The National Veterans’ Day is observed in Finland on April 27 in honour of war veterans and is an official flag day. The day commemorates Finnish war veterans and marks the end of the war and the beginning of peace. It is also the anniversary of the end of the Lapland War.
This year’s theme is Moving forward together. The theme invites us all to act together: to remember, understand, and build. The national main celebration will take place in Mikkeli and will be televised. The day will also be celebrated with dignity in Turku.
Veterans’ Day Programme in Turku
16.30 Wreath-laying Ceremony at the Veterans’ Stone, Samppalinnanmäki
- The wreath will be laid by Commodore Sauli Rimmanen, Commander of the Turku Garrison, and Timo Jalonen, Director of Upper Secondary Education and General Adult Education Services at the City of Turku.
- The event is open to all.
18.00 Celebration at the Turku Volunteer Fire Brigade House (Eskelinkatu 5)
- The celebration will feature the Navy Band conducted by Matti Laiho. Soloists include Maria Tyyster (vocals), Tango Queen 2014, and Seaman Tuukka Nummila (accordion).
- Greetings will be given by Timo Jalonen, Director of Upper Secondary Education and General Adult Education Services at the City of Turku, Commodore Sauli Rimmanen, Commander of the Turku Garrison, and Teemu Hälli, Director of Joint Parish Work of the Turku and Kaarina Parish Union. A youth speech will be delivered by sea scout and upper secondary school student Laura Lehtonen from the Nuotiotytöt scout group.
- Coffee will be served from 17.00 before the event.
- The celebration is open to all and lasts approximately one hour.
In addition, the City of Turku’s Library Bridge will be illuminated in blue and white on April 27 in honour of the National Veterans’ Day.
More information in the Event Calendar: National Veterans’ Day Celebration | kalenteri.turku.fi