Sauna Culture Sauna is an essential part of Finnish life, used for relaxation, socializing, and even business meetings. Many Finns have their own sauna at home, and there are public saunas across the country.
Midsummer (Juhannus) Celebrated in June, Juhannus marks the longest day of the year. Finns light bonfires, enjoy outdoor activities, and may head to their summer cottages to celebrate.
Vappu (May Day) Vappu is a lively celebration marking spring and International Workers’ Day. Finns enjoy picnics, wear colorful wigs or hats, and drink sima, a traditional sweet mead.
Finnish Independence Day Observed on December 6th, Independence Day is a solemn occasion marked by candle lighting and a presidential ball, which is televised nationally.
Name Day Celebrations In Finland, people often celebrate their name day, which corresponds to a specific day in the calendar. It’s a smaller celebration compared to birthdays.
Karelian Pie (Karjalanpiirakka) Making and eating Karelian pies is a cherished culinary tradition. These pastries, filled with rice porridge, are often accompanied by egg butter.
Pikkujoulu (Little Christmas) In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Finns celebrate Pikkujoulu with friends or colleagues, often involving parties, glögi (mulled wine), and festive decorations.
Eukonkanto (Wife Carrying) Contest This quirky tradition involves men carrying their partners through an obstacle course. It has become an internationally recognized competition.
Ice Swimming Finns embrace winter by combining sauna sessions with ice swimming. It’s believed to boost circulation and mental well-being.
Runeberg’s Day On February 5th, Finns celebrate the poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg by eating Runeberg tarts, almond and rum-flavored pastries named after him.
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