Estonia celebrated Independence Day

Saturday 24 February 2024 marked the 106th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. On this day in 1918, the Estonian Declaration of Independence, also known as the Manifesto to the Peoples of Estonia, was printed and published in Tallinn.

Throughout the day, celebrations took place across the country. In Tallinn, the celebration began with the traditional flag-raising of the Estonian flag on Pikk Hermann tower in Toompea Castle. This was followed by the parade 31 units of the Estonian Defence Forces and Estonia’s allies led by Gen. Martin Herem.

The Independence Day Presidential Reception was held at the Estonia Theatre Hall. In his speech, President Alar Karis highlighted strengths that help Estonia remain Estonian, the three topics of the speech being education, national defence, and the economy.

The reception was continued by a concert at the Estonian National Opera, the artistic director of which was Jaan-Eik Tulve. The director was Maria Peterson. The concert was inspired by current world events and the desire to bring light and comfort during difficult times.