Today is 26th of January, a public holiday. It’s a time full of joy, smiles, fun and meetings with family and friends. This is because today is a National Day of Australia. One of the most important days in a year in the Aussie land, celebrated in a truly Australian way. Celebrations start right away in the morning and last till evening. Most cities prepare shows, concerts, races, picnics and bbqs. Streets are full of people dressed up in Australian colours or with flags painted on their faces. Windows, balconies and cars are also decorated with countless number of flags. All beaches and parks are full. Well no wonders, as these places are where Aussies love celebrating everything.

Sydney makes sure no one will be bored during this day. Especially in Sydney Harbour’s surroundings. Air show featuring helicopters and jet fighters, ships race and Red Berets parachuting with Australian flag are just a couple of attractions waiting for these who decide to visit Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

But what is the whole fuss about? – you might ask. So, the 26^th January is an anniversary of first colony being formed, called New South Wales. This date marks also a time when first British ships arrived on the coast of Australia in 1788. Unfortunately, not everyone sees 26th January as a joyful event. For Aborigines it is a time of sorrow. It is a day, when white people invaded their land. Hence the name they call it the “Invasion Day”. The Australia’s birthday is really controversial. On one hand some may see it as a celebration of one country being invaded by another. But some try to see it as a time of reconciliation and union between native Australians and newcomers from different word parts. Because this is what Australia is like. Diversified. And that’s what makes it so special for us.