Independence Day of Finland

On the 4-th of December 1917, the first government of Svinhuwood accepted the Independence Declaration of Finland where it was stated about political independence of Finland. On the 6-th of December governmental proposal was encouraged by Eduskunta (Finnish parliament). For announcement of independence 100 deputies voted, and 88 ones were against this legislation act.

Celebration of Independence Day begins on the 6-th of December at 9 am with official ceremony of flying of the state flag. The solemnity takes place in the centre of Helsinki, on the hill Tähtitorninmäki, and is accompanied by declamations and festive songs.

There is also a ceremony of flower-laying at the graves of heroes at cemetery in Hietaniemen where Prime Minister takes part, and you may observe public worship in Cathedral church of Helsinki where President and members of State Council are present. Then in the residence of the President there is a diplomatic reception in honor of holiday.

From 6 till 8 pm many Finnish people enlighten in the windows of their houses two candles in national colors – blue and white.