As 2026 approaches, people across Finland eagerly anticipate the many public holiday that punctuate the year. These holidays provide not only a welcome break from daily routines but also cherished opportunities for celebration, reflection, and connection with Finland’s rich traditions and culture. In this article, we explore the public holidays in Finland for 2026, their meanings, and how they’re traditionally observed each accompanied by the joy of an extra day to rest and recharge.
Public Holidays in Finland (2026)
-
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026 (Day Off: January 2, 2026)
-
Epiphany – January 6, 2026
-
Easter – April 3–6, 2026 (Day Off: April 6, 2026)
-
May Day (Vappu) – May 1, 2026 (Day Off: April 30, 2026)
-
Ascension Day – May 14, 2026
-
All Saints’ Day – October 31, 2026
-
Christmas – December 24–25, 2026 (Day Off: December 26, 2026)
Public Holidays in Detail
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026 (Day Off: January 2, 2026)
The year begins with “Uudenvuodenpäivä”, a festive celebration marked by fireworks, parties, and the traditional Presidential New Year’s Speech, reflecting on the nation’s progress and hopes for the future. Many Finns also take a refreshing winter swim to symbolize renewal. With Friday, January 2nd off, the first weekend of the year becomes a relaxing four day break to recover and reflect.
Epiphany – January 6, 2026
Known as “Loppiainen”, Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus and marks the official end of the Christmas season. Families may attend church services or enjoy a quiet day at home, taking down decorations and sharing one final festive meal.
Easter – April 3–6, 2026 (Day Off: April 6, 2026)
Easter in Finland combines deep religious traditions with joyful family customs. Many spend the weekend in their countryside cottages, attending church, decorating eggs, and enjoying the return of spring. Good Friday (Pitkäperjantai) and Easter Monday (toinen pääsiäispäivä) are both public holidays, giving Finns a four-day weekend (April 3–6) for faith, family, and relaxation.
May Day (Vappu) – May 1, 2026 (Day Off: April 30, 2026)
Vappu is one of Finland’s most festive holidays, celebrating spring and labor. The night before (April 30) marks the start of the festivities with picnics, parades, and the traditional wearing of white student caps. People enjoy sima (homemade mead) and tippaleipä (funnel cakes). The extra day off allows everyone to fully embrace this lively, colorful celebration that fills parks and streets across the country.
Ascension Day – May 14, 2026
Called “Helatorstai”, this Christian holiday commemorates Jesus’s ascension to heaven. It’s often observed with special church services and family gatherings. Many Finns take Friday off for a four day weekend, using the time for spring getaways, nature walks, or early cottage visits.
Midsummer (Juhannus) – June 19–20, 2026 (Day Off: June 19, 2026)
Midsummer is one of Finland’s most anticipated holidays, celebrating the summer solstice and the season of endless light. Families head to lakeside cottages, light bonfires (kokko), decorate with birch branches, and enjoy outdoor feasts. Saunas, swimming, and music are essential parts of the celebration. With Friday off, June 19–21 becomes a long weekend of nature, joy, and togetherness.
All Saints’ Day – October 31, 2026
“Pyhäinpäivä” is a solemn yet beautiful occasion to remember loved ones who have passed away. Finns visit cemeteries, lighting candles that illuminate the night in peaceful remembrance. The quiet reflection and family gatherings make it one of Finland’s most heartfelt traditions of the year.
Christmas – December 24–25, 2026 (Day Off: December 26, 2026)
Christmas, or “Joulu,” is the most beloved holiday in Finland. On Christmas Eve (Jouluaatto), families share a festive meal of ham, casseroles, and pastries, attend church, and welcome Joulupukki (Santa Claus) who famously hails from Lapland. Homes glow with candles and warmth, and Boxing Day (Tapaninpäivä) on December 26 provides a peaceful extra day for rest and family time.
Conclusion
Finland’s 2026 public holidays reflect the nation’s deep cultural roots, religious heritage, and love for nature and family life. With thoughtfully placed days off, these holidays offer not just moments of festivity but opportunities to recharge and reconnect. From the snowy magic of New Year’s and Christmas to the light filled joy of Midsummer, 2026 promises Finns a year filled with balance, reflection, and celebration.