tonttitiedot

Tonttitiedot, also known as "tontti" in Finnish, refers to a traditional Finnish custom of celebrating the arrival of spring with a communal feast. The term "tonttitiedot" translates to "spring announcements" or "spring reports," reflecting the practice of announcing the arrival of spring through various means, such as ringing bells, blowing horns, or firing cannons. This custom is deeply rooted in Finnish culture and is often associated with the celebration of Easter.

The tonttitiedot tradition involves a series of events that take place over several days leading up to Easter. On the first day, known as "tonttijuhla" or "tontti," the first signs of spring are announced. This is typically done by ringing bells or blowing horns at a designated location, such as a church or a public square. The announcement is often accompanied by a festive meal, which may include traditional Finnish dishes such as herring, pickled herring, and rye bread.

The following days, known as "tonttiviikot" or "tontti weeks," are dedicated to various activities and celebrations. These may include parades, games, and other forms of entertainment. The tonttitiedot tradition is an important part of Finnish cultural heritage and is celebrated in many communities across the country. It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy the arrival of spring, marking the end of winter and the beginning of a new season.