Finland’s May 1 celebration, combining Labor Day and spring traditions, is called Vappu.
Vappu is one of Finland’s most prominent annual festivals. It begins on April 30, when celebrations commonly include student traditions, picnics, street gatherings, and sparkling wine. May 1 is the principal public-holiday day of the celebration.
The festival has several overlapping origins. Its name is related to Saint Walpurga, whose feast day was celebrated in early May, while modern Finnish Vappu also developed strong connections with students, graduation, springtime, and the labor movement.
Vappu is not simply another name for Finland’s Labor Day. Labor organizations hold May 1 marches and events, but the national celebration also includes distinctive student caps, balloons, sima, and other seasonal customs.