"Patriots Day 2025 in Ethiopia" refers to Patriots' Victory Day (also known as Victory Day), a significant national holiday commemorating the liberation of Ethiopia from Italian occupation. This day is observed annually on Ginbot 27 in the Ethiopian calendar, which consistently corresponds to May 5th in the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, Patriots' Victory Day in Ethiopia for 2025 will fall on May 5, 2025.
The holiday marks a pivotal moment in Ethiopian history: the re-entry of Emperor Haile Selassie into Addis Ababa on May 5, 1941, signaling the end of the five-year Italian occupation (1936-1941) and the restoration of Ethiopian sovereignty. This event followed a sustained and arduous resistance by Ethiopian patriot forces, often operating independently or with limited Allied support, against the Fascist Italian regime. The day honors the sacrifices of these patriots and the nation's steadfast refusal to succumb to colonial rule, distinguishing Ethiopia as the only African nation to successfully repel European colonial powers for extended periods without full colonization.
Observed as a public holiday, Patriots' Victory Day serves as a profound national affirmation of independence, resilience, and unity. It is typically marked by official ceremonies, commemorative events, and public celebrations across the country, reflecting on the historical struggle and celebrating the enduring spirit of the Ethiopian people. For 2025, these commemorations will proceed on May 5th, maintaining its status as a vital date in the national calendar for historical reflection and patriotic pride.
