Malagasy National Day: Celebration and Patriotism!

Malagasy flags flying everywhere, fairs and games in the streets, people parading with paper lanterns, and firecrackers echoing through the night—this is Malagasy Independence Day. The mood is festive, filled with joy! The first national celebration in 1960 lasted an entire month, but such grand festivities are no longer possible today. However, a few traditions remain, even if some of their symbolic meanings have faded over time.

The Celebration of Harendrina and Tsipoapoaka

Malagasy Independence Day is officially celebrated on June 26, but the festivities begin on the evening of June 25. The goal is to banish the darkness of the night and let the power of light prevail. For children, it’s the celebration of harendrina (paper lanterns) and tsipoapoaka (firecrackers). On the night before the big day, families take to the streets with their lanterns, singing a traditional song: "Harendrina taratasy ô, may, may, may…" (paper lantern, burn! burn! burn!)—a symbolic call to ignite the light. The festivities then resume on the evening of June 26. 

This tradition was once associated with another national celebration: Malagasy New Year. Women and children would roam the village at night with candle-lit lanterns, illuminating the area and warding off evil spirits until dawn so the festivities could continue peacefully. Today, during Independence Day, the lantern parades are shorter, usually just a stroll around the neighborhood. 

Firecrackers, originally meant to symbolize gunfire from the struggle for independence, are still part of the celebration. However, they’re often used sparingly due to their cost. Fireworks, an essential element of any national holiday, are launched from Lake Anosy in Antananarivo, lasting about 45 minutes. For the first time in 2019, they were extended to all 21 regions of Madagascar, lasting 30 minutes each.

The Celebration of Light and Music Stages

Fire and light serve to ward off evil spirits, but in the 21st century, modern sources of light have replaced traditional ones. The symbolic meaning of fire as a protector is often forgotten, even though Malagasy land is traditionally considered the "land of spirits." Paper lanterns are now frequently substituted with luminous Chinese-made toys. Amid the cacophony of the nights of June 25 and 26, a few traditional lanterns remain, albeit lit with battery-operated lamps instead of candles. 

Day and night, free music performances take place in strategic locations across major cities. These stages feature popular and emerging artists, drawing crowds that create massive traffic jams. Drivers and pedestrians alike fill the streets, celebrating together.

The Celebration of Games and Public Dances

Near these stages, games of chance and other activities are set up. Street vendors sell various foods and drinks, including alcoholic beverages and meat skewers. In 2019, the Malagasy Army, also celebrating its 59th anniversary, organized a fair in Antananarivo at Betongolo Field, featuring activities like ziplining, parachuting, and games such as mini trains, fishing games, darts, flight simulators, lotto, ping-pong, shooting ranges, and roller coasters. 

What about public dances? While they are less common today, these were once gatherings where young people danced and enjoyed themselves. When one did occur, everyone was welcome to join in. Nowadays, some families still organize dances, but they’re usually private events for family members only. 

Nevertheless, Malagasy National Day remains a time of year when people of all ages are happy—especially children, who have dubbed June “Children’s Month.”

The Traditional Parade of June 26

The highlight of June 26 is the traditional parade at Mahamasina Stadium in Antananarivo. This event features the president, Andry Rajoelina, as the guest of honor alongside African leaders who attend the Independence Day celebrations. 

Masses of spectators flock to the parade, many traveling from the outskirts of the capital or rural areas to witness the captivating display of horses, helicopters, airplanes, and military vehicles, which never fail to amaze.

Fety sambatra! (Happy celebrations!)