Fun Finnish Christmas facts most foreigners don't know

Dive headfirst into the frosty wonderland of Finland and discover why Christmas here is a uniquely magical blend of warmth, tradition, and a touch of melancholy. Forget cookie-cutter festivities; Finnish Christmas is as unique as it gets. Here’s what makes it so special:

1. Christmas Eve: The Main Event

In Finland, Christmas Eve isn’t just important; it’s the day. While the rest of the world gears up for Christmas morning, Finns are already deep into their festive celebrations. Families gather for lavish meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy the glow of candlelight. Afterwards, it’s all about quality time—board games, storytelling, or simply relaxing by the fire. Christmas Day? That’s for leftovers, naps, and some well-earned downtime.

2. Joulupukki: Not Your Average Santa

Meet Joulupukki, Finland’s version of Santa Claus. His name translates to "Christmas Goat," a throwback to his pagan roots when he’d turn up in goat form as a symbol of fertility and good fortune. These days, he’s more about festive cheer than goat horns. Joulupukki’s base of operations is Korvatunturi, a mystical mountain in Lapland shaped like an ear—perfect for listening to children’s Christmas wishes. Unlike his British counterpart, Joulupukki skips the chimney theatrics and prefers knocking on doors to deliver gifts in person.

3. Sauna Sessions on Christmas Eve

What’s more Finnish than a sauna? A Christmas sauna, of course! Before the festivities kick off, families enjoy a candlelit steam session to cleanse both body and soul. This isn’t just about relaxation; it’s a spiritual ritual steeped in tradition. And don’t forget the sauna elf (saunatonttu)—he’s always watching, so keep things respectful.

4. The Last-Minute Tree

While many countries start decorating trees as soon as December rolls around, Finnish families often wait until Christmas Eve morning. This tradition harks back to times when fresh-cut spruce trees were brought directly from the forest. The act of decorating becomes a shared family activity, with ornaments that are often handmade or passed down through generations. The scent of fresh pine fills the home, adding to the cozy festive atmosphere.

5. Candlelit Cemeteries: A Hauntingly Beautiful Tradition

Christmas Eve in Finland wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the cemetery. Families light candles on the graves of loved ones, turning cemeteries into glowing seas of light. This tradition, which began in the 1920s, is both a moment of reflection and a stunningly beautiful sight. It’s a reminder of the Finnish value of connection—not just among the living, but with those who came before.

6. Sad Songs, Happy Hearts

Finnish Christmas music has a knack for tugging at your heartstrings. Classics like "Varpunen jouluaamuna" ("Sparrow on a Christmas Morning") tell bittersweet stories of love and loss, often rooted in historical hardships like famine. Then there’s "Hei tonttu-ukot hyppikää" ("Jump, Christmas Elves"), a surprisingly existential tune reminding us that life’s short, dark, and a bit gloomy—but worth celebrating anyway. These songs encapsulate the Finnish ability to find beauty in melancholy.

7. Feast Like a Finn

Finnish Christmas dinner is a carb-lover’s dream. The centrepiece? A succulent roast ham (kinkku), glazed and slow-roasted to perfection. It’s accompanied by baked salmon, pickled herring, and casseroles galore—potato, carrot, and rutabaga take centre stage. Riisipuuro (rice porridge) is a must-have, often hiding a single almond. The lucky finder is said to have good fortune in the coming year. Sweet treats include gingerbread cookies, joulutorttu pastries filled with plum jam, and cups of steaming glögi (mulled wine) spiced with cloves and cinnamon.

8. Pikkujoulu: Small but Mighty

Who doesn’t love a pre-party? Finns celebrate pikkujoulu ("Little Christmas") throughout December with office parties, family get-togethers, and general merriment. These gatherings, which date back to early 20th-century charity bazaars, often include festive games, secret Santa gift exchanges, and copious amounts of gingerbread and mulled wine. It’s the perfect way to ease into the holiday spirit.

9. The Origin of "Joulu"

Ever wondered where the word "Joulu" comes from? It’s rooted in the ancient Germanic celebration of Yule, a solstice festival packed with feasting and merrymaking. Early Finnish tribes adopted Yule customs long before Christianity arrived, blending them into what we now recognize as Christmas. Even the practice of lighting candles and sharing meals has echoes of these pre-Christian traditions.

10. Turku’s Christmas Peace

Since the 1300s, Finland’s oldest city, Turku, has declared "Christmas Peace" at noon on Christmas Eve. The proclamation, read aloud in the city square, calls for harmony and goodwill—and sternly warns against any mischief. It’s a deeply symbolic moment that’s broadcast across the nation, reminding Finns of the season’s true purpose: peace and togetherness.

11. Straw Ornaments and Bird Buffets

Traditional Finnish Christmas decorations often feature straw, a nod to the country’s agricultural past. Himmeli mobiles, intricate geometric ornaments made of straw, were originally crafted to ensure a bountiful harvest. Meanwhile, birds get their own festive feast, with grain bundles hung outdoors to help them survive the harsh winter months. This tradition not only keeps the wildlife fed but adds a rustic charm to Finnish homes and gardens.

12. Advent Anticipation

Advent in Finland is all about building the hype. Families light candles each Sunday leading up to Christmas, creating a warm and serene atmosphere. Joulukalenteri (Advent calendars) filled with chocolates, small gifts, or even daily acts of kindness keep the countdown exciting. Modern Finns have embraced digital Advent calendars too, with everything from festive memes to local discounts popping up online.

13. Tonttu: Gnomes with Attitude

Forget cute little helpers. Finnish tonttu are mischievous gnomes who protect homes and farms—as long as they’re properly fed. Originating from Scandinavian folklore, these bearded creatures are said to bring good luck but can turn quite naughty if neglected. A bowl of porridge left out for them ensures their goodwill and keeps their pranks at bay.

14. Nuuttipukki: The Goat’s Final Hurrah

Christmas doesn’t officially end in Finland until January 13th, when Nuuttipukki makes his rounds. While this tradition has largely faded, it harkens back to times when children dressed as goats would go door-to-door singing songs and collecting sweets, symbolizing the playful spirit of Nuuttipukki. Today, remnants of the custom may still be seen in rural areas or re-enacted in celebrations, keeping the memory of this quirky tradition alive. This tradition, a blend of ancient Yule customs and modern fun, offers a playful farewell to the festive season and ensures that Christmas spirit lingers well into the new year.

From Joulupukki’s personal visits to candlelit cemeteries and gnomes with attitude, Christmas in Finland is anything but ordinary. It’s a celebration of light, love, and a little bit of Nordic quirkiness—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.