Opinto-opas
2003
Study guide
2003
Opinto-opas · Laurea – opinto-opas 2003–2004
8 FINLAND IN A NUTSHELL
Study guide · Laurea – Study Guide 2003–2004
8 FINLAND IN A NUTSHELL
Laurea – Study Guide 2003–2004
8 FINLAND IN A NUTSHELL
Historical Survey
Finland and the Finnish national consciousness have been moulded by the country's location between East and West. Although Finns, no doubt, count themselves as part of western culture, the Finnish lifestyle has undeniably been enriched by the proximity to Russia. Finland today has, as it always has had, a special closeness to both Stockholm and St. Petersburg.
From the 13th century Finland was part of the Kingdom of Sweden and Finns fought in many a Swedish army. In 1809, after Sweden had lost the war against Russia, Finland was ceded to Russia and became an Autonomous Grand Duchy within Imperial Russia, its Grand Duke being the Tsar himself. During the 19th century the Finnish national awareness grew stronger.
After the October Revolution in Russia in 1917, Finland declared itself independent. During World War II Finland managed to retain its independence in the Winter War and the Continuation War against Russia. Since the war, Finland has pursued a policy of military unalliance and this created the basis for the present welfare state.
Finland is a democracy in the normal western sense of the word, a parliamentary republic with a multiparty political system. The social structure in Finland is typical Nordic, resembling particularly that of Sweden. The most important recent change in Finland's position in Europe took place in the beginning of 1995, when Finland joined the European Union.
Population and Area
Finland is the sixth largest country in Europe in terms of area - 338,000 sq. kilometres. Finland is also famous for its 188,000 lakes and the 30,000 islands dotting the coastline of 1,100 kilometres.
The population is about 5,2 million. The capital city is Helsinki with a population of 560 000 (in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area the population is around 1 million).
Parliamentary Democracy
Finland is a parliamentary republic with a multiparty political system. Legislative power lies with Parliament, with 200 members elected by direct proportional vote for a term of 4 years. Supreme executive power is exercised by the President, who is elected for a term of 6 years and may serve a maximum of only two consecutive terms, together with the Government, which must enjoy the confidence of Parliament.
Finland is divided into provinces (administered by the State) and municipalities (with local self government). The municipalities levy their own taxes, manage their own economic affairs and maintain public order. One of the provinces, the land Islands (between Finland and Sweden), enjoys a special autonomous status.
Private Ownership and Free Enterprise
Before World War II Finland was predominantly an agricultural country with a rather narrow industrial sector; exports came only from the wood processing industry. The subsequent development into a complex market economy took place very rapidly after World War II. Alongside the wood industry the main manufacturing areas are now the metal industry, chemicals, textiles and construction. The overall structural change of the economy has brought about a dramatic expansion in the service sector: two thirds of the total output is generated in the service sector.
Certain high tech fields, such as computers and communications equipment, have also grown spectacularly. Finland is a world leader in the development of mobile phones and their networks-and Finns are also avid users of these.
Finnish design, too, is well known: classical examples are Marimekko textiles, Iittala glass and Fiskars scissors and more recently, Nokia mobile phones. Finland’s main trading partners are Germany, Sweden, Great Britain, the United States and Russia.
In 2000, Finland's GNP per capita was around 25 500 euros (ca. 22 600 USD).
Foreign Trade by Economic Regions (2000)
Exports
EU and EFTA 60 %
Rest of Europe 14 %
North America 8 %
Asia 10 %
Other countries 8 %
Imports
EU and EFTA 60 %
Rest of Europe 15 %
North America 8 %
Asia 13 %
Other countries 4 %
A Bilingual Country
Finland's special richness lies in bilingualism - both Finnish and Swedish are official languages. Around 6 % of the population speak Swedish as their native language. The Lapps also account for a language minority with some 5,700 Sami speakers. English is currently the most popular language in schools. Along with the compulsory Swedish, other languages widely studied are German, French and Russian. It is possible to take care of most of one's official business in English.
Climate
The climate in Finland is milder than in many other areas of the same latitude, partly because of the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. Clean forests and water are often present in the Finnish landscape, whether rural or urban.
The climate can be harsh in winter, January-February being the coldest months, yet providing all the excitement of winter sports. The spring is long, light and cool. The summer months of June-August are mostly delightful with temperatures between 15-30 degrees centigrade. During the summer it never gets completely dark, and in the north the sun does not set at all for some time. The early autumn can be very beautiful with its burning colours of bright yellow and red.
