Easter in Finland

Easter in Finland

 

Easter, known as "Pääsiäinen" in Finnish, is celebrated in Finland much like it is in many other Christian-majority countries.  


Palm Sunday

Seven weeks before Easter, Finland observes Palm Sunday, known as "Palmusunnuntai." 

It marks the start of Holy Week, blending religious observance with cultural traditions. Many may engage in fasting as a form of spiritual preparation for Easter. Meanwhile, others take advantage of the remaining snow by enjoying downhill skiing, embracing the outdoor activities that come with the arrival of spring.

 

Virpominen

Virpominen is a Finnish Easter tradition similar to the custom of "trick-or-treating" during Halloween in some other countries. It takes place on Palm Sunday, which is the Sunday before Easter Sunday. During Virpominen, children dress up as Easter witches or "virpojat" (palm twig boys) and go from door to door in their neighborhoods, carrying decorated branches of willow twigs adorned with colorful feathers.

When they arrive at a door, the children recite a traditional Easter rhyme or blessing and then exchange their decorated twigs for candy or other treats. The tradition is believed to have originated from an old Finnish superstition that witches would roam the countryside causing mischief during the Easter season, and by giving treats to the children, households could protect themselves from these witches.

Virpominen is a beloved Easter tradition in Finland and is eagerly anticipated by both children and adults. It adds a fun and festive element to the Easter celebrations, allowing communities to come together and enjoy the spirit of the holiday.

 

Following Palm Sunday, Tuesday begins the period of fasting, as Finns reflect on the significance of the season and prepare for the upcoming Easter festivities.

 

Easter

During the period between March 22nd and April 25th, Finland celebrates Easter. Easter in Finland is a time for family celebration and traditions deeply rooted in local culture. As winter gives way to spring, people come together to mark this holiday with activities and feasting.

Preparations often begin weeks ahead of the Easter weekend. Families decorate their homes with decorated willow branches and colored eggs. These decorations add a festive touch to the atmosphere and symbolize the season's renewal.

The Easter meal is a significant moment for gathering around traditional dishes. Salmon, lamb, and ham are common fare, along with egg-based dishes. Mämmi, a dessert made from rye flour and malt, is also enjoyed during this time, although some may not be fans of its distinctive taste.

Of course, for many, Easter also holds significant religious meaning. Churches hold special services to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and many Finns participate in these celebrations.

Ultimately, Easter in Finland is a blend of religious observance and family traditions, where everyone finds their own way to mark this time of renewal and joy.

 

 
Figure 1 : Children dress up as witches with Virpominen

 

Sources

https://finland.fi/life-society/wandering-witches-welcome-finnish-easter/

https://www.canterburytravel.com/how-do-the-finns-celebrate-easter/ 


Written by Elise Paris 

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