juhlimatta

Juhlimatta, also known as "celebration day" in English, is a Finnish tradition that occurs on the last Friday of November. It is a public holiday in Finland, and it marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the winter. The day is celebrated with various activities, including traditional foods, games, and gatherings.

One of the most popular traditions on juhlimatta is the "juhla-illallinen," or celebration dinner. This meal typically includes dishes such as herring, pickled herring, and other seafood, as well as root vegetables like rutabaga and turnips. The meal is often accompanied by a traditional Finnish drink called "glögi," which is a sweet, spiced wine.

Another popular activity on juhlimatta is the "juhla-juoksu," or celebration run. This is a traditional long-distance running event that takes place in many Finnish towns and cities. The run is usually around 10 kilometers and is open to both adults and children.

Juhlimatta is also a time for family gatherings and socializing. Many Finns take the opportunity to visit friends and family, exchange gifts, and enjoy each other's company. The holiday is a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new year, as well as to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

In recent years, juhlimatta has also become a time for environmental awareness and sustainability. Many Finns use the holiday to clean up their neighborhoods, plant trees, and reduce their carbon footprint. This has helped to make juhlimatta a more eco-friendly holiday, while still preserving its traditional roots.