Discover 20 fun facts about Finland, from its stunning lakes and Northern Lights to quirky traditions like wife carrying competitions and world-class education.
Fun Facts About Finland
Beyond first impressions, Finland has a lot more to offer. It is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, distinct culture, and progressive society. There’s plenty to learn about Finland, including its lively history, world-class education system, and eccentric traditions. We’ll explore some interesting facts about Finland in this post that will both surprise and inspire you to travel to this amazing nation.
Finland is the Land of a Thousand Lakes
188,000 Lakes and Counting
It’s common to refer to Finland as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes.” This nation actually has over **188,000 lakes**! Yes, it has more lakes than practically any other nation on Earth. Large, water-filled depressions were left behind by retreating glaciers during the Ice Age, which is how many of these lakes got their start. Finland’s largest lake, Lake Saimaa, is a sight to behold if you find yourself in the area.
Water Everywhere
Given the abundance of water in the area, it is not surprising that **boating, fishing, and swimming** are among Finns’ favorite pastimes. Locals gather by the lakeside of their cottages in the summer to take in the tranquil surroundings. After taking a lake bath, don’t be shocked if you receive an invitation to a traditional sauna!
Finland is the Home of Santa Claus
Santa’s Official Home – Lapland
For some people, Santa Claus may be a myth, but in Finland, he really exists! **Santa Claus** resides in **Rovaniemi, Lapland**, which is situated above the Arctic Circle, according to Finnish customs. Every year, thousands of visitors go to this northern hamlet to enjoy the magic of Christmas and see the merry guy in red.
Year-Round Christmas Spirit
Finland celebrates Christmas all year round, in contrast to many other places that only do it once a year. You may send a postcard from **Santa Claus Village**, see Santa even in the midst of summer, or take reindeer rides through the beautiful landscapes.
The Midnight Sun Christmas
Consider a Christmas celebration in the **Land of the Midnight Sun**. Lapland has a unique and surreal environment where Christmas enchantment and natural beauty combine since the sun doesn’t set for several months throughout the summer.
The Sauna Capital of the World
Over 3 Million Saunas
Finland’s sauna culture is a way of life, not merely a hobby. In a nation of 5.5 million people, there are **over 3 million saunas** in Finland, making them accessible to practically everyone. Finland’s culture is not complete without saunas, whether they are found in homes, offices, or cottages beside lakes.
A Place for Relaxation and Socialization
Saunas are more than simply steam baths; Finns have been using them for **over 2,000 years**. They are places to **relax, cleanse the body**, and mingle. The classic Finnish sauna experience consists of sitting in the heat and then taking a cool plunge in a lake or rolling around in the snow.
Sauna Etiquette
There are a few things to keep in mind if you are ever invited to a Finnish sauna: **leave your swimsuit behind** (it’s often a naked experience), take your time, and enjoy the stillness or quiet discussion. It’s all about relaxing and getting back in touch with nature.## Finland is One of the Happiest Countries in the World
Happiness Report Toppers
Finland has topped the **World Happiness Report** many times and is routinely ranked among the **happiest countries** in the world. Despite their long, gloomy winters, Finns have discovered happiness in the little things, like equality, family, and the outdoors.
A Strong Social System
The robust **social welfare system** in Finland is one of the reasons people there are so happy. Public funding for childcare, healthcare, and education guarantees that everyone has access to these vital services. This emphasis on justice and equality is very important to their general well-being.
Finland’s Education System is World-Class
No Homework, More Play
Finland is a great place to be a student! The **Finnish educational system** is regarded as one of the greatest in the world. Among the most distinctive features? Compared to most other nations, **Finnish kids have extremely less homework** and shorter school hours. Rather, the focus is on education via creativity and play.
No Standardized Testing
Standardized testing is not a pressure point in Finland. Rather, instructors are trusted to evaluate their students’ development independently. Instead than encouraging a competition for grades, this laid-back, student-centered approach cultivates a love for learning.
Free Education for All
All inhabitants of Finland are entitled to free education, ranging from preschool to university. Yes, you read correctly: tuition is free for university students as well, a testament to the nation’s commitment to equality and education.
Finland is the Birthplace of Nokia
Where Mobile Phones Began
Do you recall **Nokia**? Nokia was the leading mobile phone brand prior to smartphones becoming widely used, and it all began in Finland. In actuality, **Nokia phones** were formerly considered to be the standard for mobile technology, and Finland has made a significant contribution to the tech industry.
The Iconic 3310
Many people rank the Nokia **3310**, which was introduced in 2000, as one of the most recognizable and durable phones ever produced. Many still recall it with fondness for its durability, simplicity, and long battery life. Nokia continues to be a representation of Finnish ingenuity even now.
Finland Loves Coffee
The Coffee Capital of the World
You might be surprised to hear that **Finns are the biggest coffee drinkers** worldwide! A Finnish individual consumes **10 kilograms** of coffee annually on average. That is over twice as much as what is consumed in the majority of other nations.
Coffee Break Culture
In Finland, coffee is more than simply a beverage; it’s a way of life. A treasured habit among Finns is having a **”kahvitauko”** (coffee break). These pauses provide an opportunity to unwind, visit with friends, or simply enjoy some quiet time, whether at work or at home.
The Northern Lights in Finland
Nature’s Light Show
Experiencing the **Northern Lights**, often known as the **Aurora Borealis**, is one of the most breathtaking sights in Finland. In the Arctic, where the sky are illuminated with vivid greens, pinks, and purples, there is a natural light show. **Lapland** in Finland is among the world’s top locations to see this phenomena.
Best Time to See the Lights
The longest nights, which occur between **September and March**, are the ideal times to observe the **Northern Lights**. During these months, a lot of tourists come to Finland solely to see this amazing sky display.
Finland Hosts Quirky Competitions
The Wife Carrying World Championship
Yes, you read it right: the **Wife Carrying World Championship** is held in Finland. Men carry their wives (or partners) through an obstacle course in this peculiar sport; the team that finishes the fastest wins. The award? The wife’s beer weight!
The Air Guitar World Championships
The yearly **Air Guitar World Championships** in Oulu are another distinctive event in Finland. International competitors gather to showcase their best air guitar performances in an attempt to take home the crown.
Finland is Full of Forests
75% of the Country is Forest
Finland has over 75% of its area covered by trees, making it one of the **forest countries** in the world. Finland’s natural environment is very important to the country’s residents, who often spend their weekends hiking, foraging, or just taking in the calm.
Foraging for Berries and Mushrooms
People are frequently seen in Finland’s woodlands foraging for **berries** and **mushrooms**. As long as they respect nature, anybody can freely collect wild berries and mushrooms, even on private territory, thanks to the nation’s **”Everyman’s Right”**.
Finland’s Midnight Sun and Polar Nights
24-Hour Daylight
Prepare yourself for the **Midnight Sun**, when the sun never sets, if you visit Finland during the summer. **24 hours of daylight** are experienced during the summer months in northern Finland, which might be unsettling for those who are not used to it. Conversely, the coming of winter means the **Polar Night**, during which there is no sunrise for weeks.
Adjusting to the Extreme Light
In honor of the **Midnight Sun**, many Finns celebrate by staying up late and savoring the extended sunshine for outdoor events like festivals and barbecues. They make the most of the colder months by slowing down, staying warm, and engaging in winter activities.
Concluding
From its breathtaking natural settings to its distinct culture and customs, Finland is a country full of surprises. Finland is a country that makes an impact, regardless of your interest in its peculiar contests, love of coffee, or renowned educational system. Enjoy the sauna, have a cup of coffee, and maybe even see the Northern Lights if you ever get the chance to come.
