Easter Sunday in Finland

Meaning and date

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland describes Easter as the joyful celebration of Christ’s resurrection, following the solemnity of Lent and Holy Week. Easter Sunday’s date moves each year: Finland’s University Almanac Office says it is calculated using the first Sunday after the full moon following 21 March.[1][2]

Easter is observed by Christians around the world as a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. In Finland, it is one of the Evangelical Lutheran Church’s church holidays, alongside Good Friday and Easter Monday.[1]

Public holiday and work

The University Almanac Office lists Easter Day among the church holidays specified under the Church Act and marks it as a paid public holiday. Whether an employee works or receives particular holiday arrangements can depend on their job and applicable employment terms.[1][5]

Finnish customs and food

Some of Finland’s best-known Easter customs take place before Easter Sunday. Children may dress as witches and visit homes with decorated willow twigs, offering a blessing in exchange for a small treat. The custom varies by region: children are more likely to visit on Easter Saturday in western Finland and on Palm Sunday elsewhere.[3]

Easter meals may include roast lamb and mämmi, a malt-and-rye pudding often served with cream and sugar. Pasha, a sweet cheese-based pudding associated especially with eastern Finland, is another seasonal dish. These foods and customs are traditions rather than universal practices, so celebrations vary between households.[3][4]

Planning your day

Do not assume every shop will be closed. Retail opening hours in Finland were deregulated, so individual businesses set their own hours; check directly with shops, restaurants and attractions before visiting. Public transport schedules are also set by their operators, so check the relevant route timetable when planning travel.[6]