Finland offers unique events and seasonal activities, whether enjoying the midnight sun at Midsummer, taking part in lively Vappu celebrations, marveling at autumn foliage, or chasing auroras, these seasonal gems offer a truly special way to experience Finland.
1. Vappu — First of May festivities
Spring’s biggest celebration in Finland takes place on May 1st, Labor Day, also known as Vappu. With strong roots in the working class culture, Vappu has grown into a nationwide celebration enjoyed by all. On the eve of Vappu, people gather with friends and family for a long meal at home or in local restaurants. Students (and former students) wear their graduation caps and parade through town. On May 1st, Finns flock to parks for picnics, with thousands gathering in Helsinki’s Kaivopuisto Park. The picnic features traditional treats like sima (Finnish mead), munkki (doughnuts), tippaleipä (funnel cake), and perunasalaatti (potato salad). Vappu is a day filled with joy and community spirit!
2. Midsummer and the mythical midnight sun
Midsummer, or Juhannus, is when most Finns escape to their summer cottages to celebrate the longest day of the year. The day is spent by bonfires, grilling sausages, enjoying a sauna, or swimming in lakes or the sea, with the sun never fully setting in many parts of the country. The Midnight Sun is a key part of the celebration in northern Finland, but even in the south, the nights remain light, creating the phenomenon known as Finland’s white nights. Juhannus is celebrated on the Saturday that falls between June 20th and 26th.
3. Experience the vivid colors of autumn foliage
Autumn foliage, or ruska in Finnish, is when leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, and chestnut. In northern Finland, peak foliage typically occurs during the second week of September and lasts about ten days, depending on the weather. In southern Finland, ruska colors appear later, from around late September to early October. A popular outdoor activity during autumn is ruskaretki, a hike or trip to enjoy the stunning fall colors, whether in cities, forests, or fells. In Lapland, shrubs and the fells themselves offer breathtaking views of the autumn landscape.
4. Enjoy the Northern Lights in autumn and spring in Finnish Lapland
Many associate the Northern Lights with winter, but the autumn and spring seasons offer the highest activity due to the position of the Earth relative to the sun, increasing the likelihood of solar flares interacting with the magnetic field. While they can occur year round, the best times to see the Northern Lights are from late August to early April. Clear skies and a bit of luck are essential, and the further north you go, the better your chances. Unique experiences await Northern Lights enthusiasts — sleep under the auroras in a glass cabin and watch the magical display from the comfort of your bed. Alternatively, join guided tours to hunt for the lights!
