Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania 2024 (Lithuania): The 16th of February is observed as the Restoration of the State Day in Lithuania, one of the two celebrations of Lithuanian Independence Day. During this period, the nation is decorated with its national colors—yellow, green, and red. Few countries are granted the opportunity to observe two independence days. Given that Lithuania was the largest sovereign state in Europe during the 13th century and had been independent since that time, the restoration of its former grandeur renders its independence from foreign rule even more significant.
Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania History
Restoration of the State Day and Independence Restoration Day are frequently conflated in Lithuania. Both of these days are recognized as Independence Days and are observed as public holidays. Conversely, the former represents the recovery of the nation’s former grandeur under German occupation, whereas the latter commemorates the re-establishment of autonomy from the Soviet Union.
From the early 13th century until the late 18th century, Lithuania existed as an independent European state renowned for its significant historical legacy. Nevertheless, the Russian Empire seized control of the region and maintained its dominion over it until the outbreak of the First World War. During the period from 1914 to 1917, Lithuania was under the occupation of the advancing German forces of World War I. In response to Russian counteroffensives, the Germans presented Lithuanians with a choice between siding with them or the Russians, in the hope that the citizens would choose the Germans.
On February 16, 1918, the valiant Lithuanians declared their independence from German rule, rejecting both Russia and Germany. That day, Lithuania achieved its initial independence. Having been a sovereign nation before that time, Lithuania renamed that day Restoration of the State Day to commemorate their reestablishment of sovereignty. The nation thereafter observed its independence on February 16 each year.
Regrettably, their period of independence was transitory, lasting a mere 22 years before its occupation by the Soviet Union during World War II. As a result, the nation is inevitably among the few to have been twice occupied by the Russians. Even after World War II ended, the nation was ruled by the Russians until Lithuanians and Estonians banded together to organize demonstrations and demand independence once more. Their labors were rewarded in 1990, and on March 16th, they reclaimed their independence, thereby establishing an additional Independence Day.
Get a Different Name Day 2024 (US): Activities, FAQs, Dates, and History
Fasnacht Day 2024: History, FAQs, Dates, Activities, and Facts About Fasnacht
Galentines Day 2024 (US): Activities, History, FAQs, and Dates
FAQs for the Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania
In what country is March 11 observed?
The second Independence Day commemoration in Lithuania takes place on March 11. The day is referred to as Independence Restoration Day.
Why is Lithuania commemorating two days of independence?
Two distinct nations had colonized or occupied the nation at two separate points in time. On separate days, they achieved independence from the two nations.
What is the duration of Lithuania’s independence?
Lithuania remained a sovereign and independent nation until the late 18th century, before its colonization. After 22 years of its initial independence from Germany, the region has been sovereign against the Soviet Union for the last 32 years.
Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania 2024 (Lithuania) Activities
Plan enjoyable events
Organize enjoyable activities such as concerts featuring local music, dance performances, theatre arts, and more. Guarantee that each event highlights the nation’s illustrious past.
Embrace the culture of Lithuania
Acknowledging and embracing the culture of a nation and its inhabitants is among the highest tributes one can bestow upon them. Demonstrate your admiration by donning their traditional attire, performing folk melodies, and preparing regional cuisine.
Raise the ensign
The Lithuanian flag unquestionably inspires a tremendous sense of national pride among its citizens. In addition to flying the flag, adorn yourself with body art in the yellow, red, and green of Lithuania.
Five Interesting Lithuania Facts
An uncommon vernacular
Lithuanian is the most ancient Indo-European language that has managed to survive in Europe.
Greening the watercourse with paint
Each year to commemorate Saint Patrick’s Day, the River Vilnia in Lithuania is brightly colored emerald green.
An indigenous perfume
A national fragrance of Lithuania, known as “The Scent of Lithuania,” is composed of sandalwood, florals, raspberry, ginger, and musk aromas.
Inlaid with forests
One-third (40 percent) of the nation consists of forestland.
The last to adopt Christianity
It was the last European nation to embrace Christianity and was formerly devoted to the Romuva pagan religion.
DAY OF RESTORATION OF THE STATE OF LITHUANIA DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 16 | Friday |
| 2025 | February 16 | Sunday |
| 2026 | February 16 | Monday |
| 2027 | February 16 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | February 16 | Wednesday |
