When is Turkmenistan Independence Day?
Independence Day is a public holiday in Turkmenistan, observed on September 27th.
This national holiday commemorates independence from the USSR in 1991.
History of Turkmenistan Independence Day
Turkmenistan is the southernmost state in Central Asia and the second largest.
Throughout its history, the region has been conquered by such notable figures as Cyrus the Great, Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. The Turkmen people first arrived in the area in about the 10th century, though there is some debate as to where they came from.
Turkmens first came under the gaze of the Russian Empire in the late 18th century, but resistance wasn't finally broken until the Battle of Gök-Tepe (now Gökdepe) in 1881, after which the area of present-day Turkmenistan incorporated into Russian Turkestan.
After the Russian Revolution, Turkmenistan formed part of the Turkestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (ASSR) in 1921, becoming a constituent republic of the USSR in 1925.
When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, the Turkmen Communist Party supported the failed coup against Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, but declared independence on October 27th 1991.
On October 27th 1991, the Supreme Soviet of the Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic adopted the Constitutional Law “On Independence and Principles of State Structure of Turkmenistan.” This act formally declared the nation’s sovereignty as the Soviet Union dissolved.
October or September?
In a review of public holidays in Turkmenistan in 2017, it was announced that Independence Day would move from October 27th to September 27th.
This change was made so that Independence Day would mark the final day of the 10-day Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (AIMAG) that were held in Turkmenistan in 2017. The holiday will remain on September 27th in subsequent years to remind people of the country's achievements at the games.
The change also reduced the public holiday to one day; previously, there had been two days of public holidays each year on October 27th - 28th to mark Independence.
How is Independence Day Celebrated in Turkmenistan?
Celebrations in Turkmenistan are known for being grand, colorful, and meticulously organized. The festivities typically last for two days, September 27 and 28, which are official public holidays.
The main celebrations take place in the capital city, Ashgabat. A massive parade usually takes place at the State Tribune complex. This is not just a military procession; it is a display of Turkmen culture.
You will see elaborately decorated floats representing the five regions (velayats) of the country: Ahal, Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap, and Mary. Thousands of citizens, from students to workers, participate in choreographed performances dressed in traditional clothing. The parade highlights the nation’s achievements in industry, agriculture, and sport.
Independence Day Cuisine
Food is the language of love and celebration in Turkmen culture. Independence Day is a time for feasting, and families gather around the dastarkhan (traditional tablecloth) to share hearty, flavorful meals. If you are celebrating from abroad, cooking these dishes is one of the best ways to feel closer to home.
Turkmen Palaw (Plov)
Palaw is the centerpiece of any festive table. While every region has its own twist, the classic Turkmen version involves tender chunks of lamb or beef, onions, and yellow carrots fried in a large cast-iron cauldron (gazan) and then simmered with rice. It is rich, savory, and meant to be eaten with hands or a spoon from a communal dish, symbolizing unity.
Dograma
This is a special dish with ancient roots, often prepared for major holidays and religious observances. It consists of baked flatbread (chorek) that is torn into small pieces by hand—a communal activity that involves the whole family. The bread is mixed with boiled meat and onions, then soaked in a rich broth. The preparation process is just as important as the eating, as it brings people together.
Manty
These are steamed dumplings filled with spiced meat (usually lamb) and onions. They are served with sour cream or yogurt. In the autumn season, you might also find pumpkin manty, offering a sweet and savory variation.
Pishme
For dessert or a snack with tea, pishme is essential. These are diamond-shaped pieces of dough, fried until golden brown and puffy. They are simple but addictive, representing sweetness and prosperity for the year ahead.
