Finland Celebrates 90th Anniversary in Blustery Weather

Finns have celebrated the nation's 90th birthday with traditional pomp and rituals amid damp, windy weather. Thursday's Independence Day festivities culminated in the annual Presidential Ball at the Presidential Palace near Helsinki's Market Square. This year there were 1,900 guests ranging from politicians, diplomats, officers and clergy to celebrities and regular Finns whom the President has met during her travels around the country. The event perennially attracts the high television viewership of the year, with 2.08 million people tuning in this year. This year's guest list is intended to spotlight people who have participated in creating Finland's well-being and independent identity. Also represented are various minorities, including the hearing-impaired, immigrants and expatriate Finns. Guests were served delicacies from all of Finland's provinces and entertained by the Finnish Army's Guards Band and the Pori Jazz All-Stars. Events Centre on Helsinki, Hämeenlinna

As blustery winds swept in from the Baltic, Independence Day festivities began with a flag-raising ceremony at Helsinki's Tähtitorninmäki hill, led by Speaker of Parliament Sauli Niinistö.

Later in the morning, President Halonen placed a wreath at the Heroes' Plaza at Hietaniemi cemetery. At noon, she attended an ecumenical service at Helsinki Cathedral, along with former presidents Mauno Koivisto and Martti Ahtisaari and other dignitaries.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to Hämeenlinna, where the national Defence Forces Parade was held, including 1,200 marchers and 10,000 spectators. A number of military officers were given promotions.

Meanwhile a traditional Independence Day meal was served in the rain to the poor and homeless at Helsinki's Hakaniemi Square. The event was started by the late Veikko Hursti, and is now led by his son Heikki Hursti. It is aimed at drawing attention to and helping those who have been left out of the nation's prosperity.

A multicultural Independence Day celebration was held on Thursday afternoon at Vantaa's Adult Education Centre. Veteran and immigrant representatives participated in the public event.

Because of the Independence Day holiday, virtually all shops and offices were closed on Thursday. Most pharmacies were also closed. Currency exchange booths were open at Helsinki railway station, airport and some ship terminals. Public transport operated on Sunday schedules.