TIRANA, March 14 /ATA/ – The Summer Day atmosphere is already present in Albania’s main cities, with celebrations having kicked off Elbasan, central Albania, the traditional host of the country’s sole official holiday with pagan roots marking the end of winter, celebrated nationwide every March 14 since more than a decade now.
The atmosphere in Tirana is also vibrant with the main boulevard already decorated with big flowers and dozens of entertainment events scheduled to take place.
The celebrations started earlier on Monday with Tirana municipality having scheduled a series of events for all age groups.
During Summer Day celebrations, the stage in front of the government seat will host live concert shows by the Opera and Ballet Ensemble, the Tirana Philharmonic orchestra, young and established artists and live music by the Urban Band and the renowned singer Juliana Pasha.
Tirana Philharmonic orchestra will perform on the Murat Toptani pedestrian street.
A collection of retro vintage cars in Albania will be showcased at Tirana’s main Skanderbeg square, with the Albanian vintage car admirers being provided the opportunity to see a myriad of European models of cars, motorcycles, bicycles and other vehicles used in the country over the years.
Tirana will also host a series of other activities, including a traditional fair of locally grown produce, a book fair and various entertainment and sport events for children and adults.
Until a decade ago, summer’s Day was mostly celebrated in Elbasan.
Approved by the Albanian Parliament in 2004 as an official and national holiday, this day of pagan celebration symbolizes the rebirth of nature, the awakening from a long dark winter and a general rejuvenation of one’s spirit.
The celebration of Summer Day dates back to ancient times in the city of Elbasan, which due in part to its location in the geographic center of the country, was considered the umbilical city for all of Albania.
According to an Albanian legend, the Mountain Muse, who was the goddess of hunting, forests, and all things related to nature, would usher in summer by coming out of her temple on the 14th of March.
While thousands of people still rush to Elbasan, where the holiday originates, celebrations in Tirana are becoming even bigger ever since Summer Day was announced a national holiday.
/u.sh/
