Today’s Doodle honours Finland’s Independence Day, also known as itsenäisyyspäivä in Finnish. The Finnish Parliament formally declared independence on this day in 1917.
The Finnish flag’s national colours of blue and white, as portrayed in today’s Doodle artwork, bring the country together amid a mix of solemn and familial Independence Day customs. The national colours decorate everything from sweets in bakeries to decorations in shops, and the flag flies high on street poles around the country.
Some people pay their respects to relatives’ graves or light a pair of blue and white candles near their window sills, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century, to commemorate previous generations’ sacrifices. Many Finns honour their heritage by hosting a lavish dinner for family and friends.
Millions of people watch the annual Independence Day Reception, known as the Linnan juhlat or “The Castle Ball,” in the evening, which is cancelled this year because to the epidemic, but a national day TV broadcast will still air. Citizens usually watch the performance with friends and family while eating traditional Finnish dishes like Ruisleipä (rye bread) with salmon or smoked reindeer cold cuts, and Leipäjuusto (Finnish Squeaky Cheese).
Hyvää itsenäisyyspäivää! Happy Independence Day, Finland!
