sitsejä

Sitsejä are a traditional Finnish academic feast, often involving song, food, and drink. They are a common social event in student life, particularly in universities and universities of applied sciences. The term "sitsejä" itself is a portmanteau derived from the Swedish word "sittning" (sitting) and the Finnish word "itsenäisyys" (independence), though its origins are primarily rooted in the concept of a seated dinner.

The typical sitsejä involves a multi-course meal, often accompanied by alcoholic beverages. Throughout the meal, participants engage in singing traditional student songs, known as "laulut". These songs are usually found in a songbook and cover a wide range of themes, from humorous to patriotic. A toastmaster, or "puheenjohtaja," typically leads the event, guiding the proceedings, introducing songs, and often delivering speeches or toasts.

A key element of sitsejä is the custom of "puheet" (speeches) and "haalarimerkit" (overall badges). Participants may give short speeches, often humorous, and may be awarded or "awarded" badges for their overalls, which are a common attire at these events. The atmosphere is generally convivial and informal, emphasizing camaraderie and shared experience. Sitsejä can range from small gatherings to large, formal events. They serve as an important cultural tradition for fostering a sense of community among students.