Visas and Permits
Students from the EU and EEA countries do not need a visa to enter the country. However, students who intend to stay in Finland for more than three months have to apply for a Residence Permit from the local police station. The application for the Residence Permit requires two photographs, a certificate of registration from Laurea Polytechnic and a certificate that the student is capable of supporting him/herself during the stay in Finland. Citizens of the EU and EEA countries do not need a Work Permit. Citizens of the Nordic countries do not need a Residence Permit.
Students from outside the EU need a visa to enter the country. To study in Finland as a degree student, students from outside the EU have to apply for a Residence Permit already in their own country. Also, they have to be able to show that they have either 5000 € on a Finnish bank account or a scholarship/stipend that will cover their living expenses for the academic year; a new deposit is required every year. (for updated information, see www.uvi.fi )
Currency
As of 1 January 2002 the official currency of the country is Euro.
Cost of Living
Since higher education in Finland is funded by the state through the Ministry of Education, students enrolled in regular degree studies pay no tuition fees. Students have to pay their books and other materials, plus their accommodation and living expenses. The cost of living is comparable to the rest of Europe on average. The monthly living expenses of a single student are around 690 €/month.
Occasional expenses are the housing deposit, which will be refunded at the end of the tenancy period. The expense for course books is very low, since most of the course books can be borrowed from the libraries.
NB: There are always unexpected expenses for any international traveller.
Banks and Money Exchange
Banks are open Monday--Friday from 9.00 or 9.15 to 16.00 or 16.15 (Finland uses the 24 hour clock). Office hours may vary regionally. Banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Cash points (Automatic Teller Machines, pikapankki/bankautomat) are open around the clock every day, and there are plenty of them. All banks have branches throughout the country. Bank services can also be available at some post offices.
There are no restrictions on foreign students or trainees opening a bank account in Finland. You will receive a bank card which will give you access to virtually every cash point in the country. Apart from withdrawing cash you can also check your balance and pay bills. If you prefer to pay bills by bank transfer (e.g. for your rent), there is a small charge. When arranging such transfers you may need to show proof of identity. You will normally receive a statement of all your transactions, including cash point use, once a month.
Money can be changed at any bank in Finland as well as at many currency exchange offices in larger cities. It is worth changing large amounts at a time, to avoid service charges. Foreign currency and traveller’s cheques can also be exchanged at some hotels. Some banks have also automatic currency exchange machines.
Money transfers to and from abroad require an extra commission fee that depends on the destination. Having a bank account here is not necessary for receiving money; instead of the bank account number, the number of the recipient’s passport is given.
Credit Cards
The major credit cards (Visa, Euro card, Access, MasterCard, Diner’s Club, American Express) are accepted throughout the country. Automatic cash points accept Visa. The Euro cheque is not as popular as it is elsewhere.
Post offices
Post offices are open Monday--Friday 9.00--18.00 or 20.00. These opening hours may vary depending on the office. Stamped mail (both national and international) can be dropped in the yellow post boxes for collection. Stamps are available at post offices, some book-shops and paper shops, R kiosks, some railway and bus stations, and stamp machines. The Helsinki Poste Restante is at the main post office (Mannerheimintie 11 E, 00100 Helsinki). It is open Mon--Fri 7.00--21.00, Sat 9.00--18.00 and Sun 11.00--21.00. There is also a Poste Restante at the main post office in other towns.
Telephone
Calls can be made from telephone booths, card phones are on
the increase: phone cards are sold by Tele and Finnet shops, post offices, R-kiosks and other sales outlets near card phones. There is usually a card sales service near a card phone.
Area code numbers are listed in the telephone directories. The telephone and fax numbers mentioned in this guide apply when calling from outside Finland. If you call within Finland, leave out the country code (358) and either add the number 0 in front of the area code (when calling to another telecommunication area) or leave out the area code (when calling within the telecommunication area). For instance, +358 3 123 4567 becomes 03 123 4567 in the former case and 123 4567 in the latter.
The code for international calls depends on the telephone company you choose: the alternatives are 00 (common European code), 990 (Tele), 994 (Telivo) and 999 (Finnet). Country Direct calls can also be made in Finland.
