The Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage has announced that celebrations for the Maldives' 60th Independence Day will span three days, from July 26 to 28, with a packed schedule of parades, ceremonies, cultural performances, and fireworks.

Festivities will begin at 6:00 a.m. on July 26 with the national flag-raising ceremony at Republic Square, followed by a military parade featuring the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) at 4:15 p.m. The National Cadet Corps, school sports teams, and cultural performers will also take part.

While parades and route marches will take place along Malé’s main roads on July 26, similar events are scheduled in Hulhumalé on July 27.

The official Independence Day ceremony will be held at 8:30 a.m. on July 27 at the Youth Centre. All former Presidents of the Republic have been invited to attend.

A special fireworks display is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. on July 27 in Malé, with a second show set for 8:30 p.m. on July 28 at Hulhumalé Central Park.

Republic Square has been closed to the public from July 10 to 25 to allow for preparations. Various Government agencies and groups are coordinating efforts for the fireworks and related activities.