In 1917, Finland made a choice that changed its future when it declared independence from the Russian Empire. December 6 became the day the nation claimed its freedom and began a new chapter after centuries of foreign rule.
Today, this day is not only about celebration but also about remembering the struggles and sacrifices that made independence possible. To understand why Finland celebrates Independence Day, we need to look at the history behind it and the traditions that keep the story alive.
Historical Background
In early times, Finland was first a part of Sweden. The war between Sweden and Napoleon started, and Russia took over Finland in 1808. During the Russian Revolution in 1917, Finland got the opportunity to gain its rights and secede from Russia.
The deal got done on 6th December, and hence the day is celebrated since then. It’s not only Independence Day for Finns, but it’s also a very patriotic day as they celebrate the events of the Second World War on this day.
It is a day of celebrating sovereignty and sacrifices by raising the flag and displaying white and blue colors throughout the country.
Facts about the Independence Day of Finland
Let’s go through some facts about the Independence Day of Finland.
Independence History:
Finland was a part of Sweden for almost 700 years, invaded by the Russian Empire in 1808, and became a Grand Duchy of Russia in 1809. In 1917, Finland was separated from Russia.
Independence Day:
Finland got separated from Russia in 1917 and celebrated independence on 6th December with unity and pride. 6th December is a public holiday in Finland, celebrated every year in honor of reflection and celebration.
Celebration of Independence Day:
Independence Day in Finland is celebrated by raising the flag in the presence of the country’s leaders. Blue and white colors of flag are shed all over the country as a sign of pride and remembrance. Many more traditions are celebrated during the day to show patriotism.
Challenges:
The separation of Finland was not easy at all. Finns fought during the Winter War to preserve sovereignty from 1939 to 1940. Despite being weak, they continued to fight and became a defining moment in history.
Importance of Independence Day:
Independence Day of Finland is much more than just an independence day for Finns. Finns celebrate the sacrifices of people who fought for their independence and freedom.
It is also the start of the Christmas season, and people gather to celebrate with their families. It is a reflection of celebrating the country’s freedom and achievements.
Famous Finnish Independence Day Traditions
To celebrate Finnish Independence Day, there’s a special way. There are some traditions that Finns follow on their Independence Day. Here are some traditions:
Blow Candles:
Finns celebrated their Independence Day by blowing blue and white candles. They usually blow two candles, one white and one blue, as a sign of Finnish nationalism.
War Graves:
On Independence Day, Finns mostly visit war graves and memorial stones to blow candles on them. The cemetery shines beautifully with candles all over the space. Finns also held prayers and a parade for war graves, offered by students, kids, and parents in respect.
Watch Movies:
There are some channels in Finland, such as YLE (Finnish national broadcast channel), that show movies on Independence Day. One of the most famous movies is The Unknown Soldier, which shows what happened during the Second World War in Finland.
Blue & White Color:
Blue and white colors are the national colors of Finland, and they are portrayed all over the country on Independence Day. People also make some of their favorite dishes on this day.
Presidential Independence Day Reception:
Every Finn watches TV during the special time of the day, which is 7 pm! The official presidential Independence Day reception, known as Linnan Juhlat, is held and broadcast in the presidential castle in Helsinki at this time of day.
What an Independence Day Looks Like to a Typical Finn?
Here’s what Independence Day looks like to a typical Finn:
Morning and Daytime Traditions
An Independence Day in Finland starts by raising a Finnish flag in Helsinki Park. It is the start of the observance of the country with singing and shouting with pride. People, celebrating Finnish Independence Day in their homes, blow two blue and white candles on their windows to show their love.
There is a Christian service held at Helsinki Cathedral, attended by public figures and government leaders. It is shown live on television for Finns to see from all over the country. It shows the whole journey of Finland towards freedom and unity.
Graduates from different towns and areas take part in the torchlight procession to show their dedication to the commemoration of this memorable day.
Evening Events and Reflections
Despite all these traditions, the most joyful and memorable event of the day is when the president gives a speech and tells about the whole journey in his own words. People watch him on television while sitting and enjoying themselves in their homes.
An Independence Day parade is held by soldiers on this special day in honor of war martyrs. At the end of the day, people see the movie The Unknown Soldier, which describes the whole story in a short film. You can see this movie yourself and decide if it’s worth seeing or not!
Conclusion:
Finland’s Independence Day is a moment to honor the nation’s freedom and the people who sacrificed to secure it. Celebrated each year on December 6, it shows pride with reflection, reminding Finns of the struggles, unity, and resilience that shaped their history.
From simple candlelight in windows to national events watched across the country, each tradition carries the story of independence forward, keeping its spirit alive for future generations.
You can also explore Finland’s rich culture and traditions, such as Vappu, a vibrant spring festival filled with parades, picnics, and community celebrations that bring people together in a joyful display of national spirit.
