Nov 18, 2023
Latvia Independence Day 2023
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Latvia’s Independence Day, locally known as Latvijas Republikas proklamēšanas diena (Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia). On this day in 1918, Latvia declared its independence from German and Russian occupation.
People across the country bundle up to stay warm at public events, like parades and concerts. The largest parade in Riga attracts thousands of people, who cheer for military personnel and marching bands as they walk by. A plane flies overhead, spraying two streams of red smoke, which resembles the crimson and white flag waving in today’s Doodle.
Latvians gather at the Freedom Monument throughout the day. Many lay flowers in honor of those who fought for Latvia’s autonomy, and crowds return later to hear federal representatives speak about Latvia’s founding, accomplishments, and future. As night falls, sprawling torchlight processions illuminate the streets as a beautiful memorial to Latvia’s fight for freedom.
Happy Independence Day, Latvia!
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