May 26 marks Georgia’s Independence Day, commemorating the country’s declaration of independence on this day in 1918.
This year, celebrations on Freedom Square in Tbilisi will begin at 11:00 AM. According to the Ministry of Defense, a general rehearsal for the event was held on May 25, led by Lieutenant General Giorgi Matiashvili, Commander of the Defense Forces. Unit commanders and the event director were also present to finalize preparations for the military celebration.
Alongside professional personnel, recruits from the National Military Service took part in the rehearsal. These recruits will officially join the Defense Forces by taking their military oath during a ceremonial event on May 26. The oath-taking will take place not only on Freedom Square but also at five other historic sites across Georgia.
As part of the traditional celebrations, residents across 21 cities and municipalities will have the opportunity to explore exhibitions of military equipment, weapons, and gear. These exhibitions will be held in Tbilisi, Gori, Akhaltsikhe, Mtskheta, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, Ozurgeti, Poti, Khoni, Ambrolauri, Batumi, Telavi, Akhalkalaki, Marneuli, Senaki, Samtredia, Bagdati, Chkhorotsku, Abasha, and Martvili.
To conclude the official ceremony on Freedom Square, aircraft from the Air Defense and Aviation Command will conduct a ceremonial flyover.
In addition to the main events, various celebrations and activities will also take place throughout the day on Orbeliani Square.
