The National Day of Finland is on the 6th December (Independence Day, declaration of independence from Russia 1917). The day is a public holiday in Finland. This is usually celebrated with parades, flag-raising ceremonies, concerts, and other cultural events.
National Day of Finland
Accordingly Finland was once part of the Russian Empire (National Day of Russia). This lasted for more than a century. This from 1809 until 1917 when it gained its independence. During World War II, Finland fought two wars against the Soviet Union, known as the Winter War and the Continuation War. This resulted in territorial losses for Finland. See also the National Day of Sweden for more history.
The Independence Day celebrations typically begin on the eve of the 6th December with a torchlight procession through the streets of Helsinki. Likewise this procession is usually led by the Finish President with thousands of followers also carrying torches as well as flags. On the day itself, there is a formal flag-raising ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki. See also other European National Days on this website.
Public Holidays in Finland
Firstly here are the public holidays in Finland:
- New Year’s Day: January 1st
- Epiphany: January 6th
- Good Friday: April 14th
- Easter Sunday: April 16th
- Easter Monday: April 17th
- May Day: May 1st
- Ascension Day: May 25th
- Whit Sunday: June 4th
- Midsummer Day: June 24th
- All Saints’ Day: November 4th
- Independence Day: December 6th
- Christmas Day: December 25th
- Boxing Day: December 26th
Please note that public holidays in Finland may vary slightly from year to year.
