Constitution Day is observed in Kazakhstan every August 30 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 1995. This public holiday celebrates the approval of the new constitution by 90% of voters during a referendum, which followed a period of political debate regarding the authority of government branches after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The day is marked by various festivities, including official ceremonies, exhibitions, open-air concerts, outdoor fairs, sporting competitions, and fireworks. The largest celebrations take place in Astana, the capital city, and in Almaty, the largest city and former capital of Kazakhstan.