LATVIA INDEPENDENCE DAY

Recently on the 18th November, Latvians enjoyed a public holiday

You see, on this day in 1918, Latvia declared its independence from Russian occupation after World War I.

The country remained an independent state until the Second World War, when Russian forces occupied the country in June 1940.

But who knew that the country would need to do it all over again 72 years later?

Latvia Independence Day commemorates a nation’s struggle to retain its lands and identity. After centuries of occupation under numerous rulers, Latvia became independent (once again) on August 21, 1991.

Yes you read correctly, Latvia celebrates two Independence Days every year.

I for one had to work, but my wife Leila went to visit our family and and they spent quality time over a delicious meal and cake.

In the afternoon, the National Armed Forces held a parade that took place at the 11th November Embankment. During the evening, once the sun goes down, there were several torchlight processions, and the celebration in the capital city of Riga ends with a spectacular fireworks display over the River Daugava.

I see a lot of similarities between Latvia and Namibia where I am from, but that's a story for another day.

I wish you a blessed and well deserved Independence Day LATVIA!