Christmas Eve, also known as Jouluaatto, is the climax of the Finnish holiday season. Although many countries prioritize Christmas Day, Finnish households make the 24th of December their top focus. This one-of-a-kind day combines centuries-old customs with modern Finnish life to create a peaceful and meaningful celebration that is both pleasant and culturally rich.

Finland’s approach to honoring this treasured event warrants closer consideration.

Peace declaration

Every year at noon, the city of Turku holds the Declaration of Christmas Peace, a tradition that dates back to the 1300s. It is broadcast on national television and radio, encouraging people to be peaceful and compassionate throughout the holiday season.

Many Finnish families start their day with a hot drink and sweets like joulutorttu (plum jam pastries), followed by this gloomy message. It sets a serene tone for the day by reminding everyone about the values of goodwill and reflection.

Sauna time

In Finnish houses, taking a Christmas sauna is considered a sacred practice. The sauna helps families transition from their everyday routines to the tranquility of a vacation by purifying their bodies and minds.

Typically, the sauna is heated in the early afternoon, and most people shower before dinner. Some families even leave out a light or towel in honor of dead loved ones, connecting the practice to ancestral respect.

Festive food

Jouluaatto’s central event is the Christmas Eve feast. This supper, which is frequently the most elaborate of the year, comprises items that symbolize both national and local Finnish culinary traditions.

Frequently, the table will contain this:

• Joulukinkku (Christmas ham): Joulukinkku is a slow-cooked ham wrapped in mustard and breadcrumbs.
• Casseroles: Include perunalaatikko (potato), porkkanalaatikko (carrot), and lanttulaatikko (swede).
• Rosolli: Is a colorful beetroot salad that is frequently served with whipped cream dressing.
• Gravlax: Or cured salmon slices, is sometimes served with dill and mustard sauce.
• Rice porridge: Is a warm treat with an almond hidden for good fortune.

Candle visits

Visiting graves to light candles for loved ones who have passed is one of the most moving events of Christmas Eve. After the feast, families carry candles and lanterns over the snow to local graveyards.

This custom transforms graveyards into beautiful, tranquil spaces filled with fluttering lights. Honoring ancestry and considering family history during the darkest season of the year is highly powerful.

Joulupukki arrives

In Finnish tradition, Joulupukki (Santa Claus) pays in-person visits to families on Christmas Eve, rather than overnight as in many other nations. Joulupukki, sometimes shown as a neighbor or grandmother, knocks on the door and asks, “Are there any well-behaved children here?”

Children perform music, read poetry, and unwrap presents directly from Joulupukki, making the experience interactive. It strengthens family bonds and is a lovely, personalized occasion.

Evening TV

After exchanging gifts, families unwind in the traditional Finnish way by wrapping themselves in blankets, sipping glögi (spiced wine), and watching vintage Christmas movies.

Favorites include:

• • Snowman
  • Joulupukki ja noitarumpu (Santa Claus and Magic Drum)

• Traditional church services or classical Finnish Christmas concerts

This peaceful moment of bonding concludes the celebration on a pleasant and comfortable note.

Modern touches

Although rituals remain essential, many Finnish families have added modern accents to their Jouluaatto celebrations. Urban houses may use virtual candles on internet memorial sites, serve vegan versions of traditional meals, or decorate with basic Scandinavian themes.

Gift-giving has evolved as well; some families, reflecting contemporary values of sustainability and shared experiences, prefer experience-based gifts such as spa vouchers or concert tickets.

Final thoughts

Christmas Eve is more than just a holiday in Finland; it is a valued cultural occasion filled with warmth, memories, and togetherness. Jouluaatto brings families together year after year via peaceful rituals, joyful meals, and unique customs.

Whether you are Finnish or simply inspired by their charming traditions, Finland’s celebration of this specific night has much for all of us to learn.