NB: As a country with an extremely high penetration in mobile phones, you will find economical solutions in getting and using your own in Finland.
Driving
Licence holders from countries that have joined the Road Traffic Convention (Geneva 1949 or Vienna 1968) may drive in Finland on their national driving licence for one year from the date of entry into the country. After six months you are eligible for a Finnish licence. For more information, contact the local police station.
In Finland we drive on the right and overtake on the left. Main roads are in good condition throughout the year. Headlights are used even during the day. Wearing seatbelts is compulsory, front and back. Special winter tyres are compulsory from November to March. Note that driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly forbidden. There is an exact limit of 0.05% for alcohol in the blood. Infringement of this rule nearly always means a penalty in the form of a fine or imprisonment. 0.12% is the limit for heavy penalties. Petrol sold in Finland is unleaded.
Transportation
You will find a very efficient transportation system in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area. There are four forms of public transportation: buses, local trains, trams and the underground. The same ticket is valid on all four. A single bus/train ticket within the metropolitan region costs 3€ whereas a monthly regional ticket is 61€. Students are entitled to certain reductions. Laurea International Student Tutors will help you in purchasing your ticket in the right place and at the right price.
Electricity
The voltage is 230 AC (50 cycles). Plugs are two pin continental sizes.
Shopping
Most shops are open Monday--Friday from 9.00 or 10.00 to 17.00 or 18.00, and on Saturdays until about 15.00. Some shops (especially grocery shops) and department stores stay open later, till 20.00 or 21.00 on weekdays and 18.00 on Saturdays. In summer, some shops may close an hour earlier and some stay open on Sundays. Small items, sweets, magazines etc. can be bought in kiosks, which stay open later in the evenings. The Helsinki Railway Station has an underground shopping centre open from 10.00 to 22.00, and from 12.00 to 22.00 on Sundays and holidays.
Pubs and Restaurants
There is no shortage of these. Going out for a drink with friends is very popular: the custom is for everyone to pay for himself or herself. Closing times vary: some places close at 01.00, some bars and discos remain open until 04.00. About half an hour before closing they flash the lights for the last call and then stop serving. Serving alcohol is forbidden to minors under 18; if asked, you need to show some proof of your age. Note that the age of 18 is the legal limit; bars and night clubs have the right to set higher age limits for their clients and many do so.
Tipping
Tips are customary only for hotel and restaurant doormen and porters. Prices in restaurants include a service charge; a few extra coins may also be left on the table. Hotel bills include a 15% service charge. Barbers and hairdressers do not expect tips.
Churches
Most Finns (about 86%) are Lutheran; 1% belongs to the Orthodox Church. These are the official religions in Finland, which means that they keep local population registers of their members. There are also Catholic, Jewish and Islamic congregations as well as numerous smaller religious communities.
Healthcare and Insurance
There are public Health Centres (terveyskeskus) and hospitals throughout the country. An appointment is usually expected, although one can see a nurse immediately. In a dental emergency, all foreigners may turn to the Dental Clinic at a Health Centre. In an emergency you are advised to go to the nearest Health Centre or Hospital Emergency Unit.
The general emergency number is 112
You can dial the number from every public phone free of charge.
Health care fees vary locally. Usually Health Centres charge 17€ for the first appointment (within a given year) or, alternatively, 10€ for the first three visits (within a year). After these initial fees, appointments are free of charge.
NB: the students are always advised to inquire about specific health cover regulations (vaccinations etc) concerning their field of study.
Laurea students have the right to accident compensation under Finnish Employment Accidents Insurance Act.
Citizens of the EU and EEA countries are covered by the National Health Insurance Plan administrated by the Social Insurance Institution. Students are advised to bring E111 forms from their home country in order to ensure the additional benefits from National Healthcare Services.
The student is responsible for his/her own accident and property insurance. It is a good idea to take out a Travel Insurance before leaving the home country. Alternatively, you can take out an insurance after your arrival from a Finnish insurance company. For Work Placements the students are covered by Liability Insurance.
Public Holidays
January 1, New Year’s Day
January 6, Epiphany
Good Friday (09.04.2004)
Easter Monday (12.04.2004)
May 1, May Day (vappu/valborg)
Ascension Day (20.05.2004)
Midsummer Day (26.06.2004)
All Saints’ Day (06.11.2004)
December 6, Independence Day
December 25, Christmas Day (joulu/jul)
December 26, Boxing Day
Before some holidays, the preceding eve may also be a free day (e.g. Midsummer Eve and Christmas Eve).
