Foreigners believe that Finns are constrained and a little uptight people, but this is not so. Their taciturnity and conservatism are associated with mentality, and they live well in their harsh little world. Finnish traditions are known all over the world, such as visiting a real sauna and fishing.
Finnish traditions and customs go deep into antiquity. They never raise their voice and speak slowly. They argue that there is no point in rushing, and it can take away something valuable or cause you to miss an important life moment. They go skiing, communing with nature, or prefer ice fishing, during which they can sit in silence and think about life.
Bath, sauna, fishing, hunting
Finland and its traditions are attracting more and more tourists to Finnish territory. Russians imagine a real Finn: in a sauna with a fishing rod in hand and a keg of beer. In Finland people want to go to the bathhouse almost every day, which may be why most Finns there radiate health. If in Russia going to the sauna is associated with a feast: a sea of snacks and alcohol, then in Finland this is not welcome.
Many tourists come to Finnish soil to rent a hunting lodge: hunt and fish. Every home, even in a deep forest, has a home sauna, where people go not to wash, but to relax. It is difficult to meet a Finn who does not know how to shoot a gun, or who has not gone hunting at least once.
Finland is located on the Scandinavian Peninsula and is surrounded by picturesque nature, many lakes and rivers. It is difficult to find a street where there is not a fishing shop where you can fully prepare for a trip to the lakes and go fishing. By the way, gear in Finland can be bought at a reasonable price and is of very high quality.
On a note! Finnish territory welcomes tourists all year round. You can go skiing or on a reindeer sled, or you can live in an ice house and go fishing on the lake with a gun at the ready.
Features of the Finnish greeting
Finns value their customs very much, and if you want to offend a Finn, say something disrespectful about their traditions. Russians are always surprised by Finnish greetings. They consider him very reserved. If in Russia it is not customary to greet women, then in Finland, when meeting, a Finn shakes hands first of all with women. Some say that this is due to gender equality, while others claim that they simply respect the female gender very much there. And this is not surprising, because the first female president appeared in Finland.
Russians hug and pat each other on the shoulder, this is how we show our feelings, but Finns consider showing emotions in public to be in bad form. Despite this, Finns have no concept of “you”. They communicate casually even with a person they have seen for the first time. Some may consider this familiarity, but in fact they love easy communication, despite the conservatism of their nation.
On a note! Finns are famous for their longevity and in a healthy way life. They harden, refuse bad habits, take a steam bath and live in the lap of nature.
Features of national character and culture
Finland is culture and traditions with capital letters. Finns are hospitable and tactful. It is difficult to meet an angry resident of this gray country or shouting at someone. National and cultural traditions disputes are known throughout the world. When people come to visit them, they carefully prepare for this event: they buy gifts and set a luxurious table.
To like it Finnish woman, she needs to make sure that he respects her and accepts her independence. Most women in Finland earn much more than their husbands. However, in public catering places, everyone pays for themselves and this is the norm.
Drinking tea among the Finns is a real ritual. Tea can be drunk for hours without any sweets or cakes. In addition, Finns are accustomed to leaving tips everywhere: be it a hotel, a bartender or a taxi driver. Despite this, everyone knows that a tip is always included in the bill, but they consider it bad manners if they do not leave something beyond the payment.
Many people will say that Finland is not very good developed country, because they have only recently mastered mobile technology and are not a fan of gadgets, like the rest of Europe. Finn will never take his phone with him to the cinema or museum. It is considered highly indecent to talk on a smartphone near a church, and visiting God’s monastery with a mobile phone is considered blasphemy.
In Finland they are very kind to animals. There are many shelters throughout the country; this small state surpasses Russia in the number of “homes for homeless animals.” Almost every family has a dog that lives not on the street, but in the house. They sincerely love their pets, and every tourist wants to ride a sleigh pulled by dogs.
On a note! If a person sees that there is no ashtray anywhere nearby, it means that smoking is not allowed in that place. It’s better to be on the safe side and ask permission from the owner, hotel or cafe administrator.
healthy lifestyle
The main activities of Finns are sauna, fishing, hunting and sports. Active image Finns start their lives from the very beginning young age. It is difficult to meet a child growing up in Finland who does not know how to confidently ski or snowboard. They love hiking, and plan the route in advance. This hike can last for a week, and travelers will cover a path of several hundred kilometers.
