When planning a trip or work-related visit to Finland, it is essential to consider the country’s public holidays. During these days, many businesses, government offices, and even some tourist attractions may be closed or have reduced hours. Finland observes 13 public holidays, with several long weekends that may impact both travel plans and business operations.
Below is a comprehensive list of all public holidays in Finland for 2025:
Public Holidays in Finland 2025
- New Year’s Day (Uudenvuoden päivä) – January 1 (Wednesday)
The year begins with New Year’s Day, a national holiday celebrated with festivities and family gatherings. - Epiphany (Loppiainen) – January 6 (Monday)
This religious holiday, marking the visit of the Three Wise Men, is widely observed in Finland, with many businesses closed. - Good Friday (Pitkäperjantai) – April 18
Part of the Easter celebrations, Good Friday is a solemn Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. - Easter Sunday (Pääsiäispäivä) – April 20
A major religious holiday, Easter Sunday is celebrated with church services, family meals, and traditional customs. - Easter Monday (Pääsiäinen) – April 21
Following Easter Sunday, this public holiday is also widely observed, with many businesses remaining closed. - Labour Day (Vapunpäivä) – May 1 (Thursday)
Celebrated with parades and festivities, Labour Day is a major public holiday in Finland, marking the rights of workers. - Ascension Day (Helatorstai) – May 29 (Thursday)
This Christian holiday, occurring 40 days after Easter, commemorates the ascension of Jesus into heaven. - Pentecost (Helluntai) – June 8 (Sunday)
Also known as Whitsunday, this religious holiday celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. - Midsummer (Juhannus) – June 20-21 (Friday and Saturday)
Midsummer is one of Finland’s most important holidays, celebrated with bonfires, music, and festivities. The actual public holiday falls on Saturday, but the celebrations often start on Friday evening. - All Saints’ Day (Pyhäinpäivä) – November 1 (Saturday)
This day honors the memory of deceased loved ones, with many people visiting cemeteries and lighting candles. - Independence Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä) – December 6 (Saturday)
Finland’s national holiday commemorates its declaration of independence from Russia in 1917. The day is marked with ceremonies, patriotic events, and candlelit windows. - Christmas Eve (Jouluaatto) – December 24 (Wednesday)
While not an official public holiday, Christmas Eve is a significant celebration in Finland. Many businesses close early, allowing people to gather with family. - Christmas Day (Joulupäivä) – December 25 (Thursday)
One of the most important holidays of the year, Christmas Day is marked by family gatherings, festive meals, and religious services. - Boxing Day (Tapaninpäivä) – December 26 (Friday)
Also known as St. Stephen’s Day, this holiday is part of the extended Christmas celebrations, with many businesses and services closed.
Planning Tips
When traveling or conducting business in Finland, it is important to keep these public holidays in mind. During major holidays, public transportation may operate on limited schedules, and many shops, restaurants, and attractions could be closed. Additionally, popular destinations might be busier during long weekends, especially around Midsummer and Christmas.
By considering Finland’s public holidays in your planning, you can avoid unexpected closures and make the most of your visit or business trip.