Madagascar celebrated its 66th Independence Anniversary with immense popular fervor. The event united and filled all Malagasy people with pride.
From the first light of dawn yesterday, a crowd queued in front of the six gates of the Barea Stadium in Mahamasina to attend the National Day celebration. The stadium, which has a capacity of forty thousand people, was completely full. The public came with family, friends, or colleagues.
Some arrived on “Foton” buses mobilized by the State to transport those wishing to attend the event, while others came by their own means.
Everyone was moved by a deep sense of national pride. Some wore the national colors, while others donned traditional Malagasy attire, as encouraged by the leadership. “I wanted my children to discover this fervor with their own eyes, so that national pride takes root in them from an early age,” says Masimalala, a mother dressed in traditional clothes for the occasion.
Some returned empty-handed, unable to enter the stadium. Around 10 a.m., the gates were closed. “We were told the stadium was full, yet we can clearly see there are seats still available,” regrets Ludovic, who came with his friends, while watching the live broadcast of the event on his phone.
Regarding the crowd, Colonel Mario Ravalison, head of security, explains: “Entry is by invitation and badge. Once that stage is passed, no one else should enter, because we know the capacity of this venue. As soon as it is full, we stop admissions for everyone’s safety.”
On the evening of June 25, a human tide also invaded the heart of Antananarivo. Young and old gathered to experience the magic of the fireworks display, carrying lanterns. Every time the sky lit up, spectators exclaimed in wonder. “We forget the difficulties of daily life; we are just proud to be Malagasy,” says Tsitoaina Raveloarisoa, a father. The smiles on faces testify to the importance of this historic gathering for the country’s sovereignty.
The celebration continued in the privacy of households, where everyone prepared a festive meal consisting of poultry, zebu meat, pork, or seafood.
In the peripheral communes and provinces, the atmosphere was just as electric. Public squares hosted parades, concerts, cultural entertainment, and gatherings that extended the festivities late into the evening.
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-27 06:00:36 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/antananarivo-la-fete-nationale-rythme.html