The Finnish Easter tradition of children dressing as witches and exchanging decorated willow twigs is called virpominen.
During virpominen, children may dress as Easter witches and visit neighbors, carrying decorated willow branches. They recite a traditional rhyme and offer the twig as a blessing or wish for health. The household usually gives them chocolate, sweets, or coins in return. The practice is especially associated with Palm Sunday in Finland.
The decorated willow branch reflects a mixture of Christian and older spring customs. Willow is available early in the season and can symbolize new growth. The witch costumes are generally colorful and playful rather than frightening, and the activity is a familiar children’s tradition.
Virpominen can be confused with Swedish Easter customs in which children dress as witches and go door to door. The broader “Easter witch” idea crosses Nordic borders, but virpominen specifically identifies the Finnish blessing exchange involving willow twigs.