Sri Lanka Independence Day 2011: Date & Significance

Sri Lanka's Independence Day is always February 4. In 2011, it fell on a Friday, February 4, 2011.

Historical Context

• Date: February 4, 1948 — Dominion of Ceylon gains independence from British Empire.
• Name change: 1972 → Republic of Sri Lanka (new constitution).
• 2011 significance: 63rd anniversary. Post-civil war (ended May 2009); President Mahinda Rajapaksa presided over celebrations in Colombo (Galle Face Green) with military parade, cultural pageants, religious observances.

Annual Traditions

• Flag-hoisting at Independence Square, Colombo.
• President's address to the nation.
• Military parade (tri-forces + police).
• Cultural performances (Kandyan dance, drumming, school choirs).
• Religious ceremonies (Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Christian) — multi-faith blessing.
• National holiday — schools, government, most businesses closed.

If you need the day of week for any year: Feb 4 — plug into any calendar.