Albanians do not need much of an excuse to celebrate. Here are the dates worth marking on the calendar, and a few ideas for gifts that mean something. For the full list of public holidays, see our holidays calendar.
17 February: Kosovo’s Independence Day
Kosovo declared its independence on 17 February 2008, and the day is a public holiday there. Expect both the Kosovo flag and the red and black Albanian flag.
14 March: Dita e Verës (Summer Day)
A spring festival that marks the end of winter, traditionally centred on the city of Elbasan and an official holiday in Albania since 2004. Look out for ballokume, the classic Elbasan cookies, and the red and white verore bracelet that people tie on for good luck.
28 and 29 November: Flag Day and Liberation Day
The biggest dates of the year for Albanian pride. Here is how people celebrate.
Weddings, birthdays and new babies
The everyday occasions where a small nod to home goes a long way, especially for family who live far from Albania or Kosovo.
Gift ideas that say “Albanian”
- Something with the eagle: a piece they will use every day, like our eagle clear phone case.
- A watch for the big moments: the TROY watch with its deep blue dial arrives in a gift box.
- A flag for the balcony: simple, and always in use come November.
- Something to eat: a tray of ballokume or homemade byrek never goes unappreciated.
Questions about any piece, or want to order for a group? Email sales@albanianandproud.com.
Sources: Wikipedia: Public holidays in Kosovo · Wikipedia: Dita e Verës · Wikipedia: Verore · Wikipedia: Independence Day (Albania)