Evacuation Day is observed in Tunisia every October 15, commemorating the retreat of the last French troops from Bizerte in 1963. This public holiday marks the anniversary of the end of French military presence in Tunisia, which began when the country became a French protectorate in 1881 and gained independence in 1956. The conflict escalated in 1961 when Tunisian forces blockaded Bizerte, leading to military actions by France. International condemnation followed, prompting the UN Security Council to urge France to withdraw its troops, which it did on October 15, 1963. Celebrations primarily take place in Bizerte, where the President of Tunisia attends an official ceremony. Since 2011, Evacuation Day festivities have expanded to cities across Tunisia, highlighting the significance of national sovereignty and independence.