Celebrating Freedom: Finland Independence Day

Finland Independence Day, marked every year on December 6th, is a time of national pride and reflection. This day commemorates Finland’s declaration of independence from Russia in 1917, a pivotal moment that shaped the nation’s future. It’s a day when Finns honor their history and the resilience of their forebears with a blend of solemn ceremonies and festive events. From the capital city of Helsinki to the smallest rural villages, the Finnish flag flies high, and people come together to remember the journey towards sovereignty. The day is filled with traditions, such as the President’s Ball, and is a reminder of the values of freedom, democracy, and the right of nations to determine their own destiny.

ABOUT FINLAND

Location and Geography Finland, officially known as the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It borders Sweden to the northwest, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east, with the Gulf of Bothnia to the west and the Gulf of Finland to the south, opposite Estonia¹. Finland covers an area of 338,145 square kilometers.

Demographics As of 2023, Finland has a population of approximately 5.6 million¹. The vast majority of the population are ethnic Finns. The official languages are Finnish and Swedish, with Swedish being the native language of 5.2% of the population.

Government Finland is a unitary parliamentary republic. The current President is Alexander Stubb and the Prime Minister is Petteri Orpo.

Economy As of 2023, the total GDP (PPP) is estimated at $335.760 billion, and the per capita GDP (PPP) is $59,869. The country’s currency is the Euro.

Culture Finland is known for its unique culture, which is a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from Sweden and Russia. The country is also known for its love of nature, with nearly two-thirds of the country covered by thick woodlands.

History Finland was a part of Sweden from the 12th century until 1809, and then it became a Russian grand duchy until declaring independence on December 6, 1917. Finland’s area decreased by about one-tenth during the 1940s, when it ceded the Petsamo (Pechenga) area and a large part of southeastern Karelia to the Soviet Union.

HISTORY OF FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY

Finland’s journey to independence began in the early 20th century amidst the tumultuous changes of World War I. The pivotal moment came on December 6, 1917, when Finland declared its independence from the Russian Empire, which was then under Bolshevik rule. This declaration was the culmination of a series of events that started with the power vacuum created by the Russian Revolution. The Finnish Parliament adopted the Declaration of Independence, which was proposed by the Senate led by Pehr Evind Svinhufvud, marking a new chapter in Finnish history. Initially, Independence Day was a somber occasion, reflecting the hardships of the Finnish Civil War and the nation’s complex political landscape. Over time, it evolved into a celebration of Finnish culture and heritage, with traditions such as lighting two candles in each window and the decoration of homes and public spaces in the national colors of blue and white. Today, Independence Day is a significant public holiday in Finland, observed with various festivities including parades, concerts, and the President’s Independence Day Ball.

SIGNIFICANCE OF FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY

Finland’s Independence Day holds profound significance as it commemorates the country’s declaration of independence from Russia in 1917. This day is not just a celebration but a solemn remembrance of Finland’s journey to sovereignty and the sacrifices made along the way. It’s a day imbued with national pride and reflection, honoring the resilience of the Finnish people during their pursuit of self-governance, especially during the challenging times of World War II. The events leading up to the historic declaration were set against the backdrop of World War I and the Russian revolutions, which provided Finland with the opportunity to assert its autonomy. The Finnish Senate’s declaration was swiftly followed by the Parliament’s ratification, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. Today, the day is observed with various traditions, including the lighting of two candles in each window, symbolizing the spirit of freedom and the enduring light of independence.

FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

Finland’s Independence Day is marked by patriotic displays, including the flying of the Finnish flag and the lighting of two candles in each window in the evening, a tradition dating back to the 1920s. Official festivities often include a flag-raising ceremony in Helsinki, church services, and a presidential reception, which is a highlight of the celebration.

• Light special white-and-blue candles and place them by the window to honor Finnish nationalism, a tradition dating back to the 19th century.
• Visit war graves and memorial stones to pay respects, with many towns organizing candle parades or student gatherings.
• Watch the movie “The Unknown Soldier” which is broadcasted by YLE, the Finnish national broadcaster, depicting the Second World War in Finland.
• Decorate homes and public spaces in blue and white, the national colors of Finland, and enjoy special dishes like gingerbread cookies or puffy plum tarts.
• Participate in the Presidential Independence Day Reception, a highly anticipated event broadcasted at 7 pm.
• Engage in educational activities in schools that teach students about Finland’s history, culture, and the significance of independence.
• Join community activities such as tree planting to contribute to the nation’s development and environmental sustainability.

FACTS ABOUT FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY

Here are some interesting facts about FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY:

• Finland’s Independence Day is celebrated on December 6th, marking the country’s declaration of independence from Russia in 1917.
• The day is a national public holiday and a flag flying day in Finland, observed with various traditions and festivities.
• One of the most poignant traditions is the lighting of two candles in each window of Finnish homes in the evening, a custom dating back to the 1920s as a silent protest against Russian oppression.
• Official Independence Day festivities often begin with the raising of the Finnish flag on Tähtitorninmäki (Observatory Hill) in Helsinki.
• The Presidential Independence Day Reception, also known as Linnanjuhlat, is a highlight of the day, where distinguished guests from various sectors of Finnish society are invited.
• Many Finns visit war graves and memorial stones to pay their respects, and in many towns, there are candle parades of students or children.
• The Finnish national broadcaster, YLE, traditionally shows the movie “The Unknown Soldier” (Tuntematon Sotilas), which describes Finland’s experiences during the Second World War.
• Independence Day has no special dishes associated with it, but it is common for people to have a fancier dinner, and many bake gingerbread cookies or puffy plum tarts, which are seasonal treats before Christmas.

FINLAND INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES