North Cyprus celebrates the 51st anniversary of Peace and Freedom Day with official parades in Lefkoşa and Gazimağusa. Learn about road closures, alternate routes, and event details.
North Cyprus is set to commemorate the 51st anniversary of Peace and Freedom Day with official parades in Lefkoşa and Gazimağusa on Sunday, July 20, 2025. The annual holiday honors the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, carried out by the Turkish Armed Forces, and remains one of the most significant national celebrations in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
🎖️ Where Are the Parades Taking Place?
The celebrations will feature official parades in:
- Lefkoşa (Nicosia) – starting on Dr. Fazıl Küçük Boulevard, which will be closed to traffic from 15:30
- Gazimağusa (Famagusta) – on İsmet İnönü Boulevard, between the Sulu Circle and the UN Camp, closed from 07:00 until the end of the ceremonies
🚧 Road Closures & Traffic Warnings
The TRNC Police Press Office has issued traffic warnings and urged the public to:
- Avoid parking along designated parade routes
- Follow all traffic signs and signals
- Use alternative roads provided below
🛣️ Alternative Routes Announced by Police
For Drivers Coming from Gazimağusa:
- 🏥 To Near East University: Use Near East Boulevard via the Lefkoşa Northern Ring Road
- 🏙️ To Lefkoşa City Center:
- Option 1: Turn left at Hamitköy Roundabout, proceed via Mimar Mehmet Vahip Street and Şehit İsmail Beyoğlu Street
- Option 2: Turn left at Honda Traffic Lights, use Şehit Mustafa Ahmet Ruso Street
- 🌉 To Güzelyurt:
- Use Lefkoşa Northern Ring Road via Gönyeli Roundabout
- Or take Metehan-Alayköy Ring Road via Citroën Lights on Mehmet Akif Street
For Drivers from Güzelyurt:
- Use either the Alayköy-Metehan Ring Road or go through the Gönyeli Roundabout, then continue on Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu Street (State Hospital route)
For Drivers from Girne (Kyrenia):
- Take the Girne–Lefkoşa Main Road, pass through Gönyeli Roundabout, and continue to Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu Street
🇹🇷 Why It Matters
Peace and Freedom Day is more than a holiday — it’s a symbol of sovereignty, resilience, and national pride for the Turkish Cypriot people. The parades, featuring military honors and cultural pride, are a reminder of the 1974 Peace Operation, which led to the establishment of peace in the northern part of the island.
Stay safe, plan your routes in advance, and enjoy the national spirit of July 20th in North Cyprus! northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io