After sunset on Wednesday 1 July, the exterior façade of the Library of Birmingham will be lit up blue and white to mark Somali Independence Day.

Somali Independence Day is marked each year on 1 July. It celebrates the union of two territories in 1960 to form the Somali Republic.

The day is an important moment of national pride, often recognised through cultural celebrations, music and displays of the Somali flag.

Article published: 24 June 2026