Fun Facts About Finland | Things You Didn't Know!

Finland is famous for its nearly 188,000 lakes, vast forests, and a reputation as the happiest country on earth. Experience the midnight sun, northern lights, and traditional saunas, while immersing yourself in rich cultures like the Sami and the beloved Moomins.

We’ve gathered some interesting facts about Finland over time. Check them out below!

Happiest Country in the World: For six years in a row, Finland has topped the World Happiness Report. With a strong emphasis on social equality and well-being, it’s no surprise that Finns are so content.
Land of a Thousand Lakes: With around 188,000 lakes spread across the country, Finland is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike.
Sisu: This untranslatable Finnish word embodies courage, perseverance, and resilience. It’s the core of the Finnish spirit and culture, a quiet strength that helps Finns through tough times.
Finnish Sauna: Sauna is not a luxury but a lifestyle in Finland. With about 2 million saunas for 5.5 million people, visiting the sauna weekly is a cherished tradition.

Reindeer: In enchanting Lapland, there are more reindeer than people. These animals are not only a cultural symbol but also a vital part of the local economy.
Outlets: They use different plugs and outlets than the US, so you do need a plug adapter for Finland.
Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages of Finland. The Finnish language, rich in vowels and unique in its structure, is known as one of the most challenging languages to learn.
Midnight Sun and Northern Lights: Summer in Northern Finland brings the magical midnight sun, while winter reveals the northern lights—a natural light show you won’t soon forget.
Education: The Finnish education system is renowned for its quality and focus on equal opportunities. Its stress-free learning environment allows children to truly flourish.
Forest Cover: A staggering 72% of Finland is covered in forest, making it the most forested country in Europe. These vast wilderness areas offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Santa Claus: According to legend, Santa Claus lives in Finnish Lapland, specifically in the village of Rovaniemi. Here, you can experience the magic of Christmas year-round.
Independence: On December 6, 1917, Finland declared its independence from Russia after a turbulent history under both Swedish and Russian rule.
Winter War: During World War II, Finland held its ground against the Soviet Union in the Winter War (1939-1940), a remarkable achievement that left a significant mark on history.
National Holidays: Finland celebrates its independence on December 6 and the colorful Vappu on May 1, a holiday celebrating both labor and the arrival of spring.
Innovation: Finland is known for its technological advancements, with pioneers like Nokia and a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
Women’s Rights: One of the first countries to grant women the right to vote in 1906, Finland has since placed gender equality at the forefront of its society.
Sparsely Populated: With just 16.5 inhabitants per square kilometer, Finland offers space and tranquility, especially in the southern region where most people live.
Food and Drink: Finnish cuisine surprises with unique dishes like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) and fresh fish, often prepared with local ingredients.

Connection with Nature: Finns have a deep bond with nature, which contributes to their well-being. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenery, nature is always close by.
Moomins: The beloved Moomins are imaginative creatures from children’s literature, created by Finnish author Tove Jansson. They have inspired countless books and a popular TV series.
Birthday Traditions: Finnish kids often celebrate their birthdays with two parties: one for friends and one for family.
Coffee Consumption: Finns are the biggest coffee drinkers in the world, averaging 700 cups per person per year. This is often attributed to the long, dark winters.
Baby Boxes: Since the 1930s, the Finnish government has provided new parents with a baby box containing essential items for newborns, contributing to Finland’s low infant mortality rate.
Right to Roam: Finland has a unique right, the “Everyman’s Right,” which allows people to freely roam nature, pick wild berries and mushrooms, and camp in most outdoor areas.
Rising Land: Due to post-glacial rebound after the last ice age, parts of Finland are still rising. This phenomenon leads to legal questions about newly formed land.
Sami Culture: Finland is home to the Sami, an indigenous group with their own languages and traditions, primarily residing in the northern regions of the country.
Largest Archipelago: Finland has the largest archipelago in the world, consisting of over 80,000 islands.
National Symbols: Finland’s national animal is the brown bear, and its national flower is the lily of the valley.