Although the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence is also called the White Tablecloth Celebration relatively recently, almost half (48.2%) of the survey participants indicated that the tradition of holding the White Tablecloth Celebration has already become entrenched in their family, and 13% of respondents plan to start celebrating the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence at a white-covered table this year.

The call to celebrate the 4th of May at a white-covered table was issued to inspire people to keep the history of Latvia alive, establishing the celebration of the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence as an important tradition. The Latvia's Centenary Office reports that the white tablecloth is used as a symbol of self-confidence and pride, a unifying element that invites people to sit together at a ceremonially laid table and share memories and emotions about historical events, while the festive table symbolises unity, giving and happiness. Respondents also almost unanimously (95.4%) recognise the white tablecloth as a suitable symbol for national holidays.

According to half of the survey participants (50.7%), the residents associate the White Tablecloth Celebration with a peaceful day, appreciating independence. Sitting together at the table during the feast gives an opportunity to listen to stories of memories and experiences, thinking more about how precious freedom is, especially today. Almost as many (45.1%) respondents noted that the White Tablecloth Celebration is primarily associated with the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence. The respondents also indicate that this day is associated with the gathering of family, neighbours and friends, the arrival of warmer weather and a richly laid table.

The choice of food on national holidays is multifaceted - some (29.8%) put on the table the same as for everyday lunch, while others (17.8%) take care of delicious, red-white-red coloured dishes. In the spring, while celebrating national holidays, roast meats, cold soup, pies and chops are served, as well as pretzels can often be enjoyed at city events.

To help prepare a holiday feast at home or for a picnic, 205 top! stores are selling! throughout Latvia. We have taken care of a wide range of the most purchased products at the best prices, the local top! ready-made culinary and confectionery products, as well as accessories for festive table decoration.

The results of the survey reveal that an important (30.9%) holiday activity is the Latvian film marathon, a joint festive lunch with family and friends, recalling historical events. (25.9%). On public holidays, people like to clean up the area around the house, attend events at their place of residence, organise picnics and go on excursions. According to the results of the survey, it can be concluded that the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence, or the White Tablecloth Celebration, has acquired a family atmosphere, as the majority (66.8%) of respondents stated that they celebrate it at home or in nature.

The survey results show that people do not particularly decorate houses for the White Tablecloth Celebration (40.9%), but pay more attention to such details as the cleanliness of the house, flowers and candles, more luxurious dishes. Only a small part of respondents (7.2%) makes special decorations.

The local store chain top! invites every resident of Latvia to lay a white tablecloth on the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence, gather family, friends and neighbours around the festive table and celebrate the freedom of our country!

In total, 1228 respondents from Riga (8.6%) and Riga Region (6.3%), Vidzeme (37.9%), Kurzeme (17.5%), Zemgale (17.7%) and Latgale (12%) participated in the online survey of the local store chain top! from 12 to 28 April.

Retail store chain top! is the largest chain owned by Latvian business and the third largest retail chain in Latvia. There are currently 205 food stores in Latvia under the trademark top!. In total, more than 3,500 jobs are provided, supporting local producers and suppliers across Latvia.