Helsinki Events
May Day in Helsinki © Rodrigo Quiñones
May Day (Vappu)
Finns know how to have fun, and when they party they do so
seriously. The best party of the year in Helsinki, particularly for
students, is the May Day celebration. Although neighbourhoods
throughout the city celebrate to herald the arrival of spring in
their own way, the main event takes place in Market Square and
along the Esplanade, where crowds gather in the early evening of 30
April (Walpurgis Night) to watch the statue of Havis Amanda adorned
with a white cap. Champagne is sprayed over the mermaid statue,
launching the festivities, which take the form of an exuberant
street party continuing well into the night. For more information
contact the Helsinki City Tourist and Convention Bureau (0)9 169
3757.
Venue: Market Square;
Date: 30 April to 1 May, annually
