Latvians at home and abroad were taking part in ceremonies and celebrations big and small Tuesday to mark 96 years since their country joined the long list of nation states by achieving indepedence on November 18, 1918.

Festivities began with a morning church service at the Dome cathedral followed by a flower-laying ceremony at the Freedom Monument and a parade of the National Armed Forces on the banks of the River Daugava.

Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa Photo: Latvijas Saeima Ziedu nolikšana pie Brīvības pieminekļa

The evening will see a variety of musical concerts and the traditional address to the nation by President Andris Berzins, the singing of the national anthem and a spectacular fireworks display to round off the official program.

In addition the final day of the 'Staro Riga' festival of light will help to ensure the streets are thronged with people, and all public transport in the capital is free of charge all day long.

And while much attention will focus on the official events, the real business of celebrating Latvia's past, present and future existence will also be done at thousands of more intimate celebrations at home and abroad among friends, family and colleagues.

Happy independence day to all LSM readers everywhere!