New Year's Day 2025
Date: January 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
Country: Finland Public Holidays
Description
New Year s Day in Finland is the first day of the calendar year. It always falls on January 1. People see it as the moment when the old year ends and the new one begins.
The day is an official public holiday across the country. Many public services and workplaces are closed so people can rest and be with family or think quietly about the year ahead.
For Finns the holiday is important because it marks a fresh start. It is a time to set goals, think about changes, and look forward with hope. The new year also has symbolic meaning about renewal and starting again.
New Year s Day has cultural and social significance beyond the date. It brings a shared sense of turning a page in time and reminds people in Finland of community and continuity from year to year.
Traditions
People often begin with a hot sauna to relax before the celebrations. Families and friends gather to eat warm dishes like smoked salmon, salads, pies and hearty bread. Snacks and sweets appear on the table.
At midnight fireworks light the sky. People toast with sparkling wine or non alcoholic bubbly and exchange hugs or a kiss. Some towns have public concerts and big communal fireworks displays.
A popular home ritual is melting a small piece of tin or wax, then dropping it into cold water. People read the strange shape to guess the coming year. It is playful and meant for fun.
Many call or text New Year wishes and make simple resolutions. Loud cheering and singing happen as people welcome the first minutes together.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks and museums are closed or have reduced hours on New Year Day. Public transport runs but schedules are limited and may be crowded late night. Book trains or buses in advance and check timetables online before travel.
Watch for large public events and fireworks in city centers. Keep a safe distance from fireworks and follow police instructions. Bring warm clothing, carry ID and a charged phone. Enjoy quiet walks in parks, local cafes that are open, and small guided tours that run on holidays.