After sunset on Monday 24 August, the exterior façade of the Library of Birmingham will be lit up blue and yellow to mark Ukraine Independence Day 2026.

Ukraine's Independence Day is celebrated on 24 August each year. It marks the day in 1991 when Ukraine's parliament adopted the Declaration of Independence and Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union.

Large public events and military parades are currently on hold because of the ongoing war.

People continue to mark the day in other ways, including:

• honouring members of the armed forces
• remembering those who have lost their lives
• showing support for Ukraine's independence and national identity

Article published: 19 August 2026