iltapala

Iltapala is a Finnish term for a light evening meal or snack eaten late in the day, after the main evening meal. The practice is recognized in Finland and among Finnish-speaking communities as a way to bridge hunger between dinner and bedtime or to accommodate late return home or late activities.

Typical contents and timing vary, but iltapala is usually modest in portions. Common options include bread with cheese or cold cuts, yogurt or milk, fruit, porridge, pastries, or leftovers. It is often enjoyed with coffee, milk, or tea. The exact time can range from around 7 to 10 p.m., depending on family routines, work schedules, and personal preference.

Cultural usage differs by household. Iltapala is not a formal course in restaurants; it is primarily a home practice. Some people include it as a regular daily habit, while others skip it altogether. It is more common in households with children or in situations where people eat late, but it is not universal across Finland.

Etymologically, iltapala combines ilta meaning evening with a suffix or root suggesting a bite or portion, signaling a small, informal meal before sleep. While the term is primarily used in Finnish, related expressions exist in Swedish-speaking contexts and other languages to describe an evening snack or light meal.