Origin & history
St. Stephen's Day has been celebrated in Finland since the Middle Ages, following the adoption of Christianity. Saint Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early Christian church in Jerusalem, was stoned to death for his faith, making him the first martyr. In Finland, his feast day on December 26 became intertwined with pre-Christian winter solstice traditions, resulting in a unique blend of Christian and folk customs.
According to Finnish tradition, St. Stephen is also the patron saint of horses. This association likely stems from the story of Stephen's vision of Christ's glory, which in folk tradition was linked to the vision of a magnificent horse. As a result, the day became strongly connected to horses and sleigh rides, a tradition that was especially important in rural Finland.
Originally, St. Stephen's Day marked the end of the Christmas fasting period and the beginning of a time for merrymaking and social gatherings. The day was also a significant milestone in the Christmas season, leading up to Epiphany.
Customs & traditions
One of the most enduring traditions is the 'Tapaninajot' (St. Stephen's Day ride), where people would take horse-drawn sleighs through the countryside, visiting friends and family. This custom was a way to celebrate the end of the Christmas peace and enjoy the winter landscape. In modern times, while horse-drawn rides are less common, some rural areas and tourist destinations still organize sleigh rides.
Another hallmark is the 'TapaninpÀivÀn tanssit' (St. Stephen's Day dances), which were the first public dances after the quiet Christmas celebrations. These dances were lively events featuring traditional music and folk dancing. Today, many Finns spend the day relaxing at home, visiting relatives, or engaging in outdoor winter activities like ice skating or skiing. Traditional foods include leftovers from Christmas Eve and Day meals, such as ham, casseroles, and gingerbread cookies.
Additionally, some families attend church services commemorating Saint Stephen. In the past, it was also customary to give presents to children, though this has largely shifted to Christmas Eve.
Why it is celebrated
St. Stephen's Day holds cultural and religious significance in Finland as a continuation of the Christmas celebration. For many, it represents a time to extend the joy of Christmas with social gatherings and outdoor activities. The holiday also preserves historical links to Finland's agrarian past, when horses were vital for transportation and farming.
On a broader level, St. Stephen's Day reminds Finns of the Christian heritage of their country and the story of the first martyr. The day's traditions, especially those involving horses and dancing, reflect a unique fusion of Christian faith with older Finnish customs, emphasizing community, generosity, and the appreciation of winter's beauty.