New Year’s Day (Uudenvuodenpäivä, January 1) marks the beginning of the calendar year and is a nationwide public holiday in Finland. The day is usually quiet, as many people spend it resting after New Year’s Eve celebrations. Most shops, offices, and public institutions remain closed. Traditionally, Finns welcome the new year with fireworks, family gatherings, and New Year’s meals the evening before, while New Year’s Day itself is often reserved for relaxation and reflection.

Epiphany (Loppiainen, January 6) is a Christian holiday commemorating the visit of the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus. In Finland, it is observed as a public holiday and often marks the end of the Christmas season. Many Christmas decorations are taken down around this time. The day is generally calm, with limited commercial activity, and is commonly spent with family or enjoying winter outdoor activities.

Good Friday (Pitkäperjantai, Friday before Easter) commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is an important part of the Easter holiday period. In Finland, it is traditionally a solemn and quiet day. Most businesses and entertainment venues are closed, and public events are limited. While religious observance is less prominent today, the day still carries a reflective atmosphere and is often spent resting or preparing for Easter celebrations.

Easter Sunday (Pääsiäispäivä) celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is one of the most significant Christian holidays. In Finland, it always falls on a Sunday and is observed as a public holiday. Families often gather for festive meals, and traditional foods such as lamb and Easter desserts are common. In some regions, children dress up as Easter witches and go door to door earlier in the Easter period, a unique Finnish tradition blending folklore and Christianity.

Easter Monday (Toinen pääsiäispäivä, Monday after Easter) continues the Easter holiday period and is observed nationwide. It is typically a relaxed day, with many people spending time with family, going for walks, or enjoying the early signs of spring. Most workplaces and schools remain closed, making it a popular time for short trips or extended weekends.

May Day (Vappu, May 1) is one of Finland’s most lively and widely celebrated public holidays. It combines Labor Day with strong student traditions. Cities fill with people wearing student caps, attending outdoor picnics, parades, and public celebrations. Vappu marks the arrival of spring and is associated with festive foods and drinks. Many businesses close, especially in city centers, as celebrations take place throughout the day.

Ascension Day (Helatorstai, 40 days after Easter) commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. In Finland, it is a public holiday and often creates a long weekend when it falls on a Thursday. While religious observance is modest, many people take the opportunity to travel, spend time at summer cottages, or enjoy outdoor activities as the weather becomes warmer.

Pentecost (Helluntaipäivä, 50 days after Easter) marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and is celebrated as a public holiday in Finland. It always falls on a Sunday. Although it is less prominently celebrated than Easter or Christmas, Pentecost often provides a peaceful break and is sometimes associated with confirmations and church ceremonies.

Midsummer Eve (Juhannusaatto, Friday in late June) is one of the most important holidays in Finnish culture. It celebrates the summer solstice and the longest days of the year. While it is not listed as an official public holiday in the Primary Act, nearly all collective agreements treat it as a paid day off, so most people do not work. Many Finns leave cities to spend time at summer cottages by lakes or the sea. Traditional activities include sauna, swimming, bonfires, and social gatherings. Most businesses close early or remain closed, and public transport operates on reduced schedules.

Midsummer Day (Juhannuspäivä, Saturday following Midsummer Eve) continues the celebrations of the summer solstice and is observed as a public holiday. The day is typically spent relaxing outdoors, enjoying nature, and spending time with family and friends. It is one of the most popular holiday periods in Finland, especially in rural areas and lakeside regions.

All Saints’ Day (Pyhäinpäivä, late October or early November) is dedicated to remembering deceased saints and loved ones. In Finland, it usually falls on a Saturday and is observed as a public holiday. Many people visit cemeteries to light candles on graves, creating a quiet and reflective atmosphere. The day is generally calm, with limited commercial activity.

Independence Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä, December 6) commemorates Finland’s declaration of independence from Russia in 1917. It is one of the most important national holidays. The day is marked by official ceremonies, flag displays, and televised events. Many families watch the annual Presidential Independence Day Reception. Shops and offices are typically closed, and the atmosphere is respectful and patriotic.

Christmas Eve (Jouluaatto, December 24) is a major part of Christmas celebrations in Finland. Although it is not listed as an official public holiday in the Primary Act, nearly all collective agreements treat it as a paid day off, so most people have the day free. Families traditionally gather in the afternoon or evening, enjoy festive meals, exchange gifts, and attend church services. Many businesses close early, and public transport runs on limited schedules. For many Finns, Christmas Eve is the most important day of the holiday season.

Christmas Day (Joulupäivä, December 25) celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is a public holiday across Finland. It is typically a quiet day spent with close family. Most shops, restaurants, and public services are closed, and travel activity is minimal. The day focuses on rest, family time, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Christmas season.

St. Stephen’s Day (Tapaninpäivä, December 26) follows Christmas Day and is observed as a public holiday in Finland. It is often associated with visiting friends and relatives or participating in outdoor winter activities. Some shops reopen, but many people continue their holiday break, making it a relaxed continuation of the Christmas period.