This happy event is celebrated every year as the Kingdoms National Day. Previously a one-day holiday only, celebrated on 16 December, National Day was extended to a two-day holiday in 1999 courtesy of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The 16th and the 17th of December are celebrated by the Bahraini people across the country. December 16 in Bahrain is National Day, not only celebrating the independence achieved from the British in 1971, but also an expression of gratitude from the people to the king for the reforms introduced in 2000 that led Bahrain to democracy and stability. National Day is celebrated nationwide in Bahrain. Since 1999, the holiday has been extended to two days, from December 16 to 17, courtesy of his majesty King Hamad. Fireworks, laser shows, colorful floats, carnivals, and concerts are just a few of the national events organized to celebrate this day. For Bahrainis this is more than just another holiday; it is a day of gratitude for the king’s social and political reforms.