Romania celebrates its National Day every year on December 1st, a date with deep historical meaning and one of the most important markers of national identity. The military parade held on this day symbolizes both the commemoration of the Great Union of 1918 and a celebration of the modern Romanian state, its values and the institutions that protect it.

Why December 1st Is Romania’s National Day

December 1st was officially adopted as the National Day in 1990, when the Romanian Parliament passed Law no. 10/1990. The law repealed the former communist national holiday of August 23rd and replaced it with a date that, although not explicitly stated in the text, symbolically refers to the Great Union of 1918.

The choice of this date had both political and historical motivations. Although the unification of Bessarabia and Bukovina took place on different dates (March 27 and November 28, 1918), December 1st remains, in public perception, the strongest reference to the foundational act of Greater Romania—the union of Transylvania, Banat, Crișana and Maramureș with the Kingdom of Romania, decided at the Great National Assembly in Alba Iulia.

The first official celebration of December 1st as National Day took place in 1990 in Alba Iulia, in a politically tense context marked by the social and political turmoil of the post-revolution period. Since then, the day has become one of national unity, remembrance and celebration.

The Significance of the December 1st Parade

The military parade is not just a show of force; it is a symbolic ritual that brings together tradition, history and collective identity. Each year, the marching of soldiers and the display of modern military equipment reflect two essential dimensions:

1. Historical significance

The parade commemorates the Great Union of 1918, the event that laid the foundation of modern Romania. It is a moment to remember the sacrifice of those who fought for the unification of historical provinces and to celebrate the values that shaped the Romanian state.

2. Contemporary significance

The event also honors the institutions responsible for safeguarding national security and sovereignty. For citizens, the parade is a moment of national pride and an opportunity to pay tribute to soldiers, firefighters, gendarmes, police officers and all emergency structures dedicated to public safety.

Where Romania’s National Day Is Celebrated in Bucharest

In the Capital, National Day is marked by a series of events organized by the Ministry of National Defence and local authorities. The most important moment is the military parade, traditionally held in the following locations:

Arcul de Triumf – The official military parade

This is the central highlight of the day. Thousands of Romanian soldiers, along with modern military equipment and vehicles from the land, air and naval forces, march before the public and officials. In recent years, soldiers from NATO allied states have also participated.

Piața Tricolorului – Official ceremonies

Wreath-laying ceremonies, moments of silence and military honors take place at monuments dedicated to national heroes.

Cultural and artistic events

Central squares, museums and cultural institutions host exhibitions, concerts, screenings and workshops dedicated to Romanian history and heritage.

December 1st – A Day of Memory and Identity

Although December 1st was chosen amid political tensions in 1990, it has gradually become a symbol of national unity. It is a day that blends remembrance of heroes, celebration of traditions and reaffirmation of Romanian identity. Through the parade, ceremonies and public events, Romania honors its past while looking confidently toward the future.