Public & National Holidays in Finland
Finland is an interesting place with interesting features: it has variety of seasons, darkness in winter and sun at midnight etc. It has the beauty of nature in every corner. Finland observes a number of holidays throughout the year, around 15 are the average number. Finns are a warm nation and celebrate their national events and holidays in a friendly way. Some of the holidays celebrated are: New Year, Good Friday, Easter, Labour Day, Ascension, Pentecost, Midsummer Eve, All Saints, Independence Day Finland, Christmas and St. Stephen´s Day.
Instructions
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1
Holidays in January
1st- New Year
It is celebrated on first January and is called Uudenvuodenpäiväin Finnish. It is celebrated extravagantly. One of the main highlights is the variety of fireworks around the country. These are fired by the locals and sometimes on a larger scale by companies or clubs. People celebrate with their friends and families and attend parties. There are also formal dinners, balls and concerts in celebration of the first day of the year. A major event is held in the Finnish capital, Helsinki; there is a ceremony with speeches and cheers at senate square.
6th- Epiphany
Like in many countries around the world, epiphany is celebrated on January 6th by Christians in Finland. It is a holiday and Bible signifies that marks important events in the life of Jesus. One of them is when Jesus was baptized. There are professional slide shows also shown at this holiday. In Finnish, it is called Loppiainen, and marks the ending of Christmas. -
2
Holidays in March
29th- Good Friday
It is observed for the Christ’s crucifixion. It is the Friday before the Sunday of Easter. It is a day of sorrow and the church ceremony is also quiet on this day without the use of church bells. Its other name is Long Friday. Banks and bottle stores are also closed on this day. -
3
Holidays in May
09th- Ascension Day
It is observed on the 40th day of Easter. According to Christian beliefs it marks the entry into heaven of Jesus. It is a holy day and observed peacefully in Finland. Traditional Finnish foods are cooked on this day. -
4
Holidays in December
6th- Independence Day
It is celebrated on 6th December celebrating Finland’s independence from Russia. The shops and windows are decorated with Finnish flags. They are decorated in blue and white colours. Some local events are celebrated; there are national fairs which are usually free of admission. Some people still put 2 candles on their windows as per tradition.
