Society - thisisFINLAND

Calculating how much dairy, meat and veggies people in Finland consume

Stats compiled by the Natural Resources Institute Finland give us an estimate of the quantities Finnish people eat of different foods.

Life & society Nature

5 reasons to love Finnish porcini mushrooms

The word porcini means “piglets” in Italian. In English they go by “penny bun” and “king bolete.” These are only a few of the many names people use to refer to this beloved wild mushroom. Here’s why you should love them too.

Arts & culture Music

Quirky ’90s band Ultra Bra stages a stylish comeback at 30

Ultra Bra, one of the most beloved Finnish bands of the 1990s, has released new songs after more than two decades and reunited for shows at Helsinki’s Olympic Stadium and summer festivals.

The happiest country in the world since 2018

Source: The World Happiness Report

Life & society Sports

Frenemies for life: Finland and Sweden’s century-old athletics rivalry continues

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, the Finland–Sweden Athletics International is a one-of-a-kind event celebrated each August. It’s a stage for pride, passion and an age-old rivalry between two close neighbours.

Life & society Nature

Discover the wild herbs growing across Finland

Finland’s forests are full of flavour. Meet the wild herbs hiding in plain sight.

62.2%

of Finns belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church

Source: Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland

Life & society Sports

Fit as a Finn: The story behind Finland’s affinity for exercise

From 19th-century gymnastics clubs to today’s ski trails and cycling paths, fitness has long formed part of Finnish life. But what keeps this nation moving through every season? Let’s find out.

Life & society Wellbeing

How Finland’s Housing First model makes real progress against homelessness

Finland has a plan to eradicate longterm homelessness by 2027. We asked three formerly homeless people to share their favourite things about their homes.

Life & society Lifestyle

An ode to the joys of Finnish summer cottages

From coastal islands to inland forests, our American reporter explores the quiet joy – and hard work – of Finland’s summer-cottage traditions.

200

Members in Finland's Parliament

Life & society Wellbeing

A Finnish nurse aims to revolutionise elderly care

As the global population ages, the challenge of providing compassionate and sustainable care for older people becomes increasingly urgent. In Finland, a nation renowned for innovation in healthcare, a small-town nurse is championing a transformative model of foster care.