keruupäivän

Keruupäivän, also known as Keruupäivä or Keruupäiväntaika, is a traditional Finnish holiday celebrated on the last Saturday of February. The name "Keruupäivän" translates to "collection day" in English, referring to the collection of winter's last remnants and the preparation for spring. The holiday is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and is marked by various customs and traditions.

One of the most significant customs associated with Keruupäivän is the collection of winter's last remnants. This includes gathering fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris from the forest and clearing the paths. This activity is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. Additionally, people often clean their homes and gardens, removing any remaining winter clutter and preparing for the arrival of spring.

Keruupäivän is also a time for social gatherings and community events. Many Finns visit friends and family, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional Finnish foods such as blood sausage, pickled herring, and rye bread. The holiday is a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the new beginnings that spring brings.

The holiday is particularly important in rural areas, where the collection of winter's last remnants is a practical necessity. In urban areas, the focus is more on the social and cultural aspects of the holiday. Regardless of the location, Keruupäivän is a time to celebrate the transition from winter to spring and the renewal of nature.