In Finland, public holidays are important occasions that provide time for rest, celebration, and reflection. For 2024, employees can expect a total of 12 public holidays. Below is the list of public holidays along with their respective dates and brief descriptions.
Public Holidays in 2024
New Year’s Day (Uudenvuodenpäivä)
Date: January 1, 2024 (Monday)
Description: Celebrating the start of the new year, this holiday is often marked with fireworks and festivities.
Epiphany (Loppiainen)
Date: January 6, 2024 (Saturday)
Description: This holiday commemorates the arrival of the Magi and marks the end of the Christmas season.
Good Friday (Pitkäperjantai)
Date: March 29, 2024 (Friday)
Description: A significant day in the Christian calendar, observing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Easter Monday (Toinen pääsiäispäivä)
Date: April 1, 2024 (Monday)
Description: The day after Easter Sunday, providing an extended holiday for families to celebrate together.
May Day (Vappu)
Date: May 1, 2024 (Wednesday)
Description: A celebration of spring and labor, marked by picnics and public festivities.
Ascension Day (Helatorstai)
Date: May 9, 2024 (Thursday)
Description: Commemorating the ascension of Jesus into heaven, this holiday is observed with church services.
Pentecost (Helluntai)
Date: May 19, 2024 (Sunday)
Description: Celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit, this holiday often includes religious observances.
Midsummer (Juhannus)
Date: June 22, 2024 (Saturday)
Description: A major Finnish holiday celebrating the summer solstice, often celebrated with bonfires and gatherings.
All Saints’ Day (Pyhäinpäivä)
Date: November 2, 2024 (Saturday)
Description: A day of remembrance for saints and departed loved ones, usually marked by candlelight vigils.
Independence Day (Itsenäisyyspäivä)
Date: December 6, 2024 (Friday)
Description: Celebrating Finland's independence from Russia, this day features official ceremonies and celebrations.
Christmas Eve (Jouluaatto)
Date: December 24, 2024 (Tuesday)
Description: A significant day in Finnish tradition, families gather for festive meals and celebrations.
Christmas Day (Joulupäivä)
Date: December 25, 2024 (Wednesday)
Description: Celebrated as a day for family gatherings and traditional Christmas meals.
Boxing Day (Tapaninpäivä)
Date: December 26, 2024 (Thursday)
Description: This holiday continues the Christmas celebrations and is often a day for relaxation.
Important Note on Holidays Falling on Weekends
If a public holiday falls on a weekend, there is no additional holiday automatically provided on the following Monday. Employees should plan accordingly, as these holidays are fixed and do not shift to weekdays.