What is the origin of this tradition of celebrating our national holiday by lighting two blue and white candles on the windowsill between six and nine in the evening?

The tradition of celebrating holidays with candles dates back to ancient times. Candles were valuable, and their light was a sign of honour. In Finland, candles were lit on the windowsill to celebrate the rulers' birthdays and visits already in the 1700–1800s, and in the early 1900s, they were lit as a sign that soldiers were welcome in the house. With Finland's independence, the tradition gradually shifted to Independence Days.

Why two candles? The story goes that one symbolises home, the other the homeland. However, it is believed that the amount of two was chosen for practical reasons, based on symmetry: small pane windows usually had two squares side by side.

The blue and white colours of the Finnish flag have only been included in the Independence Day candles in recent decades.

Remember to take care of your home and neighbours' safety when burning candles – you should never leave fire unattended.