In 1965, the government and parliament discussed what the national holiday should commemorate in the future. They finally decided on perpetual neutrality. This and the declaration of neutrality are commemorated in Austria today.
The “National Holiday” has only existed since 1965. From 1955 to 1964, October 26 was called “Flag Day.” The State Treaty, which restored Austria’s sovereignty, was signed on May 15, 1955.
This important day in Austria’s history has always been celebrated. Every year, visitors can look forward to a colorful program from the army, politics, and police.
The most important program items on 26 October:
- Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen will lay a wreath at Heldenplatz at 9.30 am, followed by the Federal Government at 10 am.
- The presidential chancellery will be open to visitors from 10 am. Van der Bellen and his wife Doris Schmidauer will welcome guests in front of the Hofburg on Ballhausplatz.
- The Federal Chancellery will be open for visits between 12 noon and 5 pm.
- Between 10 am and 4 pm, visitors can take part in a one-hour tour of Parliament.
- On National Day, the Austrian Armed Forces will host an information and performance show as usual in Vienna—and this year, also in Salzburg at the Schwarzenberg barracks.
- Hundreds of recruits will be sworn in from 11 a.m. on Heldenplatz, and the Federal President will lay a wreath at the Outer Castle Gate at the start of the ceremony.
New among the weapons and vehicles on display at Vienna’s Heldenplatz this year are the “Lion” helicopter and the “Skyranger” air defense system. A “Black Hawk” will also land in front of the spectators. In addition, parachutists from the fighter commando will be demonstrating their skills.
- source: krone.at/picture: pixabay.com
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