Today’s Doodle commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the Republic of Latvia, home to ancient amber mines and the widest waterfall in Europe. On this day in 1918, during the aftermath of World War I, the People’s Council of this Eastern European nation declared its independence on the stage of the ornate Latvian National Theater.

November 18 has long been a national holiday, with public and private institutions closed in honor of the occasion as the red and white flag flies proudly. Festivities begin with a ceremonial laying of flowers by heads of state at the Freedom Monument in the capital city of Riga. A parade proceeds to the 11th November embankment, where a volunteer army won the battle for independence on November 11, 1919. The celebration concludes with concerts and fireworks over the River Daugava.

In honor of the centenary, Latvians will be wearing colorful mittens in traditional patterns, a time-honored symbol of Latvian culture. Different regions of Latvia have characteristic color combinations and patterns, and distinct methods of knitting and weaving have been passed down for centuries and the cozy hand wear is a popular gift at baptisms and weddings.

Happy Independence Day Latvia!