| For Finland forever! Finland gained independence from Russia on 6 December 1917 when the Finnish Declaration of Independence was signed changing its status from an autonomous Russian Grand Duchy to an independent sovereign nation state. Independence Day is a national holiday and is marked by a series of celebrations which take place throughout the country and particularly in the bigger towns and cities. Traditionally, events used to be quite a sombre affair when candles would be lit and placed in windows to symbolise the light of freedom. Nowadays celebrations are a bit more lively with parades, music concerts and some festivals. A special HONOUR to the Finnish war veterans, who fought to preserve Finland's independence in 1939- 1945 against the Soviet Union and "Germany"! |
