Finnishness Archives

8 questions on the Kalevala, the epic that shaped Finland’s identity

The epic Kalevala relates ancient tales, mainly from the Karelia region, and has become a cornerstone of Finland’s cultural identity. Its poetry has reached readers all over the world, including J.R.R. Tolkien, who took inspiration from it.

Arts & culture Music

Meet Ida Elina, Finland’s modern kantele virtuoso

When a Northern Finnish child picked up a kantele mostly to annoy her sister, no one imagined she would become one of the instrument’s boldest contemporary voices.

Life & society Winter

Finnish winter fun: Zooming across a frozen lake on an ice route

Across Finland, ploughed and marked routes on frozen bodies of water turn winter landscapes into public playgrounds. On Lake Tuusula, the atmosphere resembles a festival.

Life & society Winter

Warm, windproof and Finnish: How Finns dress for the ski tracks

People in Finland love cross-country skiing. But how should you dress for exercising in freezing conditions? We let the skiers share their best advice.

Life & society Society

Helsinki underground: Where the city plays, swims and shelters

Beneath Helsinki’s streets lies a second city that is carefully planned and actively used. From playgrounds to rehearsal rooms, the Finnish capital has turned preparedness into part of everyday urban life.

Christmas Architecture

Finnish festive homes capture readers’ hearts this Christmas

From forest cottages to historic villas, Finnish readers share the festive homes that made them stop and say: “Oh my goodness, how beautiful!”

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.

Christmas Modern Christmas

Find Finnish gifts for everyone on your list this holiday season

Our Christmas gift guide highlights meaningful pieces by Finnish brands: thoughtful, well-made and designed for everyday happiness.

Finnishness