Lithuania commemorates the 108th anniversary of its state restoration with ceremonies honoring historical figures and various celebrations across the country.
Lithuania is set to commemorate the 108th anniversary of the restoration of its statehood on February 16. The celebrations will begin with a tribute to the signatories of the Act of Independence of 1918 at Rasos Cemetery, honoring those who played a crucial role in the nation's history. Following this, a State Awards ceremony will take place at the Presidential Palace, recognizing individuals for their contributions to the country.
In addition to these formal events, citizens, particularly the youth, are expected to take to the streets of the capital city in a festive procession named "On the Path of the Lithuanian State." At noon, three Baltic flags will be ceremonially raised in Simon Daukantas Square, coinciding with another celebration at the Vytautas the Great War Museum Garden in Kaunas, emphasizing the importance of unity among the Baltic States. The day also includes religious observances with a mass held at the Vilnius Cathedral Basilica, marking the sacred aspect of the occasion.
As the day progresses, the first leader of the restored independent Lithuanian state, Vytautas Landsbergis, will address the gathering from the balcony of the Signatarų House, reiterating the significance of the day in Lithuania's history. Furthermore, a solemn ceremony will honor the legacy of Jonas Žemaitis-Vytautas, a general of the partisans and a signer of the Declaration of February 16, 1949, underlining the ongoing spirit of resistance and national pride in Lithuania.
