- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- CivicHistorical
- Where:
- Lithuania
- Date change rule:
- Every March 11
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇱🇹
Independence Restoration Day commemorates Lithuania’s pivotal declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990. This national holiday celebrates a return to sovereignty and democratic values. Join parades, concerts, and museum exhibitions to honor Lithuanian heritage and resilience.
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Expected Independence Restoration Day Deals
While Independence Restoration Day is a civic holiday, businesses can participate by offering special promotions on Lithuanian goods or travel packages to the Baltic region. Look for deals from airlines like AirBaltic or tour operators like Baltic Tours. Cultural institutions might host special events or offer discounted admission to exhibits on Lithuanian history. Local delis and restaurants may feature traditional Lithuanian dishes and beverages. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as March 11 approaches.
Platform Guide for Independence Restoration Day
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #IndependenceRestorationDay. Share insights on Lithuania’s economic growth since independence.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #Lithuania. Share historical facts or news about diplomatic ties and cultural exchanges.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #LithuanianIndependence. Post photos from local Lithuanian community celebrations or cultural events.
Independence Restoration Day Hero
Vytautas Landsbergis
History of Independence Restoration Day
Lithuania was an independent country until the 1800s when it became part of the Russian Empire. After the First World War, Lithuania gained its independence on February 16, 1918. Independence Day was known as Restoration of the State Day. Although it was a cause for celebration for Lithuanians, this independence celebration was short-lived as the Soviet Union occupied Lithuania during the Second World War in 1940. Lithuanians refused to sit back and let their freedom disappear. They joined forces with Latvia and Estonia to form the Baltic way, a nearly 400-mile human chain of approximately two million people.
Lithuanians continued to fight for their separation from the Soviet Union. In the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev’s reform policies spurred the Lithuanians to continue their quest for independence. Following five decades under the Soviet Union, Lithuanians voted for self-rule in 1990. On March 11, 1990, the democratically elected parliament declared Lithuania’s second Independence Day. The Soviet Union retaliated by imposing economic sanctions and resorted to violence against Lithuania but was averted by worldwide outrage against them. They finally conceded defeat in 1991 and accepted Lithuania’s independence. By July 29, 1991, the Russian Federation recognized Lithuania’s restoration of independence by signing a cross-border relation agreement with Lithuania.
In the struggle for Lithuania’s independence, many lost their lives. By 2004, Lithuania became a member of the European Union. It has been 32 years since Lithuania gained its freedom from the Soviet Union. Lithuania celebrates its independence days annually to commemorate its history and fight for freedom. What a worthy cause to celebrate!
Independence Restoration Day timeline
Russian and Swedish forces overrun Lithuania for the first time.
The Russian Empire bans the Lithuanian language and persecutes the Catholic faith.
Almost two million Lithuanians, Latvians, and Estonians stand hand-in-hand in opposition to the Soviet Union regime.
Lithuania becomes the first Soviet-ruled Republic to declare independence, triggering a rapid decline of the Union.
In 2004, Lithuania joins the European Union and becomes a member state of the E.U.
Independence Restoration Day FAQs
When is Independence Restoration Day?
Independence Restoration Day in 2027 will be observed on Thursday, March 11, continuing the annual commemoration of Lithuania’s sovereignty.
How many countries recognize Lithuania's independence?
After regaining independence in 1990, Lithuania was swiftly recognized by numerous countries. As of 2027, it continues to be a respected member of the international community, actively participating in global affairs.
What is the significance of March 11 for Lithuania?
The date of March 11 holds immense historical weight for Lithuanians, commemorating the formal re-establishment of their independent state. It represents the culmination of decades of struggle against Soviet rule and the beginning of a new era of national self-determination.
What is the difference between Independence Restoration Day and Restoration of the State Day?
While both are crucial independence holidays, Independence Restoration Day (March 11) specifically marks the 1990 re-establishment of sovereignty from the Soviet Union. Restoration of the State Day (February 16) honors the 1918 declaration that founded the modern Lithuanian state after World War I.
How to Observe Independence Restoration Day
Spread awareness
Share social media posts and images and use hashtags to spread awareness on this historic day and the events leading up to it. Use the hashtag #IndependenceRestorationDay.
Attend the flag-raising ceremony
The flag-raising ceremony takes place virtually and in cities across Lithuania. During the ceremony, the flags of Lithuania and the Baltic nations are raised.
Create and enjoy a Lithuanian feast
Whip up a Lithuanian feast with friends and family. You can make dishes such as ‘Žirniai Su Spirgučiais’ (split peas and crispy bacon), ‘Saltibarsciai’ (beetroot soup), ‘Vedarai’ (sausages), and ‘Kibinai’ (stuffed crimped pies).
5 Interesting Facts About Lithuania’s Independence Restoration Day
Democratic Elections
The first post-Soviet democratic elections in Lithuania took place in 1992, and the Lithuanian Democratic Labor Party won.
Lithuania's independence restoration started a revolution
Lithuania was the first of 15 states to gain independence from the Soviet Union, and many others followed in its footsteps.
Oldest European language
The Lithuanian language is one of the oldest languages in Europe.
Largest European country
Lithuania was the largest European country at the end of the 14th century.
The world’s fastest internet
It might surprise you, but Lithuania has the fastest internet broadband connection in the world!
Why Independence Restoration Day is Important
It promotes democracy
The Lithuanian Restoration Independence Day promotes the ideals of democracy. These are liberty, the pursuit of happiness, and equality.
It honors fallen heroes
Independence Restoration Day commemorates and honors the Lithuanians who made sacrifices for the independence restoration. It also honors those who have defended the country over the years.
It promotes patriotism
Celebrating Independence Restoration Day promotes patriotism among the citizens and encourages them to embody Lithuania's values. We love this!
Social Media Tips for Independence Restoration Day
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