What is Finland’s national Independence Day, celebrated annually on 6 December, called?

Finland’s national Independence Day, celebrated annually on 6 December, is called Independence Day.

The date marks Finland’s declaration of independence from Russia on 6 December 1917. The Finnish Parliament approved the declaration during the upheaval that followed the Russian Revolution and the collapse of imperial authority. Finland had been an autonomous grand duchy within the Russian Empire since 1809.

Modern observances include flag displays, church services, visits to cemeteries and war memorials, concerts, and the nationally televised reception hosted by the president at the Presidential Palace. The reception is often called the “Independence Day reception” and is known for its formal guest list and televised greetings.

Finland’s Independence Day is not the same as the Finnish midsummer celebration, which is a separate seasonal holiday. The blue-and-white national colors are especially prominent on 6 December.