Feb 24, 2023
Estonia Independence Day 2023
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Estonia 105th Independence Day. The Republic of Estonia actually celebrates two Independence Days, with the second on August 20th celebrating the Restoration of Independence Day in 1991. But on this day in 1918, Estonia was declared an independent and democratic republic through the Manifesto to the Peoples of Estonia.
On Estonia National Day, early birds can gather at Toompea Castle in the capital city of Tallinn to watch a flag-raising ceremony. A blue, black, and white striped flag, like the one waving in today’s Doodle, is hoisted into the air while orchestras and choir groups perform patriotic songs. People enjoy traditional Estonian food like kartulisalat (Estonian potato salad), vürtsikilu suupiste (a hearty sprat sandwich), and mulgikapsad (sauerkraut with pork and barley), the national dish of Estonia.
Other festivities include an impressive military parade, where various regiments march through the streets or roll by on tanks. Military bands march along, beating drums and blaring brass instruments. The evening wraps up with concerts and a speech delivered by the President of the Republic.
Happy Independence Day, Estonia!
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