Numerous ski resorts are inhabited not only by tourists from other countries. The Finns themselves love to relax on their slopes and rarely go on vacation to another country, except to laze on the beach. Finland has a cold sea, this is the only disadvantage of this country if a tourist likes warmth.
Finns are very fond of fish dishes and chocolate. Every tourist visiting Finland should try national cuisine. For example, the famous Finnish sausages, garlic or onion soups, as well as delicious pies with various fillings. We can't help but say something about beer. Having tasted beer in Finland, everyone will say that it is the most delicious drink in the world.
Note to tourists! When visiting this northern country, be sure to buy Finnish vodka and delicate liqueur at 50 degrees, visit the saunas, go fishing and go skiing.
In the modern world there are many different countries and nationalities. Each nation and state has its own history, culture, customs and much more interesting things. If you get together and travel to all countries of the world, it will take a lot of time, but the trip will be very interesting.
One of the most beautiful historical countries is the country close to us, Finland. Residents of Finland are one of the happiest people on the planet, because last years The country confidently leads the list of the happiest countries. All conditions for a good life for people have been created here!
Population and mentality
Finland is not a large country and neither is its population compared to Russia. The current population is five and a half million.
Like any people, the Finns have their own characteristics and customs. For any Russian person, a sauna immediately comes to mind when thinking about Finland. But there are many interesting moments, which many have not heard of.
Here are some of them:
- Finns love to read newspapers. The country occupies a leading position in terms of total press circulation relative to population. In addition, Finns are the complete opposite of talkative Italians; they like to remain silent.
- Residents of this state love coffee very much and, according to statistics, drink a liter per month. Perhaps the reason for this is the climate; in this country there is very short daylight from autumn to spring, and most of the year is cold - coffee will warm you up and give you energy.
- Finns are a reserved and modest people; they do not accept familiarity or familiarity.
- Finnish people Almost everyone loves to sing - in chorus! This national trait of this people since the 12th century. The choirs here are a variety of male and female, mixed, children's, student, church, military, professional and amateur.
- A trait that is inherent in Finns is that they can easily tolerate frost and cold. If there is a slight thaw, the population rushes to undress immediately, without fear of catching a cold.
- An exceptionally national Finnish delicacy is licorice lozenges. They are black in color and made from licorice root.
One can also add to the characteristics of the Finnish mentality that the inhabitants of this northern country do not like to rush - the well-known Finnish slowness! 
An extra point in favor of this nation for its meticulous punctuality. It is in the blood of this people that it is bad manners if you are late for something.
The people of Finland are very responsible and reliable. And this is a very valuable quality for business relations in business.
Name of the inhabitants of Finland
What is the correct way to write “resident of Finland”: Finn or Finn? The inhabitants of Finland are correctly called Finns, and men and women are called Finns and Finns. That's what it says on Wikipedia.
Previously, the inhabitants of the country were called by the name of the country - Finns and Finnish and Finnish.
The Finns call their country Suomi. Suomma - there are several versions of the translation of this word: swamp or fish scales, or another name small people living in Lapland and northern Norway.
The inhabitants of Suomi are nomadic tribes of reindeer herders with their own language and customs. From the translation of Swedish finnland– beautiful land.
Language composition
It will be very surprising to learn that until the beginning of the 19th century, only Swedish was spoken in the state. For almost seven hundred years Finland was under Swedish rule. And after joining in 1809 Russian Empire, Russian language has been added. After the publication of the imperial decree in 1863. before the revolution of 1917 in the Principality of Finland there were three official languages:
- Swedish;
- Russian;
- Finnish.
After the state gained independence in 1922. and to this day there are two official languages: Finnish and Swedish.
Nowadays, almost all of Finland, the main part of the country - about 92% speaks Finnish. Just over 5% are native Swedish speakers, and 1% each speak Russian and Estonian.
