What’s better way to learn about a culture than to experience local celebrations. If you’re curious about Finland’s vibrant culture and love a good celebration, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into some of the coolest festivals and traditions that make Finland sparkle throughout the year!
Midsummer Madness (Juhannus)
Picture this: endless daylight , bonfires crackling, and saunas steaming. That’s Midsummer in Finland for you! It’s like the whole country hits pause to revel in the summer solstice. From lakeside cottages to bustling city parks, everyone’s out enjoying BBQs, traditional dances, and maybe a dip in the lake if you’re feeling brave! During Midsummer cities are getting empty as most people go to their cottages or nearby beaches, so don’t stay in a lonely streets, the best way to embrace Midsummer is to be close to nature.
Christmas Cheer (Joulu)
Christmas in Finland is straight out of a winter wonderland postcard. Think twinkling lights, cosy log cabins, and a sprinkle of snow. Oh, and don’t forget Santa Claus—he’s practically Finland’s next-door neighbour! Families gather for a feast of ham, beetroot salad, and mouthwatering pastries, while kids eagerly await gifts from the man in red. Finnish Christmas is not a loud party, it’s a quite celebration among family. Don’t forget about Christmas Peace, after it’s declared at 12:00, it’s time to put away your phones and concentrate on family time.
Viva Vappu (May Day)
May Day in Finland is all about greeting Spring with a bang! Streets come alive with colourful balloons, festive parades, and university students in their white caps. It’s like the whole country is in party mode, with picnics in the park and sipping on homemade mead (aka sima). Don’t forget to try some funnel cakes (tippaleipä)—they’re a Vappu must-have! Most likely it will be a snowy-rainy day even if the previous days were sunny, however it’s a part of the experience, don’t be shy, go outside and embrace the Finnishness.
More Fun to Explore
But wait, there’s more! Finland has a whole calendar packed with celebrations like Shrove Tuesday (Laskiainen) and unique Santa Claus traditions (Joulupukki) or wife caring competition (the winner gets a barrel of beer, which weight is equivalent of the weight of a wife) .
Each region adds its own twist to the festivities, so there’s always something new to discover!
I know Finnish weather can be discouraging and even depressing, but don’t let grey days to let you down, check out your calendars and gather friends to embrace Finnish celebrations. Finnish holidays are the best time to get to know Finns as the usual borders disappear and everyone is here to enjoy each others company.
Cheers to festive fun in Finland!
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