Health Day in Turkmenistan is celebrated annually on the first Saturday in November. Established in 2000 by President Saparmurat Niyazov, this day focuses on promoting a healthy lifestyle and sports through various events and activities. A notable custom is for many citizens to ascend the Path of Health, a footpath in the Kopet Dag mountains, which was created to encourage regular exercise. Despite the celebration, the health care system in Turkmenistan has faced significant challenges, deteriorating since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, with the abolition of free public health care in 2004 and the closure of hospitals outside major cities. On this day, government officials typically deliver speeches highlighting the supposed achievements of the health care system. Additionally, Turkmenistan observes World Health Day on April 7.