Culture and art
Finland is a country where traditions are loved and respected, national customs. The culture, however, is influenced by Sweden, and there is very little Russian culture.
After secession from Russia, Finland intensified national patriotism. Finns love everything domestic: from manufacturers to ethnic folk holidays. 
Popular and interesting in culture:
- Many have gained worldwide fame literary works. The most popular of them is about the fairy-tale creatures Moomintrolls, written by the wonderful writer and artist Tove Janson. There are mummy troll fan clubs all over the world, and in the country there is even a park of the same name.
- The pride of the country is the famous epic “Kalevala”, based on which film directors and artists have been inspired in their work over the last century. And the country is hosting everyone’s favorite Kalevala carnival, with an ethnic theme.
- Finns of the 21st century love everything related to the Middle Ages and Scandinavian myths. And of course, that’s why there are many medieval themed festivals here.
- The pride of the Finns is the founder of the Scandinavian style - designer Alvar Aalto, who created the famous Paimio chair in 1933. It is still relevant today. Ero Aarnio, another famous designer in the 60s of the last century, conquered the world with his ball chair. And now Finnish furniture and design are popular and respected in the world.
- Fashion designers are also popular in Europe and the USA. Original items with traditional thematic patterns are always in demand!
- The culture of Finland is well developed; in the capital of Helsinki alone it is possible to visit twenty theaters with classical and modern repertoire, as well as opera. As a rule, in any big city definitely have Symphony Orchestra.
- IN Finnish museums canvases are exhibited domestic artists, and painting in the country began to develop only in the middle of the 19th century.
- Finns are very musical people. Annual festivals of classical, rock, jazz, and pop music are held. Among Finnish contemporary musicians, the band Apocalyptica, which performs metal on cellos, has become famous!
Education. Religion
In Finland, education is very high level. According to OECD research in 2013, the Finnish population is older school age, ranks second in terms of knowledge after Japan and Sweden. But, unfortunately, fourth grade students began to read significantly less (possibly due to gadgets), which corresponds to 45th place among countries, and these are the bottom lines of the ranking.
Training in secondary school lasts nine years academic year from August to May inclusive.
Interesting! In Finland there is a law that states that when a child (up to 6th grade) has to travel more than two kilometers to school. He must be transported there and back by taxi at the expense of the municipality.
Religion is not very widespread in the country. The bulk of believers are Lutherans - more than 75%, Orthodox - no more than 1%, and the same percentage for other religions.
It should be noted that among Lutherans a large percentage are Laestadians (conservative trend). Due to the large migration of Muslims, the construction of mosques is now planned.
Population composition
Currently, the population in the state is approximately equal to both men and women.
The average life expectancy of Finns is quite long:
- in women under 83 years of age;
- in men up to 77 years of age.
In recent years, the number of centenarians over 100 years of age has increased. 
A large number of Finns, up to 70%, live in cities and surrounding areas. This area represents 5% of the entire Finland.
Population census
The population has increased rapidly since the mid-twentieth century; over the past 65 years, the increase has amounted to one and a half million people.
In recent years, according to statistics, the number and birth rate of Finns has been declining, while the number of migrants has been increasing.
Video: interesting features of the inhabitants of Finland
Finland is a country with special traditions. The way Finns behave, their restraint and slowness correspond to the temperamental characteristics of these people. In the old days, loudness was a sign of bad manners, and they still honor this custom. Our time has had virtually no effect on their attitude towards loud and overly active people.
For Finns, a visit to friends and relatives is an event that takes a couple of weeks to prepare for. Great importance has preparation for the evening, table and gift. Finns are great patriots, so it is preferable to give goods from local producers. In this regard, even in the most expensive imported exclusive they do not see a reason for delight.
Finns are quite punctual. They believe that accuracy is a sign of prosperity. There is no doubt that a person who is late for an appointment without warning does not deserve respect; he is a frivolous person. Finns think this way, unlike some of our people.
