Defence Forces cancel Independence Day´s Parade

The Finnish Defence Forces cancelled the National Finnish Independence Day Parade and its side events scheduled to be held in Lahti on 6 December due to the current coronavirus pandemic situation and in adherence to the restrictions and guidelines in effect in the area, said an official press release on Tuesday.

By canceling the parade, the Finnish Defence Forces wants to ensure safeguarding the health security of persons liable for military service, of salaried service personnel, of the general public, and of all stakeholders, and to prevent the virus from spreading.

Earlier on 18 November, the Defence Forces announced to hold a national parade in Lahti marking the Independence Day on 6 December.

The Defence Forces, however, said that time the arrangements of the event will consider the regional restrictions concerning public events to ensure sustained health security.

It also said to continue to monitor the coronavirus situation in cooperation with the Päijät-Häme Joint Authority for Health and Wellbeing.

Last year the Defence Forces also cancelled the Independence Day´s parade scheduled for Pori against the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak.