Mourning Day is observed in Libya every October 26 to commemorate those who died during the Italian occupation of the country. This significant official holiday remembers the tragic events of 1911, when Italian troops killed over 4,000 Libyan civilians and began a systematic process of mass deportation that lasted until 1943. On this day, Libyans engage in various customs to honor their history, including wearing black clothing and flying the national flag at half-mast. Public services such as telephones, post offices, shops, and public transport cease operations from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, national television channels broadcast programs in black-and-white to reflect the somber nature of the day.