Vappu in Finland
Vappu is one of Finland’s most beloved holidays, marking the arrival of spring with bubbles, balloons, and cheerful chaos. It’s a time when parks fill with picnics, streets with laughter, and everyone from students to families joins in to celebrate. Whether you’re enjoying traditional treats, waving a balloon, or soaking up the sea breeze in Oulu, Vappu brings people together in the most joyful way.
Student Caps, Balloons and Bubbles
One of the most visible signs of Vappu is the sea of white student caps (ylioppilaslakki) worn by high school graduates and university students. If you see people proudly wearing these caps in public even decades after graduation that’s the Vappu spirit! In cities like Oulu, student unions organize parades and events starting from April 30th and continuing into the next day.
Colorful balloons, streamers, and funny costumes are part of the fun. You’ll often see people dressed up in overalls representing their student organization or simply wearing something silly just for laughs.
How to join: Head to Oulu city center on the evening of April 30th or early May Day morning. you can buy a colorful Vappu balloon which they are selling in the city center or Torin ranta.
What to Eat During May Day
When in Finland during Vappu (May Day), do as the Finns do. Pack your picnic basket, head to the beach or a park, and enjoy good food with great company! Vappu is the perfect time to try traditional Finnish springtime treats. Here’s a list of what to taste and where to find them:
🥯 Munkki (Finnish Doughnuts): Soft, deep-fried doughnuts coated in sugar. A true Vappu classic! Delicious with a cup of coffee or a glass of sima. Found in bakeries and stores, or made fresh at home.
🍋 Sima (Homemade Lemon Mead): A sweet, bubbly drink made from lemon, brown sugar and raisins. Lightly fermented and very refreshing. You can buy it ready-made or try making it yourself—fun and easy!
🍪 Tippaleipä (Funnel Cake): This crunchy, nest-shaped deep-fried treat is dusted with powdered sugar and only available during Vappu. Looks strange, tastes amazing!
🌭 Grillimakkara (Grilled Sausage): Every Finnish picnic needs sausage! Grill them on an open fire or electric grill, serve with mustard and bread – simple and satisfying.
🍽 Restaurant Nallikari Vappu by the Sea:
If you prefer a sit-down meal or are just looking to treat yourself, head to Restaurant Nallikari, located by the sea in Oulu’s Nallikari area. Enjoy their special Vappu menu, featuring seasonal flavors and festive Finnish dishes with a modern twist.
Stay in Nallikari Holiday Village
Make the most of your Vappu getaway with a stay at Nallikari Holiday Village! For a taste of authentic Finnish holiday life, choose one of the classic Holiday cottages cozy wooden cabins just like those Finns escape to during their summer breaks. Prefer more space and comfort? The modern Poiju Villas offer a stylish stay with all the conveniences of a Finnish home, perfect for families or groups of friends. Located just steps from the beach, Vappu events, and Restaurant Nallikari, it’s the ideal base for a relaxed yet festive May Day experience – with nature, culture, and celebration all within easy reach.
Vappu market
For the full Vappu experience, head to the lively May Day markets at Oulu’s Kauppatori! You’ll find classic treats, colorful balloons, handmade goods, and everything you need for a festive picnic. Street stalls are packed with sweets, snacks, souvenirs, and cheerful energy—perfect for grabbing something tasty and soaking up the spring celebration.
