Independence Day

Independence Day (FIN) History

Finland Independence Day is a national commemoration of Finland's declaration of independence from Russia in 1917. This occasion holds immense significance for the Finnish people and is a symbol of their resolve and resilience. The day is known for its various festivities and events all over the country, with moments dedicated to remembering the sacrifices made by the nation's people in the pursuit of freedom.

The historical backdrop of Finland's Independence Day is its struggle toward forming a sovereign state, initially under the rule of Sweden and subsequently under Russia in 1809. The country's journey towards secession was further triggered by the political turmoil during World War I, leading to the Finnish Declaration of Independence. Finland's independence serves as an important example of a nation championing democratic values and the importance of self-determination. Finland joined the European Union in 1995, further establishing its commitment to democracy, human rights, and regional stability within Europe.

Finland Independence Day is commemorated by Finnish communities through social gatherings and cultural showcasing of Finnish traditions, such as food, music, and dance. Embassies and Finnish institutions across the EU hold receptions and events in honor of the day, emphasizing and celebrating the solidarity between Finland and the European community. Finnish Independence Day is observed on December 6th.

Top facts about Independence Day

• The colours of Finland’s flag, white and blue, have become a theme of the day. Bakeries make cakes in those colours and people use them to decorate their homes too.
• The President holds an Independence Day reception for VIPs and selected guest. The attendees include high-ranking military officers, politicians, police officers and diplomats. Joining the spectacle are prominent athletes, entertainers and activists. About half the population tunes in. TV reporters then comment on what people wear for hours.
• Finland was the first European country to grant women the right to vote and stand for election in 1906. This came as one of the direct results of a country-wide General Strike in 1905.
• Finnish Independence Day celebrates Finland’s qualities such as hard work and grit that helped it to gain and defend its freedom.
• The people of Finland feel deeply that they cannot fulfil their national duty and their universal human obligations without a complete sovereignty. The century-old desire for freedom awaits fulfilment now; The People of Finland has to step forward as an independent nation among the other nations in the world. – Finnish Declaration of Independence 1917

In the News and Trending in the EU for Independence Day

Independence Day Top Things to Do

• Decorate your house with white and blue. The colours of the countries flag provide the visual theme for Finnish Independence Day.
• Enjoy some time away from the social aspects of Finnish identity and take in the natural landscape. Finland is covered in forest and has some true wilderness close to the Arctic Circle or explore one of the 179.584 islands Finland has to offer.
• Bake some cakes and decorate them white and blue. Finland has its own cake called Täytekakut, which is similar to a gateau.
• Light two candles and put them in your window. This tradition marks several points in Finnish history.
• See the torch procession in Helsinki. People wear white caps and carry torches, as per tradition, from Hietaniemi Cemetery to Senate Square to listen to speeches and music.