Victory Day in Bangladesh

On 16 December 1971 the Liberation War ended with the surrender in Dhaka, and Bangladesh became independent in fact. Bijoy Dibosh, Victory Day, is a national holiday of flags, songs and tributes to the three million who died.

Updated 21 October 2026. The government announces the day’s programme in early December.

Date

Victory Day is always on 16 December. In 2026 it falls on a Wednesday.

How Victory Day 2025 was marked

On 16 December 2025 the day began with a 31-gun salute and wreaths at the National Martyrs’ Memorial at sunrise, followed by freedom fighters, diplomats and the public. There was no military parade for the second year running; instead there was a flypast over Tejgaon, a paratroop display, cultural shows at Suhrawardy Udyan and free entry to museums.

Visiting the memorial

The National Martyrs’ Memorial (Jatiyo Smriti Soudho) at Savar is about 35 km north-west of central Dhaka on the Dhaka–Aricha highway: one to two hours by car, or a bus from Gabtoli.

Officials lay wreaths first at dawn; the public goes in afterwards, with crowds peaking in mid-morning.

Tips for visiting

• Expect road closures and security checks near Savar early in the morning.
• Flowers are sold outside the memorial if you would like to lay some.
• Offices close, but most shops and restaurants open.
• Add the Liberation War Museum in Agargaon, free on national days.

Visiting with us

Our guides can take you to Savar and tell the story of 1971. Plan your trip.

Victory Day FAQs