Estonian Independence Day

Quick Facts - EE

AKA NameEesti Vabariigi aastapäev
Hashtags#EstoniaIndependenceDay, #14August
2023 Date24 February 2023
2024 Date24 February 2024

2023 Holidays & Dates

Estonian & Common Holidays
Misc. & Int'l. Observances
Christian Holidays
Estonian Independence Day

Estonian Independence Day History

Independence Day in Estonia celebrates Estonia's official and public proclamation of independence. On 24 February 1918, the Maapaev, a six-member Provisional National Council, elected a three-person Salvation Committee, the Paastekomitee. This Salvation Committee drafter a declaration of independence, later approved by the Provisional Council and publicly declared. Following the declaration, Estonia was then forced to fight for its independence against Soviet Russia and German forces, a war which was eventually won and commemorated as Victory Day.

Independence Day in Estonia is celebrated annually on 24 February. While under Soviet occupation, the holiday was suspended but then was later restored on the Day of Restoration of Independence in 1991.

Estonian Independence Day Facts & Quotes

  • On 8 April 1917, Estonian organizations and military personnel of around 40 000 people held a demonstration in St. Petersburg in support of Estonian self-government.
  • On 12 April 1917, the Russian Provisional Government signed the Law on Estonian Autonomy. The law united the Livonian counties of Tartu, Võru, Viljandi, Pärnu and Saaremaa with Estonia.
  • Estonia secured its borders and signed the Tartu Peace Treaty with Soviet Russia on 2 February 1920. It would remain independent from Soviet rule until the 40s.
  • On 24 February 1989, the red flag of Soviet Estonia was replaced by the blue, black and white Estonian flag on Toompea, Estonia's Town Hall. Since that time Independence Day has been celebrated as a public holiday once again in Estonia.
  • Freedom is never dear at any price. It is the breath of life. What would a man not pay for living? - Mahatma Ghandi

Estonian Independence Day Top Events and Things to Do

  • Place a wreath or flowers on the graves of Estonian state figures. The wreaths are often placed at the grave of President K. Pats. Wreaths are then placed at the base of the Monument of the War of Independence at Parnu Alevi Cemetery. There is also another monument to the War of Independence on Vabaduse Square by the Guard Batallion.
  • Attend the large Defence Force Parade on Parnu's Central Square.
  • Join in on the Independence Day concert and reception by the President. The concert takes place in the evening at the Parnu Concert Hall.
  • Spread awareness on social media for the day by using hashtags such as #IndependenceEstonia and #EstoniaFreedom.
  • Indulge in traditional Estonian dishes to celebrate the day. Enjoy rye bread with garlic/cucumber sauce, bean soup, sauerkraut stew and kama dessert.

Estonian Independence Day References and Related Sites

www.visitestonia.com: Independence Day

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