nimipäiväkalenteriin

The Finnish name day calendar, known as the nimipäiväkalenteri, is a list of given names associated with specific days of the year. These name days are celebrated in Finland as a traditional occasion, often with as much or more fanfare than birthdays, particularly for children. The Finnish calendar is unique in that it includes both Finnish and Swedish names, reflecting the country's bilingual population.

The calendar is maintained by the University of Helsinki's almanac office. Historically, name days were linked to saints' days, but over time, the Finnish calendar has evolved to include a broader range of popular and traditional Finnish and Swedish given names. The names are not assigned randomly; their inclusion is based on historical usage, popularity, and cultural significance.

The official Finnish name day calendar is updated periodically to reflect changes in naming trends and societal demographics. New names can be added, and sometimes existing names might be moved to different dates. This process ensures the calendar remains relevant and representative of contemporary Finnish society. While the official calendar is updated by the university, unofficial or personal name day lists may also exist. The celebration of name days is a deeply ingrained cultural practice in Finland, often marked by family gatherings, gifts, and well wishes.