Laskiainen is a traditional Finnish winter festival celebrated on the Sunday before Lent. The date of Laskiainen varies from year to year, as it is based on the lunar calendar. In 2024, Laskiainen will be celebrated on Sunday, February 11th.
The name ”Laskiainen” comes from the Finnish word ”laskea,” which means ”to descend.” This is because Laskiainen is a time when Finns traditionally indulge in fatty foods and other treats before they start fasting for Lent. The main dishes of Laskiainen are hernekeitto (pea soup) and laskiaispulla (a sweet bun with whipped cream and almond paste).
Other traditional activities of Laskiainen include mäenlasku (sledding), lumilyhtyjen polttaminen (burning of snow lanterns), and ristiäiset (baptisms).
Here are some of the reasons why Laskiainen is such a popular festival in Finland:
- It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy each other’s company.
- It is a chance to indulge in delicious food and drink.
- It is a reminder of the changing seasons and the approach of spring.
- It is a chance to participate in traditional Finnish customs and traditions.
If you are ever in Finland during Laskiainen, be sure to experience this unique and