Finnish Holidays and Festivals
Pyhäpäivä (for public holidays)
Vapaa päivä - Free day
Juhlapäivät- Festivals
Finland is a country rich in cultural traditions, and its holidays and festivals reflect a mix of historical, religious, and seasonal celebrations. From solemn national commemorations to joyful seasonal festivals, Finnish holidays offer a unique glimpse into the nation's heritage.
National and Public Holidays
New Year’s Day (Uudenvuodenpäivä) – January 1
Finns celebrate the New Year with fireworks, parties, and toasts to good fortune. They celebrate FIREWORKS(ILOTULITUS) ( on the DEC 30TH , THE ATTOPÄIVÄÄ, "aatto" means "eve", referring to the day before a holiday.Epiphany (Loppiainen) – January 6
A Christian holiday marking the end of Christmas, observed with church services.Good Friday & Easter Monday (Pitkäperjantai & Pääsiäinen) – March/April
Easter traditions include eating mämmi (a traditional dessert) and decorating Easter grass. Children visits you , make a candy bag and give them.May Day (Vappu) – May 1
A major celebration for students and workers, featuring parades, carnivals, and parties. It's celebrated on APRIL 31ST, THE ATTOPÄIVÄÄ. May day people usually go for a outdoor picnic and have traditional SIMA drinks.Midsummer (Juhannus) – June (Friday-Saturday closest to June 24)
One of the biggest Finnish festivals, Juhannus is celebrated with bonfires, midnight sun festivities, and time spent in summer cottages.Independence Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä) – December 6
A solemn day marking Finland’s independence from Russia in 1917, observed with candle lighting and a presidential reception. Light a candle and watch the YLE TV in the evening.Christmas (Joulu) – December 24-26
Finns celebrate Christmas with festive meals, visits to cemeteries to honor ancestors, and the arrival of Joulupukki (Santa Claus) from Lapland. Ham, Fish, Cheese, Riceporridge etc are traditional Finnish food for the occasions. On the eve day 24th, gifts are exchanged and celebrated. People also visit church on 25th and 26th is celebrated as a BOXING DAY - TAPANIPÄIVAA.Also not to forget- Runebergin päivä- Runeberg’s Day honors, Feb 5th Johan Ludvig Runeberg (1804–1877), Finland’s national poet, who wrote the lyrics of the Finnish national anthem, Maamme ("Our Land"). People eat Runebergin torttu (Runeberg’s tart), a delicious pastry made with almond, rum, and raspberry jam.
Popular Cultural Festivals
Helsinki Festival (August-September) – Finland’s largest arts festival, featuring music, dance, and visual arts.
Ruisrock (July, Turku) – One of the oldest rock festivals in Europe, attracting international artists.
Flow Festival (August, Helsinki) – A modern urban music and arts festival with a vibrant atmosphere.
Kaustinen Folk Music Festival (July) – A celebration of traditional Finnish and international folk music.
Sauna Day (Various dates) – A unique Finnish tradition where public and private saunas open their doors to visitors.
Finnish holidays and festivals offer a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and celebration, making them an integral part of Finnish life. Whether visiting during Midsummer, Independence Day, or a vibrant music festival, these events provide a rich cultural experience for locals and visitors alike.
