Hello everyone :)!
Today, May 30th, my country Croatia celebrates Statehood Day, a holiday that resonates with pride, remembrance, and un-dieable strength. It’s a day that honors the moment in 1990 when, for the first time in its modern history, Croatia elected a democratic, multi-party parliament. That vote would go on to shape the path to independence and define the country’s modern identity.
But this day isn’t just about history. It’s about what it means to belong somewhere. It’s about knowing that the freedoms people enjoy today were built from decades of perseverance, debate, and sacrifice of others. Statehood Day is both a celebration of sovereignty and a reflection on the journey it took to get here.
Like every year, that journey echoed loudly through the sky. Rafale fighter jets; Our “pride” in modern defense flew in formation over Zagreb and other cities, including Rijeka, Knin, Vukovar, and Dubrovnik. The strong sound of their engines wasn’t just a show of military strength. It was a salute to everyone who has helped shape Croatia, from those who stood in parliament in 1990 to those who served in the military and are there today.
Above Zagreb (the event is held on Jarun lake but since I live nearby I got to see the ceremony in the sky too😄), the jets appeared at 7:50pm. Some flew in graceful arcs, while others performed precise aerobatic maneuvers that seemed to defy gravity. People stopped whatever they were doing and looked at them in awe. Heads tilted toward the sky. Phones came out.
You can see the video here :)
People say there’s something unifying about moments like that, the kind that remind you you’re part of something bigger. That you share a history, a sky, and a future with the people around you. And as I am beyond grateful to those in the military and those that risked their lives for us, I simply cannot help but to feel fear in these moments. Instead of making peace all around the world governments showcase their power in mighty war equipment.. a smart brain and steady mind should win, not weapons.
However it offers space to remember how far a small country like Croatia has come and how it continues to grow, adapt, and hold onto its values from day to day.
It’s not just about politics or national pride in the flag. It’s about the people. About with your neighbors, friends, family, about children waving miniature flags, about our grandparents and parents remembering what life was like before independence. It’s about young people who weren’t even born when the first parliament was formed (me lol), but who now carry the country’s story forward in their own way.
Statehood Day is a reminder that a country is more than its borders. It’s the people, their resilience, their everyday choices and bravery. It’s the belief that progress is worth fighting for and celebrating, year after year.
*All photos and videos are mine
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