The most favorite and traditional hobby for Finns is fishing, then skiing and, finally, sauna. There are many saunas in Finland, about a million saunas for less than five million people. Saunas are built to be used by a small number of people. Visiting a bathhouse is a ritual. Baths, as a rule, are built in a quiet, peaceful place near a lake. In the bath they gain strength and restore peace of mind, and not only wash themselves.
Finns are very passionate about fishing. Finland is immensely rich in lakes, and Finns protect nature for posterity, so they catch only as much fish as is required in this situation, regardless of the good bite. A real Finnish fisherman will not allow the use of electronic fishing rods from the modern arsenal of fishermen. They use basic fishing gear.
To fish in the country, you need a license. Buying it is not a problem, because they are sold everywhere: in special vending machines, in police stations and even in libraries.
Finns take great care of dogs. In Finland, much attention is paid to animal shelters: these are kennel clubs that were created back in the nineteenth century. Finland has managed to solve the problem of stray dogs. There are practically none. They are building areas for walking animals. Specialized stores sell dog care products and food for them. The Humane Society monitors the welfare, health and nutrition of dogs.
Almost 70% of the country's budget is allocated for the development of sports. The sports and fitness program is very strong. A love of sports is instilled in childhood, which is perhaps why Finns are so keen on sports. On city streets you can meet older people who, in any weather, enthusiastically do sport exercises. All Finns engage in physical education: from the youngest to the elderly.
Finns are especially fond of orienteering and skiing. There are 140 ski centers in the country, where ski slopes are provided for everyone: professionals, beginners or experienced amateurs. In February, lovers of ski holidays go to Lapland. Finns honor the traditions of their people, their country, they are faithful to their culture. In conclusion, I would like to say that this is the most basic Finnish tradition - to remember the past, to remember the history of our people.
In Finnish culture National motives and traditions are strong, but at the same time it cannot be called conservative. Finland has always been strongly influenced by Sweden; Swedish is the second official language here. Russian culture hardly left its mark, and secession from Russia in 1917 intensified the Finns' search for national identity and heightened their sense of patriotism. Finnish patriotism is manifested in everything: from love for ethnic holidays to loyalty to domestic producers of goods.
The Finns never tire of being proud of their epic “Kalevala,” the plots of which inspired painters and film directors throughout the 20th century. The texts of ancient runes can be heard in the songs of the modern rock band Amorphis. February 28 is the day when the first copies of the Kalevala, carefully collected by Elias Lönnrot, were published in 1835. For more than a century, on this day in Finland, official themed holidays and the “Kalevala Carnival” have been held - a colorful spectacle on the streets of big cities.
Interestingly, another Finnish literary achievement that has gained worldwide fame is also based on fairy tales and myths. It's about about children's books by Tove Jannson, a Finnish artist and writer. The heroes of her stories are the Moomins fairy creatures, generated Scandinavian mythology and the imagination of Tove. Their funny adventures, always filled with humor and a philosophical attitude to life, are loved by readers from all over the world. Thousands of people join fan clubs of these children's characters. Not far from the Finnish city of Turku there is a Moomin Park, where you and your children can immerse themselves in the world good fairy tale. The park is open at summer season, because in winter the Moomins hibernate.
It should be noted that the mythology of Finnish forests also inspired the world famous J.R.R. Tolkien.
Modern Finns are very fond of everything related to Scandinavian myths and the Middle Ages. If you are thinking about how to diversify your summer holiday in Finland, without a doubt, go to one of the many medieval festivals. One of the most popular - Annual Medieval Festival to Turku. It attracts hundreds of tourists and involves all citizens and guests in its action. On the Old Square, stalls with treats are set up, master classes are held on traditional crafts. Here and there on the old streets of the city you can see scenes from the life of medieval Turku. Knight tournaments and evenings theatrical performances– vibrant spectacles that will help you feel the magic of time.
The best proof is that in Finnish culture Tradition and modernity coexist perfectly - this is the world fame of Finnish design. Since the 1930s, the love for national roots and mythology has not stopped Finnish furniture designers from creating items that fit perfectly into modern world globalism. The Paimio chair, made in 1933 by designer Alvar Aalto using new plywood processing technologies, is still popular in Nordic-style interiors. In the 1960s, the plastic ball chair by designer Ero Aarnio captivated the world, after which he also created the bubble chair and the flatbread chair. Modern Finnish interior and furniture design is the embodiment of the Finnish character. He combines restraint and comfort, a love for natural materials and modern technologies.
