laskiaisen

Laskiainen is a traditional Finnish winter festival celebrated on Shrove Tuesday. Its name derives from the verb "laskea," meaning to descend, referencing the activity of sledding. The celebration is a time for revelry and indulging in rich foods before the austerity of Lent, which traditionally begins on the following day, Ash Wednesday.

The most prominent tradition associated with Laskiainen is sledding. People of all ages gather on hills to slide down on skis, sleds, or any available makeshift vehicle. The longer the sled ride, the better the luck is believed to be for the coming year. Another important custom is eating "laskiaispulla," a sweet bun filled with whipped cream and almond paste or jam. This rich treat is meant to be enjoyed before the fasting period of Lent.

Historically, Laskiainen was also a time for divination, particularly for young women seeking to predict their future husbands. Practices often involved various forms of fortune-telling. While some of these older customs have faded, the core elements of sledding and enjoying laskiaispulla remain central to the modern celebration of Laskiainen in Finland. It is a joyous occasion that marks the transition from winter's depths towards spring.