Nov 18, 2022
Latvia Independence Day 2022
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Latvia’s Independence Day. On this day in 1918, the People’s Council of Latvia gathered in the city of Riga and declared their independence from Russia and Germany.
Latvians celebrate the national holiday with events like a military parade that goes past the Freedom Monument, where people lay flowers to honor those who lost their lives in the fight for independence. The President of the Republic of Latvia also addresses the nation with a televised speech on Latvian pride and the holiday’s importance.
Throughout the day, Latvian people enjoy dishes like pīrāgi (bacon pies), rupjmaize (rye bread) and the national dish pelēkie zirņi ar speķi (a stew made of grey peas and bacon). As night falls, free outdoor concerts by children’s choirs and musicians spur singing and dancing in the square. Tens of thousands of people also take part in a torchlight procession, and enjoy a stroll through the decorated streets of Riga.
Today’s Doodle depicts Latvia’s crimson and white striped flag. Although not formally adopted until 1923, Latvia used this flag as early as 1279—making it one of the oldest flags in use today! Despite colonizing forces outlawing the flag for many years, the Latvian flag endured.
Have a happy Independence Day, Latvia!
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