The center of Targoviste city came alive on Friday as students, teachers, soldiers, local officials and residents joined forces in the annual 'Tricolor March', carrying a 100-meter Romanian flag through the streets before hoisting it proudly atop the Chindia Tower.
The initiative, organized by the 'Vasile Carlova' Junior High School, has become a tradition marking the Little Union of the Romanian Principalities.
Despite frosty, foggy weather, the brass band set the tone with patriotic songs, leading the procession of servicemen, officials and students. Passersby applauded, some even stepping in to help carry the massive flag.
At the Chindia Tower, the tricolor was raised high, while students offered an artistic program - singing patriotic songs, waving flags and drawing cheers from the crowd.
"I came with my class, we carried the tricolor from the center to the tower. We learned about the Union in history, and today I saw it celebrated. It was a beautiful day," said sixth-grader Petru Valentin, smiling as his classmates performed on stage.
Children waved to onlookers during the parade, snapped photos alongside soldiers, and applauded their peers who sang patriotic songs. Many said they wanted to show their parents the pictures as proof of their pride in carrying the flag.
Mayor Daniel Cristian Stan joined the event, quizzing the students: "What do we celebrate on January 24?"
"The unification of Moldova with Wallachia!," came the resounding reply.
The mayor praised the school's leadership and reminded participants of the historical importance of the day: "After the unification of January 24, 1859, the first institutions of the Romanian state were crystallized. In 1866, Romania had its first Constitution, paving the way for the Greater Union of 1918. These are essential moments in our nation's history. I congratulate the 'Vasile Carlova' School for this initiative and thank all of you who took part. Many happy returns, Romanians! Many happy returns, Romania!"
The celebration ended in front of the Chindia Tower with a traditional ring dance, symbolizing unity and joy, as the tricolor fluttered above the city.
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