The Act re-established the Lithuanian state, making it the successor to the historical state -- the Grand Duchy of Lithuania -- albeit with a few tweaks here and there. Most importantly, it meant that Lithuania took its first step towards becoming a democracy.

Ninety years ago today, twenty patriots met at 26 Pilies St in Vilnius to sign the Act of Independence of Lithuania. The building is now known as The House of the Signatories.

It's actually quite an involved and complex story. But if you're a history buff, or want to read an English translation of the Act, we recommend this very detailed Wikipedia article.

And because February 16 has fallen on a Saturday this year, this means just about everyone gets Monday off. Many food shops and cafes will be open, but most offices will be closed.

Here are a few events scheduled for Saturday:

If you're a Catholic: a special Independence Day mass will be held at 12:30 pm at the Vilnius Cathedral. Lithuania's President, H. E. Valdas Adamkus, is scheduled to attend.

If you like solemn ceremonies: 14:00 at the House of the Signatories

If you like military parades: get down to Vilnius's Cathedral Square at 15:30. President Adamkus is expected to watch the parade with his three counterparts from Poland, Estonia, and Latvia: H.E. Lech Kaczynski, H.E. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, H.E. Dr. Valdis Zatlers.

If you like music: be at Cathedral Square at 19:00 for a big open-air concert. Lithuanian rock legend Andrius Mamantovas will be singing his latest song Geltona. Žalia. Raudona. (Yellow. Green. Red.)

Bundle up and bring a friend/translator.

Alfa wishes you a Happy Lithuanian Independence Day!