Latvian independence was declared on this day in 1918 within Riga’s National Theatre. On the anniversary of Latvia’s independence, Google’s Doodle features a representation of the country’s red-and-white flag.
Traditionally, state officials commemorate the occasion with a solemn flower-laying ceremony in front of Riga’s Freedom Monument, a 141-foot-high structure topped with a copper image of Latvian liberty holding three golden stars. Below the big statue, 56 sculptures surround it, each representing a different aspect of Latvian history and culture.
Following the parade, federal representatives return to the Freedom Monument as the day turns to nightfall to address the nation and remind citizens of its resiliency while looking ahead to future accomplishments.
Happy Independence Day, Latvia!
