Unification Day

Unification Day is a national public holiday celebrated annually on January 24. The day commemorates the 1859 election of Alexandru Ioan Cuza as the leader of both Moldavia and Wallachia, an event often called the “Little Union.” This political maneuver effectively bypassed international restrictions and laid the foundation for the modern Romanian state.

History of Unification Day

During the mid-19th century, the principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia were separate entities under Ottoman suzerainty. Following the Crimean War, the 1856 Treaty of Paris allowed the principalities to take steps toward self-governance but did not explicitly permit a full union. The Romanian people utilized a legal loophole by electing the same person, Alexandru Ioan Cuza, as the ruling prince in both regions. He was first elected in Moldavia on January 5, 1859, and then in Wallachia on January 24, 1859.

Under Cuza’s leadership, the two administrations were merged into the United Principalities, which was officially renamed Romania in 1866. His reign introduced vital reforms, including the adoption of a new civil code, the secularization of monastic lands, and the establishment of a national education system. Although the “Great Union” including Transylvania did not occur until 1918, this earlier unification in 1859 is credited with creating the institutional framework necessary for a single national identity. The government officially designated January 24 as a public holiday in 2014, with the first nationwide observance occurring in 2015.

Why is Unification Day important?

This holiday honors the diplomatic ingenuity of the Romanian people who achieved sovereign goals despite the opposition of major European powers. It serves as a reminder of the shared language and culture that existed long before political borders were redrawn. Without the 1859 union, the later expansion of the country in 1918 would not have had a central administration to join, making this date the starting point of the modern nation.

The day also highlights the transition from feudal systems to a modern European state. The reforms initiated following the unification helped stabilize the economy and professionalize the military. Today, the holiday reinforces national solidarity and reminds citizens of the historical persistence required to maintain independence. It bridges the gap between the various historical provinces and fosters a sense of collective purpose.

• It marks the birth of the modern Romanian state
• It celebrates the double election of Alexandru Ioan Cuza
• It honors the first step toward the Great Union of 1918
• It recognizes the success of peaceful diplomatic strategy
• It highlights shared cultural and linguistic heritage

How to Celebrate Unification Day

The most prominent tradition on this day is the Hora Unirii, or the Union Round Dance. In city squares throughout the country, people of all ages join hands to form large circles and dance to a traditional folk tune. This dance is based on a poem by Vasile Alecsandri and symbolizes equality and the brotherhood of all citizens. Many participants wear the “ie,” a traditional hand-embroidered Romanian blouse, to display national pride.

In cities like Iași and Bucharest, official ceremonies include military parades and the laying of wreaths at monuments dedicated to Alexandru Ioan Cuza. Churches often hold Te Deum services to offer prayers for the nation. Families use the day off to visit museums or historical sites related to the 1859 union. Schools and cultural centers organize performances and lectures to teach younger generations about the specific political events that led to the creation of their country.

• Join the Hora Unirii dance in a public square
• Attend a military parade or wreath-laying ceremony
• Wear a traditional embroidered Romanian blouse
• Visit a museum dedicated to the 1859 unification
• Listen to traditional folk music and patriotic songs

Unification Day Dates Table