In Finland, one of the most celebrated holidays is Christmas Day, known locally as Joulu, held annually on December 25. Finnish Christmas traditions are a blend of religious Christian customs and older pagan Baltic and Nordic winter solstice celebrations. Many Finns start observing the holiday on Christmas Eve, with the preparation of the household, the cooking of special meals, and visits to family and friends.
One of the main highlights during Christmas in Finland is the decoration of the Christmas tree, which usually happens on Christmas Eve. Additionally, Saunas play an important role in Finnish Christmas traditions. On Christmas Eve, the Sauna is usually heated, traditionally believed to be a home for the Sauna Elf- ancestors’ spirits, and it’s enjoyed by the family. Later in the night, Santa Claus or Joulupukki, as referred to in Finland, visits homes to distribute gifts.
Christmas food in Finland is a grand affair with festive dishes that often include baked ham, root vegetable casseroles, mixed beetroot, and pickled herring. Desserts such as rice pudding and gingerbread cookies are also traditional. Another special feature of Christmas in Finland is the Declaration of Christmas Peace from Turku, Finland's oldest city, which is broadcast every year. The event dates back to the Middle Ages and it officially sets the start of the Christmas festivities.