Culture - thisisFINLAND

Finnish actor Alma Pöysti believes in curiosity, compassion and communication

For the award-winning actor Alma Pöysti, culture is a force to be reckoned with. It helps people understand each other in a polarised world in at least four ways, she says.

Christmas Design

Finnish knit design adds playful elves to festive socks

These cheerful elf-patterned colourwork socks infuse holiday spirit into your every step.

Christmas Christmas traditions

Yes, Santa Claus is from Finland: Ten top facts about Father Christmas

What do you know about Santa Claus? Here are ten fun facts that might surprise you!

Arts & culture Film

Sisu movie sequel: Finnish sisu never goes out of fashion

Sisu is a Finnish word that refers to a combination of resilience and perseverance. Cited as a Finnish source of strength and wellbeing, it’s also the title of a violent action film whose new sequel is enjoying runaway success.

Life & society Wellbeing

Finnish artists bring happiness to seniors in new companion programme

A new cultural initiative in Finland is opening doors to meaningful artistic encounters for seniors.

Christmas Christmas traditions

Finnish Christmas spirit brightens Helsinki streets for holiday season

As the winter days grow shorter in Helsinki, the city bursts into light, and the Christmas season brings warmth, music and thousands of twinkling bulbs.

Arts & culture Art

Staying playful: A Finnish artist combines fatherhood with creative freedom

Everyone’s an artist in Teemu Keisteri’s family, no matter if they’re four or almost 40. Father and son get creative together and explore Finland’s vibrant children’s culture scene.

Life & society Architecture

Lahti, Finland chooses most beautiful building as city celebrates 120th anniversary

Residents of the southern Finnish city of Lahti have selected a 19th-century manor house as their city’s most beautiful building.