Independence day

President Sauli Niinistö and his wife are greeting the veterans from the palace's balcony

On December 6th 1917, Finland declared its independence to Russia after 108 years of domination. The celebrations in the country include the rise of the national flag on all the official buildings, but also to all private homes. It is a holiday and all the shops, museums, theaters and so on are closed. Commemorative events and speeches are oraganized during the day. At 6pm, Finns light 2 candles behind their window to remember the portest against Russian occupation. There is no special meal for this event. Most of the people are celebrating the event at home, watching war movies (the unknown soldier), and watch the Linnan Juhlat (castle's ball), the official ceremony where about 2000 special guests are invited at the President's place. But in 2013 due to the renovations at the palace, the ceremony will be exceptionally held in Tampere. On Monday, everybody will comment the event, and ladies will check if the magazines and newspapers have the same tastes about the dresses.

Hyvää Itsenäisyyspäivää!

You can follow the celebration starting at 5:15pm live on YLE (visible worldwide): Watch the Linnan Juhlat

Storm warning

The Xaver storm is on its way to Finland after have cause important damages in the UK, Belguim, the Nederlands and Norther Germany. In the following 24 hours, the powerful wind will hit the Finnish West and South coasts, and cross the half of the country. Difficult road conditions have to be expected and trees might fall. Power shortage might also happen in some areas. High waves are expected as well, especially in the Turku archipelago and near Aland. It is highly recommended to stay home.

Read more on the storm alerts on the following page: Finnish meteorological institute