Finland and the Finnish national consciousness have been moulded by the country's location between East and West. Although Finns, no doubt, count themselves as part of western culture, the Finnish lifestyle has undeniably been enriched by the proximity to Russia. Finland today has, as it always has had, a special closeness to both Stockholm and St. Petersburg.
From the 13th century Finland was part of the Kingdom of Sweden and Finns fought in many a Swedish army. In 1809, after Sweden had lost the war against Russia, Finland was ceded to Russia and became an Autonomous Grand Duchy within Imperial Russia, its Grand Duke being the Tsar himself. During the 19th century the Finnish national awareness grew stronger.
After the October Revolution in Russia in 1917, Finland declared itself independent. During World War II Finland managed to retain its independence in the Winter War and the Continuation War against Russia. Since the war, Finland has pursued a policy of military unalliance and this created the basis for the present welfare state.
Finland is a democracy in the normal western sense of the word, a parliamentary republic with a multiparty political system. The social structure in Finland is typical Nordic, resembling particularly that of Sweden. The most important recent change in Finland's position in Europe took place in the beginning of 1995, when Finland joined the European Union.
Population and Area
Finland is the sixth largest country in Europe in terms of area - 338,000 sq. kilometres. Finland is also famous for its 188,000 lakes and the 30,000 islands dotting the coastline of 1,100 kilometres.
The population is about 5,2 million. The capital city is Helsinki with a population of 560 000 (in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area the population is around 1 million).
Parliamentary Democracy
Finland is a parliamentary republic with a multiparty political system. Legislative power lies with Parliament, with 200 members elected by direct proportional vote for a term of 4 years. Supreme executive power is exercised by the President, who is elected for a term of 6 years and may serve a maximum of only two consecutive terms, together with the Government, which must enjoy the confidence of Parliament.
Finland is divided into provinces (administered by the State) and municipalities (with local self government). The municipalities levy their own taxes, manage their own economic affairs and maintain public order. One of the provinces, the land Islands (between Finland and Sweden), enjoys a special autonomous status.
Private Ownership and Free Enterprise
Before World War II Finland was predominantly an agricultural country with a rather narrow industrial sector; exports came only from the wood processing industry. The subsequent development into a complex market economy took place very rapidly after World War II. Alongside the wood industry the main manufacturing areas are now the metal industry, chemicals, textiles and construction. The overall structural change of the economy has brought about a dramatic expansion in the service sector: two thirds of the total output is generated in the service sector.
Certain high tech fields, such as computers and communications equipment, have also grown spectacularly. Finland is a world leader in the development of mobile phones and their networks-and Finns are also avid users of these.
Finnish design, too, is well known: classical examples are Marimekko textiles, Iittala glass and Fiskars scissors and more recently, Nokia mobile phones. Finland’s main trading partners are Germany, Sweden, Great Britain, the United States and Russia.
In 2000, Finland's GNP per capita was around 25 500 euros (ca. 22 600 USD).
Foreign Trade by Economic Regions (2000)
Exports
EU and EFTA 60 %
Rest of Europe 14 %
North America 8 %
Asia 10 %
Other countries 8 %
Imports
EU and EFTA 60 %
Rest of Europe 15 %
North America 8 %
Asia 13 %
Other countries 4 %
A Bilingual Country
Finland's special richness lies in bilingualism - both Finnish and Swedish are official languages. Around 6 % of the population speak Swedish as their native language. The Lapps also account for a language minority with some 5,700 Sami speakers. English is currently the most popular language in schools. Along with the compulsory Swedish, other languages widely studied are German, French and Russian. It is possible to take care of most of one's official business in English.
Climate
The climate in Finland is milder than in many other areas of the same latitude, partly because of the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. Clean forests and water are often present in the Finnish landscape, whether rural or urban.
The climate can be harsh in winter, January-February being the coldest months, yet providing all the excitement of winter sports. The spring is long, light and cool. The summer months of June-August are mostly delightful with temperatures between 15-30 degrees centigrade. During the summer it never gets completely dark, and in the north the sun does not set at all for some time. The early autumn can be very beautiful with its burning colours of bright yellow and red.
