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History and Traditions: Christmas Eve, or Jouluaatto in Finnish, holds a special place in the hearts of Finns. It is the culmination of the advent period and has deep roots in both Christian traditions and ancient midwinter festivals. The celebration of Christmas blends these pagan traditions with the Christian celebration of Jesus Christ's birth.
Activities on Christmas Eve:
Sauna: Many Finns start Christmas Eve with a traditional sauna, which is a ritual meant for relaxation and purification.
Decorating the Tree: Families often decorate their Christmas tree on this day if they haven't done so earlier.
Rice Porridge: Eating rice porridge and plum fruit juice for breakfast is a common custom. A single almond is hidden in the porridge; whoever finds it will supposedly have good luck for the next year.
Cemetery Visits: Visiting cemeteries to light candles for deceased loved ones is a reflective practice observed by many.
Christmas Peace Declaration: At noon, from Turku (the old capital of Finland), the Christmas Peace is declared, which is a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. This broadcasted announcement marks the beginning of the holiday.
Gift Exchange: Later in the day, Joulupukki (Santa Claus), who traditionally comes from Korvatunturi in Finnish Lapland, brings gifts. Children eagerly await his visit, often with family gatherings culminating in gift-giving.
Christmas Dinner: A festive dinner is served in the evening. Traditional dishes may include ham (joulukinkku), beetroot salad, fish dishes such as gravlax or pickled herring, casseroles made with swede, carrot, and potato (lanttulaatikko, porkkanalaatikko, perunalaatikko), and for dessert – gingerbread cookies and spiced mulled wine called glögi.
Church Services: Many Finns attend church services on Christmas Eve despite Finland being a largely secular country today. The midnight service is especially popular among worshippers celebrating this holy night.
This brief summary encapsulates some key aspects of how Finns celebrate Christmas Eve – an amalgam of serene reflection, familial warmth, and age-old customs that continue to shape Finnish Yuletide festivities.
