Independence Day in Lithuania

In the first mondial war, the Lithuania was attached to the Russian empire which wanted to keep the control of Lithuania.

The declaration of Lithuania's independence has been adopted the February 16th, 1918. To celebrate this day, each years the country is transformed with colors of the flag. Speech, danse, typicals foods are proposed in this day.

The Lithuanian Declaration of Independence (Lithuanian: Lietuvos Nepriklausomybės Aktas) or Law of February 16 was signed by the Council of Lithuania on February 16, 1918. It proclaims the restoration of an independent state of Lithuania, governed by democratic principles it becomes a republic. Its elaboration was long and delicate because of the pressures exerted by the German Empire wishing the conclusion of an alliance. On February 18, the text is published in German newspapers, in Lithuania a text prepared for newspapers is banned from publication by the German authorities. This censorship aims to make the distribution and dissemination of the Declaration in Lithuania illegal. The first government was formed on November 11, 1918, the day Germany signed the armistice in Compiegne. The Council immediately sets up the army, police, municipalities and other institutions. The proclaimed independence becomes effective. That day, in the main Lithuanian cities is held commemorations, as well as concerts and shows, typical foods are also proposed in this day. All the country is transformed with colors of the flag. Moreover, buses and museum tickets are free this day.