Vappu is a name day for Saint Walpurga, an abbess in Francia. In the 8th century … Hey! This is no place for a history lesson even if the celebrations of the past in rural Finland included children running around the village wearing cowbells around their necks.
Today, you are likely to see grownups running around town wrapped in streamers with half of their butts showing, but the roots of such beastly behavior derive from the 19th century.
In 2026, the vehicle traffic will be restricted in central Helsinki on April 30 from mid‑afternoon to evening for the capping of the Manta statue.
Private car use, according to a news release by the police, is discouraged on both the May Day Eve and the May Day.
The Havis Amanda statue will be crowned at 18:00, and the event can also be watched on large screens at the Market Square and in the Esplanade Park.
This year the cap, which will be placed on Manta’s head, is completely vegan. Its traditional leather parts have been replaced with fruit-based materials, such as apple peels.
It’s the Student Union of the University of Helsinki’s (HYY) turn to host the graduation ceremony.
Families with small children can follow a livestream at the University of Helsinki’s Think Corner.
Parades and parks
The SAK May Day parade on May 1 will affect traffic from late morning, following the route Siltasaarenkatu – Unioninkatu – Pohjoisesplanadi – Mannerheimintie – Kansalaistori.
The police will be visibly present to support safe celebrations and prevent disturbances.
Photograph: TONY ÖHBERG/FINLAND TODAY
The police remind everyone that knives and fireworks have no place in May Day celebrations.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to check young people’s backpacks before they head out, ensuring they are not carrying dangerous items or alcohol. Fireworks misuse, according to the police, has increased in recent years and has “led to serious incidents.”
Last year, the Kaivopuisto Park was cleared shortly after 22:00 due to rising disturbances, and the police note that it will be cleared before dark again this year for safety reasons.
