The Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania

On February 16, 1918, the Council of Lithuania, chaired by Jonas Basanavičius, signed the Act of Independence, proclaiming the restoration of an independent state of Lithuania. At the time, Lithuania was occupied by German forces during World War I, and the act asserted sovereignty and self-determination. This declaration followed centuries of foreign rule, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Russian Empire. The holiday was first celebrated in 1919 but was suppressed during the Soviet occupation after World War II. It was officially reinstated in 1990 when Lithuania declared independence from the Soviet Union.

The day is marked by official ceremonies, including a solemn raising of the national flag in Independence Square in Vilnius, accompanied by the national anthem. Patriotic speeches, concerts, and cultural events take place across the country. People often display Lithuanian flags on their homes and attend commemorative gatherings. Traditional foods such as kugelis (potato pudding) and šakotis (tree cake) are enjoyed with family and friends. Many participate in charity events and community activities that reinforce national unity.

The Day of Restoration of the State of Lithuania symbolizes the country's enduring struggle for freedom and national identity. It celebrates the courage of the signatories of the Act of Independence and serves as a reminder of Lithuania's resilience against foreign domination. The holiday reinforces pride in Lithuanian statehood and democratic values, especially after the decades of Soviet suppression.