Visas and Permits
Students from the EU and EEA countries do not need a visa to enter the country. However, students who intend to stay in Finland for more than three months have to apply for a Residence Permit from the local police station. The application for the Residence Permit requires two photographs, a certificate of registration from Laurea Polytechnic and a certificate that the student is capable of supporting him/herself during the stay in Finland. Citizens of the EU and EEA countries do not need a Work Permit. Citizens of the Nordic countries do not need a Residence Permit.
Students from outside the EU need a visa to enter the country. To study in Finland as a degree student, students from outside the EU have to apply for a Residence Permit already in their own country. Also, they have to be able to show that they have either 5000 € on a Finnish bank account or a scholarship/stipend that will cover their living expenses for the academic year; a new deposit is required every year. (for updated information, see www.uvi.fi )
Currency
As of 1 January 2002 the official currency of the country is Euro.
Cost of Living
Since higher education in Finland is funded by the state through the Ministry of Education, students enrolled in regular degree studies pay no tuition fees. Students have to pay their books and other materials, plus their accommodation and living expenses. The cost of living is comparable to the rest of Europe on average. The monthly living expenses of a single student are around 690 €/month.
Occasional expenses are the housing deposit, which will be refunded at the end of the tenancy period. The expense for course books is very low, since most of the course books can be borrowed from the libraries.
NB: There are always unexpected expenses for any international traveller.
Banks and Money Exchange
Banks are open Monday--Friday from 9.00 or 9.15 to 16.00 or 16.15 (Finland uses the 24 hour clock). Office hours may vary regionally. Banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Cash points (Automatic Teller Machines, pikapankki/bankautomat) are open around the clock every day, and there are plenty of them. All banks have branches throughout the country. Bank services can also be available at some post offices.
There are no restrictions on foreign students or trainees opening a bank account in Finland. You will receive a bank card which will give you access to virtually every cash point in the country. Apart from withdrawing cash you can also check your balance and pay bills. If you prefer to pay bills by bank transfer (e.g. for your rent), there is a small charge. When arranging such transfers you may need to show proof of identity. You will normally receive a statement of all your transactions, including cash point use, once a month.
Money can be changed at any bank in Finland as well as at many currency exchange offices in larger cities. It is worth changing large amounts at a time, to avoid service charges. Foreign currency and traveller’s cheques can also be exchanged at some hotels. Some banks have also automatic currency exchange machines.
Money transfers to and from abroad require an extra commission fee that depends on the destination. Having a bank account here is not necessary for receiving money; instead of the bank account number, the number of the recipient’s passport is given.
Credit Cards
The major credit cards (Visa, Euro card, Access, MasterCard, Diner’s Club, American Express) are accepted throughout the country. Automatic cash points accept Visa. The Euro cheque is not as popular as it is elsewhere.
Post offices
Post offices are open Monday--Friday 9.00--18.00 or 20.00. These opening hours may vary depending on the office. Stamped mail (both national and international) can be dropped in the yellow post boxes for collection. Stamps are available at post offices, some book-shops and paper shops, R kiosks, some railway and bus stations, and stamp machines. The Helsinki Poste Restante is at the main post office (Mannerheimintie 11 E, 00100 Helsinki). It is open Mon--Fri 7.00--21.00, Sat 9.00--18.00 and Sun 11.00--21.00. There is also a Poste Restante at the main post office in other towns.
Telephone
Calls can be made from telephone booths, card phones are on
the increase: phone cards are sold by Tele and Finnet shops, post offices, R-kiosks and other sales outlets near card phones. There is usually a card sales service near a card phone.
Area code numbers are listed in the telephone directories. The telephone and fax numbers mentioned in this guide apply when calling from outside Finland. If you call within Finland, leave out the country code (358) and either add the number 0 in front of the area code (when calling to another telecommunication area) or leave out the area code (when calling within the telecommunication area). For instance, +358 3 123 4567 becomes 03 123 4567 in the former case and 123 4567 in the latter.
The code for international calls depends on the telephone company you choose: the alternatives are 00 (common European code), 990 (Tele), 994 (Telivo) and 999 (Finnet). Country Direct calls can also be made in Finland.
NB: As a country with an extremely high penetration in mobile phones, you will find economical solutions in getting and using your own in Finland.
