Shrovetide

March 4, Tuesday

Shrovetide in Finland, known as Laskiainen, is celebrated seven weeks before Easter, usually in February. The exact date changes every year as it depends on the lunar calendar.

Historical origin
Shrovetide has its roots in ancient peasant traditions and is associated with the beginning of Lent. Originally, this day was celebrated as a combination of a folk winter festival and a Christian event marking the approach of Easter.

Traditions and customs
Shrovetide in Finland is a holiday of winter fun and delicious food. Main traditions include:

* sledding down hills;
* preparing pea soup and buns with whipped cream and jam, called laskiaispulla;
* family walks and meeting friends outdoors.

It was once believed that the further and faster you sled down the hill, the better the harvest would be in summer. Today, this holiday has become a fun winter day for all generations.

Modern celebration
In schools and kindergartens in Finland, special events with games and treats are held. In many towns, there are mass sledding activities and winter festivals. Although Shrovetide is not an official public holiday, it is widely celebrated and considered an important part of Finnish culture.

Significance of the holiday
Shrovetide symbolizes the transition from winter to spring, the joy of socializing, and the preservation of folk traditions. This day reminds Finns of the value of simple pleasures and family time spent together.

Shrovetide – days left: 140. Create Countdown to Event

Shrovetide in other years

2022 March 1, Tuesday
2023 February 21, Tuesday
2024 February 13, Tuesday
2026 February 17, Tuesday