Visiting Finland? Shopping may feel quiet and efficient — just how Finns like it. From minimal greetings to strict queuing and strong self-service culture, a few simple habits will help you blend in. Discover why “kiitos,” personal space, and calm order matter in Finnish shops.

Finnish Father’s Day, or Isänpäivä, is celebrated on the second Sunday of November to honor fathers and grandfathers. Families show appreciation with breakfast in bed, handmade cards, and quality time together. The Finnish flag is raised nationwide, and gifts are modest — such as books, sweets, or wool socks. People greet each other with “Hyvää isänpäivää!”, meaning Happy Father’s Day.

Halloween in Finland blends American-style fun with Nordic simplicity. While not an official holiday, it’s become a popular way to brighten dark autumn nights. Finns carve pumpkins, host costume parties, and children go “karkki vai kepponen” trick-or-treating. Many also honor All Saints’ Day by lighting candles on graves, balancing spooky fun with peaceful remembrance.

In Finland, winter brings freezing temperatures and deep snow, but pets adapt well. Many dogs love playing in the snow, protected by their thick fur or winter clothes if needed. Cats usually stay indoors, watching the snowy world from cozy spots. Some, wearing jumpers, venture out briefly. Dog sledding, especially with huskies, is a famous winter activity in Lapland, where these strong dogs thrive in the cold. Finnish pets don’t just survive winter—they enjoy it as part of th

A Guide to Finland's Unique Celebrations Finland, a land of stunning natural beauty and fascinating culture, has holidays that go beyond...