Each year, on February 24, the Republic of Estonia celebrates Independence Day.
A little over 100 years ago, from 1918 to 1920, the Estonian people were embroiled in the Estonian War of Independence against the Soviet Western Front offensive. The most significant day was February 24, 1918, on which Estonia declared statehood.
This day is now commemorated as a national holiday, celebrated with a televised flag raising at Pikk Hermann Tower, the ancient defensive stronghold next to Toompea Castle, fireworks, a parade, and a presidential reception.
Estonia is a country in Northern Europe that borders the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland. Home to more than 1,500 islands, Estonia's diverse topography spans rocky beaches, old-growth forests, and many lakes. Tourists visit Estonia to see castles, churches and hilltop fortresses.
