Vappu

One of the largest festivals in Finland. On 1 May, Finns mark the arrival of spring with a carnival-like festival. All around the world, people gather to celebrate the working class and the labor movement on 1 May, Labour Day. Although Finland marks this occasion too, its festivities are very different as it also celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring. 

1 May is known as May Day in English, Vappu in Finnish, and Valborg in Swedish. The origins of this national holiday date back to pagan times, as it is named after the 8th-century Saint Walpurgis. Over time, May Day transformed into a nationwide carnival-like celebration that is now one of the biggest, most important festivals of the year.  Source: link 

​House of Finland annually organizes the “Vappu” party with the Finnish School in San Diego. The party has been a tradition for decades, gathering hundreds of people, including many of the Finns in Southern California. Every year, the lawn program includes fun activities for all ages. While the kids can enjoy playing a fun game called “Go Fishing,” the parents can buy delicious treats from the House. The House of Finland is well known for its delicious homemade offerings such as fish soup (lohikeitto), Finnish candy (irtokarkki), karelian pie (karjalanpiirakka), Finnish cinnamon rolls (korvapuusti), doughnuts (munkki), May Day drink (sima), rye bread (ruisleipä, saaristolaisleipä), etc. 
The Vappu celebration usually includes a show of well-known Finnish artists, a funny traditional skiing contest, “hiihtokisa,” and much more. In the past few years, the House of Finland has organized a silent auction where you can win Disneyland tickets, a gift basket, or even some Finnish design. 


The atmosphere of Vappu is something words are not enough to describe! Come and join us, and see for yourself. The Finnish Vappu is an experience you won’t forget!