertainment Center. The exhibition showcased 100 images of residents who have made substantial contributions to the city, commending those who have held positions in urban planning, public service, and sanitation. The capital's festive ambiance was enhanced by a variety of cultural performances, athletics competitions, art exhibitions, and concerts that took place throughout the week.
The celebrations were also strongly characterized by community support. Several local heroes, veterans, community workers, and citizens who have demonstrated valor or contributed to the nation's well-being were publicly honored, and more than 1,000 food baskets were distributed to vulnerable citizens.
The evening's festivities concluded with a spectacular pyrotechnics display that illuminated the sky with 2,500 bursts of light. The sponsorship-organized four-minute display covered a 150-meter span and reached heights of 30 to 250 meters. The occasion was commemorated by more than 10,000 attendees, who converged to witness the event.
Meanwhile in Almaty, akim Yerbolat Dossayev, local officials, deputies, and representatives of youth organizations attended the National Flag-raising ceremony at Almaty's iconic Medeu ice arena.
This day was especially significant for World War II veteran Kambar Sarsenov, who celebrated his 100th birthday on Republic Day. Almaty's military officials paid tribute to him for his prolonged service by awarding him a special tribute from the Military-Engineering Institute of Radioelectronics and Communications.
Furthermore, Almaty's II International Puppet Festival, which took place from October 21 to 24, provided entertainment for thousands of attendees. Artists from Kazakhstan, Poland, China, Turkey, and other countries showcased their most exceptional puppet performances. The Alakai theater of Kazakhstan was awarded the festival's most prestigious distinction, the Grand Prix, for their emotionally moving production of The Generous Tree.
Almaty closed its Republic Day celebrations with a spectacular drone show at Abai Square by the Palace of the Republic and Astana Square near KBTU, drawing thousands of residents and visitors. Over 500 drones synchronized in flight to create 3D visuals of Kazakh cultural elements and historic moments, all set to a musical backdrop.
In other cities of Kazakhstan, environmental and public initiatives dedicated to Republic Day were implemented. As part of the Taza Qazaqstan initiative, residents of Turkestan came together with the region's akim, Darkhan Satybaldy, to plant 100 trees. Meanwhile, a large-scale volunteer campaign involving 200 people was held in the Abay district, which included planting trees and cleaning the environment.
Aktobe commemorated Republic Day by inaugurating a new school that accommodates 371 students, a significant achievement for the Kyzylzhar residential area. Furthermore, the Modernizing Rural Healthcare initiative has initiated the operation of new medical facilities in the villages of the Abai region, which are responsible for the provision of essential healthcare services. The new centers, which include pharmacies, physiotherapy facilities, and procedure rooms, are essential additions to the healthcare infrastructure of the region.
Republic Day was celebrated not only within the country, but also by Kazakhstan’s embassies around the world through cultural events, receptions and meetings. The Kazakh Embassy in Turkiye hosted a reception for approximately 1,000 visitors, which included government representatives, prominent intellectuals, and diplomats. The concert program, which celebrated Kazakh culture and demonstrated the strength of the Kazakh-Turkish relationship, was relished by attendees, who also sampled traditional Kazakh dishes.
Congratulations were also extended by distinguished foreign leaders. The British Embassy's Instagram account posted a message from King Charles III of the United Kingdom, conveying his sincere regards to President Tokayev and the people of Kazakhstan. Back in the UK, the fan club of Dimash Kudaibergen also celebrated Kazakhstan's Republic Day, highlighting the artist's contribution in bridging cultures.
Further east, members of the Kazakh diaspora, local officials, and representatives from the United Nations and the New York Mayor's Office convened in New York for a flag-raising ceremony in the city's historic district. Additionally, the Kazakh Embassy in Beijing organized a children’s chess tournament to mark the occasion, awarding winners with diplomas and commemorative prizes for their achievements.
