Finnish Independence Day
December 6th… Happy Independence Day Finland!
December 6th 1917 was when Finland officially became independent from Russia.
The typical Independence Day celebrations in Finland include;
• Patriotic speeches
• Special church services
• Raising the Finnish flag in Tähtitorninmäki (Observatory Hill) In Helsinki
• Official religious service at the Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral
• Finnish TV channel YLE broadcasts the movie adaptation of ‘The Unknown Soldier’ based on the iconic novel by Väinö Linna usually they show the 1955 film or sometimes the 1985 remake.
• Traditionally, in the evening, Finnish families will light two candles at each window of their homes.
• Lots of blue and white decorations and flags are placed around.
• In the evening, a gala reception is held for approximately 2000 invited guests at the Presidential Palace. This event, known as Linnan juhlat (the castle ball), is broadcast on national television and is always a big hit with the viewing public
I hope you all celebrated!
Yaymie
xxx
