TWO CANDLES IN EVERY WINDOW

Every year on December 6th, Finns place two glowing candles in their windows as a symbol of their freedom. Over a hundred years ago, these two candles were more than a symbolic decoration. The two lit candles served as a beacon to signal young soldiers that the house was a safe place of refuge in which to seek shelter. These luminaries were the Finnish people’s silent protest against their oppressor, Russia. 

Today, the people of Finland observe Itsenäisyyspäivä, Finnish Independence Day with happy celebrations. November and December are joyful months in Finnish culture; they are full of winter festivals and holiday gatherings. Finnish Independence Day, while somber in history, is now remembered with patriotic pride. You can find flag raising ceremonies, dinner parties, blue and white festive cakes, and concerts all in celebration of Finland’s independence. The president of Finland even hosts an annual gala. The event is televised nationally and many Finns tune in from their homes. It is a day of truly celebrating and honoring the freedom to live life to its fullest.