Albania Independence Day
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- 1443Skanderbeg raises Albanian resistance against Ottoman rule
- 1912Independence proclaimed in Vlorë
- 1991First multi-party elections mark end of communist era
Why Albania celebrates 28 November
On 28 November 1912, Albanian leaders gathered in the coastal city of Vlorë and proclaimed independence from the Ottoman Empire, ending five centuries of foreign rule. The date is known as Dita e Flamurit — Flag Day — because it was the first occasion the Albanian double-headed eagle flew as the flag of a sovereign state.
The declaration was led by Ismail Qemali, a former Ottoman official who returned to Albania to lead the independence movement. It came at a critical moment when the Ottoman Empire was weakening during the Balkan Wars, giving Albanians a narrow window to assert nationhood before the region was carved up between neighbouring states.
Today the day is marked with flag-raising ceremonies, military parades and cultural events across Albania. The capital Tirana holds the largest festivities, with crowds gathering in Skanderbeg Square — named after the 15th-century national hero who resisted Ottoman conquest for 25 years.
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The Albanian flag features a black double-headed eagle on a red field. The eagle is one of the oldest national symbols in Europe and was used by the medieval lord Gjergj Kastrioti — Skanderbeg — in the 15th century. The red field represents bravery and the blood of those who fought for independence.
Albanian cuisine is shaped by Mediterranean, Balkan and Ottoman traditions. National Day celebrations centre on slow-cooked meats, rich pastries and fresh dairy products.
What to eat
Tavë kosiBaked lamb and rice in a thick yogurt and egg sauce — widely regarded as the national dish.
ByrekFilo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese or minced meat — found at every Albanian bakery.
FërgesëA Tirana specialty of sautéed peppers, tomatoes and cottage cheese baked in a clay pot.
QofteGrilled minced meat patties seasoned with onion and herbs, served with flatbread.
TrileceThree-milk sponge cake soaked in evaporated, condensed and heavy cream — a beloved dessert.
PetullaFried dough balls served with feta cheese or fruit jam — a popular street snack at fairs.What to drink
RakiAlbanian grape or mulberry brandy — the national spirit, traditionally home-distilled.
DhallëChilled salted yogurt drink consumed at meals throughout Albania.
CoffeeStrong Turkish-style espresso served at every café — Albanians are devoted coffee drinkers.Albania culture
Albanian identity is anchored in the figure of Skanderbeg, the double-headed eagle and the ancient Kanun code of customary law. Independence Day draws these symbols together in public ceremonies from north to south.
Skanderbeg Square ceremonyThe main square in Tirana fills with crowds for the official flag-raising and state speeches.
Military paradeThe Albanian armed forces march through the capital in a formal independence ceremony.
Iso-polyphonyUNESCO-listed Albanian folk choral singing performed at cultural events on national occasions.
National costumeTraditional Albanian dress — the white fustanella for men and richly embroidered dresses for women — worn at folk performances.