May 1st Vappu Celebration in Finland

May Day is internationally known as a "Workers Day". " In Finland "May Day" became an official flag-raising day in 1978, and was named "The Day of Finnish Work". On May Day there are marches by all the parties and politicians and union leaders are making speeches.

On the Eve of Vappu (April 30) in Helsinki most people hang out between Esplanad park and the main square Kauppatori, around the harbor area and on the Senaatintori Square. At 6pm, Havis Amanda, Helsinki’s nude female statue on top of a fountain, receives her oversized white graduation cap. Since the fountain is fully operational at the time of the capping, several students don’t hesitate to go for a swim, no matter the temperature.

May 1 belongs to picnics and performances so you’ll want to hang out in Kaivopuisto park (called also Kaivari by locals) and by the sea in Ullanlinna area – with your picnic blanket, plentiful snacks and drinks, and warm clothing.