Driving
Licence holders from countries that have joined the Road Traffic Convention (Geneva 1949 or Vienna 1968) may drive in Finland on their national driving licence for one year from the date of entry into the country. After six months you are eligible for a Finnish licence. For more information, contact the local police station.
In Finland we drive on the right and overtake on the left. Main roads are in good condition throughout the year. Headlights are used even during the day. Wearing seatbelts is compulsory, front and back. Special winter tyres are compulsory from November to March. Note that driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly forbidden. There is an exact limit of 0.05% for alcohol in the blood. Infringement of this rule nearly always means a penalty in the form of a fine or imprisonment. 0.12% is the limit for heavy penalties. Petrol sold in Finland is unleaded.
Transportation
You will find a very efficient transportation system in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area. There are four forms of public transportation: buses, local trains, trams and the underground. The same ticket is valid on all four. A single bus/train ticket within the metropolitan region costs 3€ whereas a monthly regional ticket is 61€. Students are entitled to certain reductions. Laurea International Student Tutors will help you in purchasing your ticket in the right place and at the right price.
Electricity
The voltage is 230 AC (50 cycles). Plugs are two pin continental sizes.
Shopping
Most shops are open Monday--Friday from 9.00 or 10.00 to 17.00 or 18.00, and on Saturdays until about 15.00. Some shops (especially grocery shops) and department stores stay open later, till 20.00 or 21.00 on weekdays and 18.00 on Saturdays. In summer, some shops may close an hour earlier and some stay open on Sundays. Small items, sweets, magazines etc. can be bought in kiosks, which stay open later in the evenings. The Helsinki Railway Station has an underground shopping centre open from 10.00 to 22.00, and from 12.00 to 22.00 on Sundays and holidays.
Pubs and Restaurants
There is no shortage of these. Going out for a drink with friends is very popular: the custom is for everyone to pay for himself or herself. Closing times vary: some places close at 01.00, some bars and discos remain open until 04.00. About half an hour before closing they flash the lights for the last call and then stop serving. Serving alcohol is forbidden to minors under 18; if asked, you need to show some proof of your age. Note that the age of 18 is the legal limit; bars and night clubs have the right to set higher age limits for their clients and many do so.
Tipping
Tips are customary only for hotel and restaurant doormen and porters. Prices in restaurants include a service charge; a few extra coins may also be left on the table. Hotel bills include a 15% service charge. Barbers and hairdressers do not expect tips.
Churches
Most Finns (about 86%) are Lutheran; 1% belongs to the Orthodox Church. These are the official religions in Finland, which means that they keep local population registers of their members. There are also Catholic, Jewish and Islamic congregations as well as numerous smaller religious communities.
Healthcare and Insurance
There are public Health Centres (terveyskeskus) and hospitals throughout the country. An appointment is usually expected, although one can see a nurse immediately. In a dental emergency, all foreigners may turn to the Dental Clinic at a Health Centre. In an emergency you are advised to go to the nearest Health Centre or Hospital Emergency Unit.
The general emergency number is 112
You can dial the number from every public phone free of charge.
Health care fees vary locally. Usually Health Centres charge 17€ for the first appointment (within a given year) or, alternatively, 10€ for the first three visits (within a year). After these initial fees, appointments are free of charge.
NB: the students are always advised to inquire about specific health cover regulations (vaccinations etc) concerning their field of study.
Laurea students have the right to accident compensation under Finnish Employment Accidents Insurance Act.
Citizens of the EU and EEA countries are covered by the National Health Insurance Plan administrated by the Social Insurance Institution. Students are advised to bring E111 forms from their home country in order to ensure the additional benefits from National Healthcare Services.
The student is responsible for his/her own accident and property insurance. It is a good idea to take out a Travel Insurance before leaving the home country. Alternatively, you can take out an insurance after your arrival from a Finnish insurance company. For Work Placements the students are covered by Liability Insurance.
Public Holidays
January 1, New Year’s Day
January 6, Epiphany
Good Friday (09.04.2004)
Easter Monday (12.04.2004)
May 1, May Day (vappu/valborg)
Ascension Day (20.05.2004)
Midsummer Day (26.06.2004)
All Saints’ Day (06.11.2004)
December 6, Independence Day
December 25, Christmas Day (joulu/jul)
December 26, Boxing Day
Before some holidays, the preceding eve may also be a free day (e.g. Midsummer Eve and Christmas Eve).