The day will commence with an ecumenical service in Riga Cathedral, at 9 a.m. The National Armed Forces will be on parade at 11 a.m. down by the riverside in Old Town.

Several events will also be held at the Freedom Monument. At 2 p.m., a bouquet/wreath-laying ceremony will take place there. From 7.30 p.m., music will be provided by the Professional Symphonic Band "Rīga" and Kārlis Beinerts' group of Rīga choirs, accompanied by pianist Madars Kalniņš and composer Mārtiņš Brauns.

At 8 p.m., President Andris Bērziņš will address the nation at the Freedom Monument. The grand finale will take place at 9 p.m. on the 11th November Embankment (11.novembra krastmala) in Old Town with a thousands-strong joint rendition of the national anthem and a fireworks display.

Several exhibitions will also be featured during the festivities - "Rīga's 810th anniversary" at VEF Culture Palace and "Born in Rīga - World Famous" at the cinema "Splendid Palace".

On November 18, public transportation and "Rīgas satiksme's" parking lots outside Old Town will be free of charge.

The programme of events is available on www.kultura.riga.lv. On Independence Day, the festival of light "Beaming Riga" will also feature its outdoor installations. They will be on display until November 20.