May Day, or Vappu as it is commonly known in Finland, is an important national holiday and one of the most uniquely Finnish celebrations. It is a highly zealously celebrated holiday and almost everyone in the country participates in one way or another. This holiday has traditions deeply rooted in Finnish culture and is a combination of a labour celebration and welcoming springtime.
Vappu is officially recognized as the day dedicated to workers and students. During this day, labor unions usually organize marches and other events to rally for workers' rights. However, Finns often commence celebrations on the eve of the actual day, which is known as Vappuaatto. Specifically for students, May Day’s Eve is characterized by peculiar student traditions where both university and high-school students don their respective overalls and caps.
On May Day itself, Finns gather outdoors—regardless of the weather—to rejoice the arrival of spring, have picnics and parties with family and friends, and eat Sima, a homemade mead, along with traditional Finnish May Day fritters (tippaleipä) and funnel cake. Balloons, streamers, and other decorations in vibrant springtime colors are commonly put up, and May Day parades with marching bands are a common sight. All of these celebratory actions collectively express the Finnish people's joy and appreciation for the end of the long, somber winter period.