Liberation Day in Albania marks the end of Nazi occupation in 1944 and Albania's liberation during World War II, honoring the bravery of the partisans who fought for freedom and the nation's sovereignty.

When is Liberation Day?

Liberation Day in Albania is celebrated on November 29 every year.

The following is the list of Liberation Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Liberation Day?

At the outbreak of World War II, Albania was under Italian occupation, beginning on April 7, 1939, when Fascist Italy, led by Benito Mussolini, invaded and annexed the country. King Zog I fled into exile, and Albania became an Italian protectorate, with the occupiers attempting to integrate it into Mussolini's empire. Despite propaganda efforts, the occupation faced strong resistance from Albanian patriots and nationalist movements.

In 1941, inspired by the growing anti-fascist movements in Europe, the Albanian Communist Party was founded under the leadership of Enver Hoxha. The party organized a broad National Liberation Movement, uniting communists, nationalists, and civilians to fight against the occupiers. Guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and local uprisings became widespread throughout the country.

When Italy surrendered to the Allies in September 1943, Nazi Germany quickly moved in to occupy Albania, fearing the spread of Allied influence in the Balkans. The German occupation was marked by harsh repression, mass arrests, and executions, but the Albanian resistance grew stronger. Albanian partisans received limited support from the Allies but relied heavily on local organization and determination.

By late 1944, partisan forces had liberated most of the country, fighting fierce battles in Berat, Tirana and Shkodër. On November 29, 1944, the last German troops were expelled, marking Albania's complete liberation from foreign occupation. The same day, the National Liberation Front proclaimed victory and took control of the government, establishing the foundation for a new socialist regime.

Liberation Day was officially established as a national holiday under the People's Socialist Republic of Albania, led by Enver Hoxha. The communist government emphasized the heroism of partisan fighters, holding military parades, speeches, and state ceremonies each year on November 29. After the fall of communism in 1991, Albania's political landscape changed, and the historical interpretation of November 29 became more nuanced.