Åland Islands Public Holidays 2025
Åland Islands has 12 public holidays and 5 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wed | New Year's Day | public | |
| Mon | Epiphany | public | |
| Sun | Demilitarization Day | public | |
| Fri | Good Friday | public | |
| Sun | Easter Sunday | observance | |
| Mon | Easter Monday | public | |
| Thu | Labour Day | public | |
| Thu | Ascension Day | public | |
| Sun | Pentecost | observance | |
| Mon | Autonomy Day | public | |
| Fri | Midsummer Eve | bank | |
| Sat | Midsummer Day | public | |
| Sat | Independence Day | public | |
| Wed | Christmas Eve | bank | |
| Thu | Christmas Day | public | |
| Fri | Boxing Day | public | |
| Wed | New Year's Eve | bank |
About Åland Islands's Holidays
The Åland Islands mix Finnish public holidays with Swedish culture. Official days off follow Finland, but the islands celebrate in Swedish language and style. Work and school closures match national holidays so people can join family and town events.
Local identity shapes many celebrations. Autonomy Day and flag days honor Åland self government and history. Midsummer is a big cultural festival with bonfires, boating, and outdoor meals. Religious holidays like Easter and Christmas are observed with local customs, markets, and church services.
Tourism and maritime life add festivals tied to sailing, fishery and summer markets. May Day and Independence Day are observed in ways that blend Finnish national pride with Ålandic traditions and community gatherings.
Holiday Traditions
People in Åland celebrate with strong local pride. Families gather to share meals, sing and wear folk costumes for special events. People often go to church services or outdoor gatherings, enjoying the islands nature and sea air together.
Food is important and is often fish, smoked or pickled, with potatoes and local breads. Sweet pastries and cakes are common at home and at community events. Homemade dishes are shared among relatives and friends, creating warm, familiar meals that connect generations.
Public celebrations include small parades, concerts and markets in town squares. Flags fly everywhere and people meet in parks or by the harbor. Community clubs organize cultural shows and children join games and music.
Travel Tips
Many shops, museums and services close on public holidays and Sundays. Main towns have some restaurants and shops open, but pharmacies and banks often stay closed. Emergency services still operate, so you will not be stranded.
Ferry schedules are reduced on holidays and in winter. Book ferries and any car or cabin ahead. Local buses run less often and taxis are limited, so plan connections and allow extra time. Ferries link Åland with Finland and Sweden.
Expect the islands to be busiest around major holidays and in summer. Check official opening hours before you travel. Bring warm clothes, some cash and charger adapters. Reserve accommodation and transport early for peace of mind.