Finland has many wonderful traditions and cultures at Northern Europe's heart. Finnish traditions range from quirky customs to deep-rooted rituals. Each is an inherent part of the nations’ harmonious connection with nature, their respect for each other, and the celebration of individuality. In this blog, Unveiling Finnish Traditions: How to Navigate through Finland’s Glorious Cultural Collage, we finish 10 Unique Customs You Must Know in Finland.
A treasure trove of traditions from which Finnish people are so closely connected with nature, community, and heritage. Each tradition gives visitors a glimpse into what is in Finland’s soul, from invigorating sauna rituals to cherished Midsummer festivities to unspoken respect for Finnish coffee culture. This guide shows you why Finland is unique to travelers, world culture enthusiasts, and anybody curious about what makes Finland unique. Sink yourself into the heat of Finnish heritage and discover the mix between old and new ways of life.
Finland is a sauna people. Its 3 million saunas (more than households) means it’s a way of life, not just relaxation. Saunas are sacred for Finns as a space to cleanse their body and mind, talk, and even have business meetings. And, of course, traditional sauna rituals generally involve taking turns between the sweatbox and a dip in a cold lake or rolling around in the snow.
Mökki refers to the Finnish summer cottage, many built beside beautiful lakes in true Scandinavian style. Spending time at a mökki, like in many other cases for Finns, is a way to escape the bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. Typically, these retreats lack modern luxuries, permitting a slower pace of life based on fishing and foraging berries but endless sauna sessions.
Vappu, celebrated on May 1st, is a kaleidoscope of joy marking the arrival of spring. Rooted in both labor movement celebrations and academic traditions, Vappu combines the seriousness of history with the exuberance of a carnival. Revelers don colorful outfits, don student caps (a mark of academic achievement), and gather for picnics featuring sparkling “sima” (a honey-lemon beverage) and “munchkin” (doughnuts).
Juhannus, or midsummer, is one of Finland’s most loved celebrations. The summer solstice marks the start of daylight that stretches into the night, perhaps an almost surreal time. Finns cook over bonfires, sing traditional songs, and escape to their mökki to luxuriate in this limitless daylight.
Finnish culinary tradition is marked by Karelian pies, or “karjalanpiirakka.” Often, these pastries consist of a pastry crust filled with creamy rice porridge, sometimes topped with a dollop of egg butter. But they are initially from the Karelia region and have become, in a way, a national symbol of comfort and hospitality.
Before Christmas begins in Finland, the Little Christmas (or “Pikkujólu”) comes! This pre-Christmas tradition is celebrated with informal gatherings among friends, colleagues, and communities. The festivities include traditional Finnish treats being feasted on, a sip of the 'glögi' (mulled wine), and exchanging small gifts.
Born in Finland, the Wife Carrying Championship is a playful competition that has gained international fame. Participants—primarily couples—race through an obstacle course, with the male carrying the female in various humorous positions. The prize? The wife’s weight in beer!
Finland’s love for silence starkly contrasts our world—one that so often prizes speech. To Finns, quiet moments are not awkward—they're comfortable, showing the appropriate amount of respect and thoughtfulness. Conversations are meaningful; silence is used as (in)human beings would be reflective or another be present.
Salmiakki, Finland’s famous salty liquorice, is among the few things to which opinions can be divided. Finns love this taste and use it for candy and liqueurs. It’s fermented and an acquired taste for many, but Finns revel in introducing it to newbies.
As for a legal principle, Jokamiehenoikeus, known as Everyman’s Rights, allows everyone to explore Finland’s beautiful nature. It encompasses the right to hike, camp, pick berries, and forage mushrooms in private and public lands, so long as that environment is respected.
Finnish traditions are a tale of generational warmth and cultural vigor, from sauna culture to Midsummer fires that burst with zeal. It’s more than a journey through Finland; it’s an invitation to connect with a living tradition of harmony, simplicity, and honoring. These practices are not just relics of the past but living traditions that continue to shape the Finnish identity. They invite visitors and locals alike to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the world around them, and find joy in simplicity.
With these unique Finland customs, you dive into them and learn what makes the people of Finland what they are. If you are planning a visit or are looking to expand on your global knowledge, take the time to learn about Finnish cultural practices to help better understand this Nordic gem. Enjoy these traditional Finnish traditions by practicing them in your own life or telling their stories to someone else. Are you ready to discover Finland’s charm?
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