Republic Day is observed in Trinidad and Tobago every September 24 to commemorate the day the country became a republic. The holiday marks the anniversary of the first session of Parliament following the abolition of the monarchy in 1976, which transformed Trinidad and Tobago into a republic within the Commonwealth. This date was chosen to provide citizens with two public holidays, separating it from Independence Day, which is celebrated on August 1. Republic Day celebrations typically include official speeches, parades, dances, and various festive events. The holiday was not celebrated from 1999 to 2001 due to the introduction of Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day but was reinstated in 2002 and has been observed annually since then.