Furniture designers are not far behind Finnish fashion designers. Many Finnish brands are popular in Europe and the USA. Designers such as Mai Niemi, Paola Suhonen, Minna Parikka create original things, turning to traditional Karelian ornaments and experimenting with shape and color. By updating your wardrobe in the boutiques of Finnish fashion designers, you can be sure that you are keeping up with global trends.
As you already understood, to penetrate Finnish culture you can easily and naturally, walking through medieval fairs, amusement parks and shopping centers. But, of course, for lovers of artistic experiences, the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” is fraught with thousands of possibilities. In the capital of Finland, Helsinki, you can visit Finnish national theater and Finnish national opera. In total, the capital of Finland has 20 theaters that present classical and modern dramaturgy. Almost every major city has its own symphony orchestra, and the performing arts here are at their best.
IN art museums presents the achievements of Finnish painting, which began to develop as an independent national school with mid-19th century. It is interesting that among the successful painters of the 19th century there were also women, which is very rare for European countries that time.
Museums contemporary art in Finland often occupy buildings of former industrial sites. Thus, the Cable Factory in Helsinki and former printing houses in Espoo and Tampere were given to curators and artists. One of the most popular museums contemporary art in Helsinki – Kiasma – is located in an ultra-modern building. Here traditional works and modern installations, and in a small concert hall There are performances by avant-garde musicians.
There is a special attitude towards music in Finland. In the summer, many cities host music festivals in open areas. The range of preferences is wide: rock (festivals in Turku, Helsinki, Jämsä), jazz, tango (“Pori-Jazz” and “Tango Fair” in Seinajoki), classical music (opera festival in Savonlinna), electronics (indie rock and electronic music festival in Helsinki). Music Festival in Finland – great way have a good time at fresh air, get acquainted with interesting people and enjoy high-quality, sometimes unexpected music. Finns love musical experiments. One of them is metal on cellos from Apocalyptica bands- gained worldwide fame.
Public holidays in Finland (weekends)
January 1 is New Year's celebration (shops are closed, and December 31 and January 2 are working days).
January 6 – Epiphany or Epiphany.
April 5, 20915 – Easter, lasts 4 days (dates on next years: 2016 – March 27, 2017 – April 16, 2018 – April 1, 2019 – April 21, 2020 – April 12). The first two days of Easter, stores are closed.
May 1 – Spring Festival “Vapunpäivä” (shops are closed).
May 28 (the date changes every year, on Thursdays) – Ascension.
May-June - Pentecost (Helluntai).
June 20 – Midsummer Day (always celebrated on Saturday).
November 1-2 – All Saints Day and Remembrance Day.
December 6 – Finnish Independence Day (all shops are closed).
December 24-26 – Christmas Day: on Christmas Eve, the 24th, stores close at noon; 25 – everything is closed; on the second day of Christmas, the 26th, shops are open from 12 to 16, grocery stores - until 18:00; The 27th is a working day, the beginning of Christmas sales.
Finnish national holidays (working days)
In addition to the main large-scale holidays, other holidays are celebrated in Finland. memorable dates, however, unlike state celebrations, these days are not considered days off.
February 5 is the Day of the Finnish national poet Runeberg, he is the author of the National Anthem of Finland.
On February 14, instead of the usual Valentine's Day, Finland celebrates Friends' Day.
Finns celebrate February 21st "Fat Tuesday"(Laskiainen).
February 28 – Day folk epic"Kalevala".
On March 8, Finland traditionally celebrates International Women's Day.
March 19 marks two holidays: Equality Day and Minna Kant Day.
April 9 is Mikael Agricola Day, or Finnish Language Day.
April 27 is National Veterans Day.
May 12 – Finnish Culture Day.
May 13 – Mother's Day.
May 16 is the Day of Remembrance of the Victims.
