Lakkauspäivä

Lakkauspäivä is a Finnish term that translates to "cloudberry day" or "bakeapple day." It refers to a specific day, often in late summer, when cloudberries (Rubus chamaemorus), known in Finnish as lakka or suomuurain, are typically ripe for harvesting. Cloudberries are a prized delicacy in Finland and other Nordic countries, often used to make jams, liqueurs, and desserts.

The exact timing of lakkauspäivä can vary depending on the region and the weather conditions of the year. Cloudberries grow in bogs and mires, and their ripening is highly dependent on sunlight and temperature. In many areas, the peak of the cloudberry season falls in July or August. While there isn't an officially designated national "cloudberry day," the term is used informally by berry pickers and enthusiasts to mark the beginning of the most productive picking period.

The harvesting of cloudberries is a significant cultural activity in Finland. Many people look forward to this time of year to venture into the wilderness to gather the golden-orange berries. The berries are delicate and can be difficult to transport, adding to their special status. Conversations about lakkauspäivä often involve discussions about the best picking spots, the expected yield for the season, and plans for preserving the harvested berries. The Finnish word "lakka" itself is also the Finnish word for "stop," which can sometimes lead to lighthearted confusion, implying that on this day, berry picking should cease due to ripeness, though the primary meaning relates to the berry itself.