In trying to schedule a rental car return early October 8th, I found it was a bank holiday and the main office of Sixt was closed. I can return the car the night before...but what can I expect in Dubrovnik on October 8th? Will it be like a Sunday where stores are closed but some places like restaurants are open? Or will it be more like a US July 4th where most places are closed?

Also, since the siege of Dubrovnik was a big part of the early hostilities in the war, might there be any ceremonies in Dubrovnik that day? If not, perhaps I could keep the car an extra day and do a day trip down to Montenegro...

ttt

On Oct 8th, most stores will probably be closed, but many restaurants and cafes will still be open. I don't think there will be any ceremonies or at least not anything very public. Most people just enjoy the day at home with their families. If you have the day free, I would make the day trip to Montenegro.

I've been in the Dubrovnik area on Independence Day the last 2 years - and will be again this year!

I've not noticed anything very different to any other day. There are lots of flags flying, and during the morning there is a parade in the Old Town and people wearing national dress(last year I was up on Mt Srd at that time, and spent the afternoon in Cavtat). There are still most of the boat trips going from the harbour, all the shops and restaurants are still open, as are the Walls.

Remember the Old Town is very much a tourist destination so all continues as usual. I think you would find out in the 'suburbs' such as Gruz and Babin Kuk it might be much more of a Bank Holiday with more places closed.

Have a great time - I can't wait to be back there!