June 4 – Day Finnish flag and Finnish Defense Forces Day.
July 6 – Day Eino Leino.
October 10 is Finnish Literature Day, also known as Alexis Kivi Day.
October 24 is International United Nations Day.
November 6 is Swedish Culture Day in Finland.
11th of November - Father's Day.
December 8 – Finnish Music Day, or Jean Sibelius Day.
December 13th is Lucia Day.
I suggest you learn more about the main national characteristics Finnish population . And, in order to avoid minor misunderstandings, while vacationing in Finland, I advise you to familiarize yourself with Finnish traditions and customs.
Finns are considered conservative, and even old-fashioned. In every Finn there lives an aristocrat - calm and sedate, speaking slowly and judiciously.
Finns are very respectful of traditions and customs passed down from generation to generation. And, if possible, they try to strictly follow them. In addition, they are wary of an interlocutor who speaks too loudly or quickly; this can be regarded as a sign of rudeness. Interrupting your interlocutor without allowing him to finish his thought, or talking with your hands in your pockets is a sign of impoliteness. Looking away or looking around during a conversation is regarded by Finns as a clear sign of your cunning.
Finns prefer to resolve disputes peacefully - “at the negotiating table.”
When communicating with Finns, you should be careful about your words and remember the proverb: “The laughter of a smart person is not heard, but seen.”
The Finns are very hospitable; even in cases of extreme poverty, a guest who visited their home was offered the best food.
Traditionally, Finns spend a long time preparing for visiting and receiving guests. Everything is carefully thought out - the menu and entertainment. It is customary to give symbolic gifts to the hospitable owners of the house. Speaking of gifts, Finns prefer to receive gifts made by domestic manufacturers, probably in this way expressing support for the latter.
Finns respect the traditions and customs left by their ancestors. You'll never see local residents demonstrated hostility or detachment from national Finnish traditions and customs; on the contrary, they evoke only respect and patriotism.
The national feature of the Finns is reindeer breeding, a kind of business. In addition, in Finland it is not customary to ask the question: “How many reindeer do you have?” It is tactless, and no one can answer this question for you. Here you can often find reindeer breeding farms and excursions in which tourists are offered a ride in a reindeer sleigh. By the way, this is one of the most popular types of entertainment in Finland.
Traditionally, Finns are quite punctual, so when you make an appointment, try not to be late, otherwise it may be regarded as a sign of frivolity and lack of respect.
According to Finnish customs, relations between the sexes are built on the principle of equality and partnership. For example, when paying a bill in a restaurant, it is customary for everyone to pay for themselves. However, offering to pay the bill yourself is a completely acceptable option, but it is not a fact that your opponent will agree to this.
The Finnish greeting is expressed in a handshake, and women greet in this way both among themselves and with men. In rare cases, a handshake is accompanied by a modest kiss on the cheek; this applies exclusively to mutual greetings between women.
Finnish women value politeness in men and their attitude towards female independence. In turn, kissing the hand of a Finnish woman is regarded as a manifestation of gallantry, but it is almost impossible to meet such a gallant Finnish gentleman.
Finnish traditions do not allow showing your feelings in public. Because of the conservatism of the Finns, making friends with them is quite difficult, but still possible. And if you managed to make friends with a Finn, consider that you have found a true and good friend, friendship with whom will last for many years.
Another national feature of the Finnish population is their love for saunas and steam baths. Saunas are a kind of canonical object of worship; there are countless of them here.
Finns begin building a house after they build a sauna. Probably, the Finns’ love for the steam room is due to harsh climate, lack of warmth and sun, and as an option for a pleasant pastime on cold winter evenings.
Finns' favorite leisure activities are fishing, going to the sauna, family gatherings by the fireplace, skiing and snowboarding.
A traditional Finnish dinner is reindeer soup. By the way, Finns do not watch TV while eating. As a rule, instead of a TV there is a fireplace.
The above-mentioned traditions and customs, as well as the national characteristics of the Finnish population, are not all, but only the most basic. In addition, I advise you to familiarize yourself with other useful facts, which tourists should take note about Finland.
