Traditional Finnish Christmas Celebrates Peace and Delicious Food
In Finland, Christmas is the most anticipated celebration of the year, bringing families together and filling homes with warmth, light, and delightful aromas. Christmas is strongly associated with slowing down during the darkest time of winter, with candles, Christmas lights, and the glow of fireplaces creating a cozy atmosphere.

Christmas Table Classics
The Finnish Christmas table is packed with traditional dishes, many of which have been enjoyed for decades, even centuries. One of the highlights of the celebration is the Christmas ham, which many Finns consider the centerpiece of the Christmas feast. The ham is slow-roasted in the oven and typically served with mustard and alongside casseroles such as rutabaga, carrot, and potato.

Christmas casseroles are a key part of the Finnish holiday meal. These soft and rich dishes, like rutabaga casserole, carrot casserole, and potato casserole, have been enjoyed in Finland for generations. Rosolli, a traditional Finnish beetroot salad, is also a typical side dish, adding color and freshness to the festive table.

Fish Dishes in a Central Role
Fish plays a significant role in the Finnish Christmas celebration. Gravlax, or cured salmon, and various herring dishes are staples on many family tables. The fish is carefully prepared and often served with archipelago bread, a dark, slightly sweet bread. Herring rolls and roe with accompaniments are also popular as Christmas appetizers.

Desserts and Christmas Treats
Sweet treats are an essential part of the Finnish Christmas meal. Rice porridge with cinnamon sugar and prune soup is a common breakfast on Christmas Eve morning. A hidden almond in the porridge is a playful tradition—whoever finds it is said to have good luck.

When it comes to baked goods, traditional Christmas tarts filled with prune jam and folded into star shapes are a common sight in Finnish households. Gingerbread cookies and chocolates are also important parts of Christmas coffee moments.

Christmas is a Time for Togetherness and Peace
Christmas is about more than just food. For Finns, the holiday is a time for spiritual reflection and spending quality time with family and loved ones. Many visit cemeteries on Christmas Eve to light candles on the graves of departed loved ones, a beautiful tradition that creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Finnish Christmas is a blend of traditions, delicious flavors, and heartwarming togetherness.