päivällistä

Päivällistä is the Finnish word for dinner or supper. It refers to the main meal of the day, typically eaten in the late afternoon or early evening. In Finnish culture, päivällistä is often a substantial meal, historically consisting of warm food. The exact composition of a päivällistä can vary widely, depending on regional traditions, family customs, and individual preferences. Common components might include meat or fish, potatoes or other starches, and vegetables. For many, it is a time for family to gather and share their day.

The timing of päivällistä can also be flexible. While traditionally it might have been served earlier in the afternoon, modern lifestyles often see it eaten later, closer to what might be considered evening in other cultures. In some contexts, particularly in older generations or more traditional settings, a lighter meal might be referred to as "illallinen," reserving "päivällistä" for the more significant meal. However, in contemporary usage, the terms are often used interchangeably, with "päivällistä" being the more common and general term for the evening meal. The preparation and consumption of päivällistä remain an important part of daily life in Finland, reflecting both culinary traditions and social practices.