Old Town in Helsinki, Finland

© Oleksiy Mark/Shutterstoc

Happy birthday, Finland!. Finnish Independence Day

Happy Independence Day, Finland! On this day in 1917, the Nordic nation declared its independence from Russia. Finland had been a grand duchy of the Russian Empire since 1809, and it was part of the Swedish Empire for the previous 600 years. However, during the Russian revolutions of 1917, Finnish nationalists saw their chance to establish an independent nation. After several months of negotiations, Finland declared independence on December 6.

Independence Day celebrations officially begin when the Finnish flag is raised on Tähtitorninmäki hill in Helsinki. People across the country place two blue-and-white candles in their windows, a tradition dating back to the 19th century when two candles were a symbol of Finnish nationalism. In university towns, students take to the streets for torchlit processions. The day's celebrations culminate at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki. It's here that 'Linnan juhlat,' the Castle Ball, takes place. This special gala is broadcast live and watched by millions across the country.