As the year 2024 approaches, people across Finland eagerly anticipate the various public holidays that punctuate their calendars. These holidays not only provide a much-needed break from the daily grind but also offer opportunities for celebration, reflection, and cultural festivities. In this article, we will delve into public holidays in Finland for 2024, exploring the significance of each day and how they are traditionally observed, along with the added joy of a day off.
Public Holidays In Finland
1.New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024 (Day Off: January 2, 2024)
2.Epiphany – January 6, 2024
3.Easter – April 7-10, 2024 (Day Off: April 8, 2024)
4.May Day – May 1, 2024 (Day Off: April 30, 2024)
5.Ascension Day – May 23, 2024
6.Midsummer’s Eve – June 21-22, 2024 (Day Off: June 21, 2024)
7.All Saints’ Day – November 2, 2024
8.Christmas – December 24-25, 2024 (Day Off: December 26, 2024)
Public Holidays In Details:
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024 (Day Off: January 2, 2024)
The year kicks off with New Year’s Day, a universal celebration marked by fireworks, parties, and the exchange of well-wishes. In Finland, it is customary to watch the President’s New Year’s Speech, which reflects on the past year and sets the tone for the year ahead. Many people also take a plunge into the icy waters as a symbol of renewal and courage. With a day off on January 2nd, it allows for a long weekend of relaxation.
Epiphany – January 6, 2024
Epiphany, known as “Loppiainen” in Finnish, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus. While it is a quieter holiday, some Finns attend church services or enjoy a special meal with their families. It is also the day when the Christmas season officially comes to an end.
Easter – April 7-10, 2024 (Day Off: April 8, 2024)
Easter is a significant holiday in Finland, combining both Christian and pagan traditions. Many Finns retreat to their cottages in the countryside to celebrate Easter, enjoying the budding spring and participating in various activities like egg painting, Easter egg hunts, and bonfires. Churches hold special services throughout the weekend to mark the resurrection of Jesus. The added day off on April 8th ensures a relaxing and extended Easter break.
May Day – May 1, 2024 (Day Off: April 30, 2024)
May Day, or Vappu in Finnish, is one of Finland’s most anticipated public holidays. It is a celebration of spring and labor, marked by colorful parades, picnics in the parks, and the wearing of traditional student caps. Vappu is also associated with sima (a homemade mead) and tippaleipä (funnel cakes), which are enjoyed by people of all ages. With a day off on April 30th, Finns can fully enjoy the festivities without worrying about work.
Ascension Day – May 23, 2024
Ascension Day, or Helatorstai, is a Christian holiday commemorating the ascension of Jesus into heaven. While it is not as widely celebrated as some other holidays, many Finns take the opportunity for a long weekend getaway or visit their local churches for special services.
Midsummer – June 21-22, 2024 (Day Off: June 21, 2024)
Midsummer, or Juhannus, is another major celebration in Finland. It coincides with the summer solstice, when the days are at their longest. Finns flock to their cottages, light bonfires, and participate in traditional activities like the maypole dance. Sauna plays a central role in the festivities, with many people taking a dip in the refreshing lake waters. With a day off on June 21st, it allows for a relaxing start to the Midsummer celebrations.
All Saints’ Day – November 2, 2024
All Saints’ Day, or Pyhäinpäivä, is a day to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. Finns visit cemeteries to light candles and leave flowers on the graves of their ancestors. It’s a somber yet meaningful occasion for reflection and remembrance.
Christmas – December 24-25, 2024 (Day Off: December 26, 2024)
Christmas is a cherished holiday in Finland, celebrated with traditional foods, the exchange of gifts, and attending church services. Santa Claus, known as Joulupukki in Finnish, is an integral part of the festivities, and children eagerly anticipate his visit. Families come together to enjoy a festive meal, often featuring dishes like ham, rutabaga casserole, and gingerbread cookies. The added day off on December 26th allows for extended family gatherings and relaxation after the Christmas festivities.
Conclusion
Finland’s 2024 public holidays offer a diverse range of celebrations and traditions that reflect the country’s rich culture and history. With the inclusion of days off, these holidays provide Finns with not only opportunities to come together, celebrate their heritage, and create lasting memories with loved ones but also the chance to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation throughout the year. As 2024 approaches, Finns can look forward to a year filled with meaningful holidays and moments of joy and rejuvenation.