Easter Monday in Finland

History and Traditions:

Easter Monday, known as "toinen pääsiäispäivä" in Finnish, follows the Christian celebration of Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The day is part of the Easter period, a significant religious event in Christianity that also has intertwined cultural traditions.

Finland, with its Lutheran heritage, observes Easter with a blend of religious reverence and folk customs. While Easter Monday does not have as many unique traditions as Easter Sunday, it still holds importance for both religious and secular Finns.

Modern Observations:

On Easter Monday in Finland:

• Religious Services: Some people attend church services. However, these are usually not as well-attended as those on Good Friday or Easter Sunday.

• Time with Family and Friends: It is common for people to spend time with family and friends. This often includes enjoying meals together and possibly leftover mämmi (a traditional Finnish Easter dessert made from rye flour).

• Outdoor Activities: As the holiday falls during springtime when the weather starts to warm up, many Finns take the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities like walking or picnicking if the weather permits.

• Virpominen Tradition: Although more associated with Palm Sunday in Finland, children might still participate in "virpominen," a tradition where they dress up as witches and go door-to-door wishing health and prosperity in exchange for treats. However, this is more commonly done on the Saturday before Easter or Palm Sunday.

• Public Holiday: It is a public holiday across Finland, so most businesses are closed allowing people to relax and enjoy leisure activities.

Easter Monday serves as an extension of the relaxation period that starts with Good Friday and continues through Easter weekend. It provides an opportunity for reflection or recreation before returning to normal daily life after the holiday period.