Stubb promotes unity in first Independence Day gala

In a change from past years, Finland's war veterans will attend a separate Independence Day event.

Alexander Stubb shaking hands with Sauli Niinistö on a red carpet, alongside their spouses. All are dressed in formal wear or gowns.
File photo of President Sauli Niinistö and his spouse Jenni Haukio greeting then-presidential candidate Alexander Stubb and his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb at the Independence Day gala in 2023. Image: Silja Viitala / Yle
  • Yle News

Finnish President Alexander Stubb and his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb will host their first Independence Day celebration at the Presidential Palace in Helsinki on 6 December.

Around 1,700 guests are on the invitation list this year, according to a president's office press release.

This year's theme at the gala event is one of unity (officially, "Together").

Invitations were particularly sent to people who have "fostered a spirit of community and brought people from different backgrounds together" — through culture, literature and sport, the office said.

Other invitees include those who work in youth and social services, particularly those in the areas of fighting domestic violence and supporting mental health.

In a change from past years, a separate event will be held for Finland's war veterans — and women who served in the voluntary civil defence group Lotta Svärd, the office said. They will be invited to a reception at the palace on Monday 2 December.

Over the decades since Finland's wars, veterans and Lotta members have generally attended the official gala on 6 December. However, a separate event was arranged for the elderly guests during the Covid era.

There are plans to decorate the palace with "festive" lighting this year, and there will be more musical performances, according to the office.

In terms of refreshments, the cocktail buffet will include foods with inspiration from Lapland, including reindeer, willow grouse and flamed salmon.

The office said invitations were currently being sent out and that guests will receive them in the coming weeks.

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