August 2nd (July 20th according to the Old Calendar) is dedicated by the Orthodox Church to the Old Testament prophet and wonderworker, Saint Elijah (Ilija). In Macedonia, for 82 years, this date has been celebrated as a national holiday in honor of the "Two Ilindens."
On Ilinden in 1903, the Macedonian Revolutionary Organization raised the long-planned uprising against Ottoman rule, aiming to create a free and autonomous Macedonia. Despite the profound dedication and self-sacrifice of the insurgents, the uprising was ultimately suppressed in blood. The highest achievement of this epic struggle was the liberation of the town of Kruševo and the ten days of freedom under a popular government, known as the Kruševo Republic. Despite its downfall, the ideals of the Ilinden Uprising remained a guiding inspiration for the people in Macedonia for generations to come.
During World War II, Macedonian partisans joined the Anti-Fascist Coalition forces in their fight for ultimate liberation and the creation of a better, more just world. Following three years of decisive resistance against the occupying forces led by Nazi Germany, conditions matured for convening the Anti-Fascist Assembly for the National Liberation of Macedonia (ASNOM). August 2nd was chosen as the historic date for its first session.
On this "Second Ilinden," held at the Monastery of St. Prohor Pčinjski, the assembled delegates passed the decision to proclaim ASNOM as the supreme legislative and executive body, as well as the highest organ of state authority of democratic Macedonia. Alongside this, other state-building decisions were adopted, laying the foundations for the new Democratic Federal Macedonia within a federal Yugoslavia. In accordance with ASNOM’s decisions, August 2nd – Ilinden was officially declared a national and state holiday.
Ilinden remains permanently etched in the Macedonian cultural tradition and is solemnly celebrated every year with widespread public gatherings.