Public Holidays in Finland
Finland observes a set of national public holidays that reflect its Christian heritage, national identity, and cultural traditions. These holidays are legally non-working and recognized across the country, with banks, public offices, and many businesses closed. Some holidays are observed on fixed dates, while others vary according to Easter.
Overview of Public Holidays in Finland
The public holidays in Finland include Christian holidays such as Good Friday, Easter, Christmas, as well as Finnish national days like Independence Day and Midsummer. Midsummer Eve (the day before Midsummer) is also often treated as a de facto holiday in many sectors.
List of Public Holidays in Finland (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Remarks / Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | First day of the Gregorian year |
| Epiphany (Loppiainen) | January 6 | Monday | Christian feast of the Epiphany |
| Good Friday | April 18 | Friday | Christian observance before Easter |
| Easter Sunday | April 20 | Sunday | Resurrection of Christ (Christian) |
| Easter Monday | April 21 | Monday | Christian holiday following Easter Sunday |
| May Day (Vappu / Labour Day) | May 1 | Thursday | International Workers’ Day / spring festival |
| Ascension Day | May 29 | Thursday | Christian feast 40 days after Easter |
| Whit Sunday (Pentecost) | June 8 | Sunday | Christian celebration of Pentecost |
| Midsummer’s Eve | June 20 | Friday | De facto holiday in many sectors |
| Midsummer Day (Juhannus) | June 21 | Saturday | Official national public holiday |
| All Saints’ Day | November 1 | Saturday | Christian tradition honoring saints |
| Independence Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä) | December 6 | Saturday | Commemorates Finland’s declaration of independence |
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Wednesday | Often treated as holiday / partial closure |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Thursday | Christian celebration of Jesus’ birth |
| Second Day of Christmas (Boxing Day / St. Stephen’s Day) | December 26 | Friday | Day after Christmas, also a holiday in Finland |
Note: Some holidays like Midsummer’s Eve are not always legislated as “public holidays,” but are commonly observed (especially in banking, retail, etc.).
Public Observance & Closures
On official public holidays, government services, schools, and banks close across Finland. Some businesses may also close early or have limited hours on the eve (the day before) of significant holidays, such as Christmas Eve or Midsummer’s Eve.
Religious & Cultural Significance
Christian holidays (Good Friday, Easter, Christmas, etc.) reflect Finland’s Lutheran heritage. Midsummer is culturally significant and one of Finland’s most celebrated festivities—a time for bonfires, sauna, and nature gatherings. Independence Day (December 6) is a solemn national day marked by flag ceremonies, concerts, and lighting candles in windows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Finland have in 2025?
Finland observes around 13 national public holidays in 2025.
Is Midsummer’s Eve a public holiday in Finland?
While Midsummer Day is an official public holiday, Midsummer’s Eve is often treated as a de facto holiday and many businesses observe it as non-working.
Does Finland shift holidays when they fall on Sunday?
Most public holidays remain on their calendar date and are not shifted. However, Easter Monday is always observed on a Monday.
What is Finland’s Independence Day and how is it observed?
Finland’s Independence Day is December 6, commemorating its 1917 declaration of independence. It is observed with flag ceremonies, concerts, and candle lighting in homes.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Finland weave together religious heritage, national pride, and deep cultural traditions. Whether observing Easter, lighting candles on Independence Day, or celebrating Midsummer in nature, these holidays structure Finnish life and identity each year.
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