Independence Day in Finland

A fixed date and a public holiday

The Finnish Parliament approved the declaration of independence on 6 December 1917. The University of Helsinki Almanac Office says the decision to celebrate that date as the anniversary was made in November 1919. Finland’s law provides for 6 December to be celebrated each year as a general festive and rest day; the date stays fixed, and the calendar lists no substitute day when it falls on a weekend.[1][2]

Independence Day is also an official flag day. Government agencies and public institutions are required to fly the Finnish flag on official flag days, and private citizens may fly it too. The flag is normally lowered at 8 p.m. on Independence Day.[1]

From Russian grand duchy to independence

Before independence, Finland was an autonomous Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire. On 6 December 1917, Parliament approved a declaration drafted by the Senate under the leadership of Pehr Evind Svinhufvud. Independence Day recalls that parliamentary decision and the beginning of Finland’s independent period.[3]

Commemoration and home traditions

The day combines remembrance with celebration. Services, tributes at soldiers’ graves and war memorials, and student processions have featured in national commemorations; a Finnish Government account of the centenary describes these observances in several parts of the country.[4]

At home, some people place blue and white candles in their windows. The President’s Independence Day reception at the Presidential Palace is another prominent tradition: the President and spouse host invited guests, and the event receives national television coverage.[5][6]

What visitors should expect

The public holiday means many people have a paid day off, although the University of Helsinki Almanac Office describes it as paid for a large part of the population rather than everyone. The holiday law establishes the day but does not set nationwide opening hours for shops, banks, restaurants or public transport. Check individual businesses and transport operators before making plans.[1][2]