Independence Day in Slovakia is observed every July 17 and commemorates the anniversary of the Declaration of Sovereignty of the Slovak Republic, which was adopted by the National Council in 1992. This day serves as a remembrance of Slovakia's journey towards independence, following its historical ties to Hungary and its time as part of Czechoslovakia, which lasted over seventy years. The declaration marked a significant step in Slovakia's path to becoming an independent state, officially achieved on January 1, 1993. While Independence Day is recognized, it is not a national holiday and is treated as a working day. The day is distinct from Republic Day, celebrated on January 1, which marks the official independence of Slovakia.