May is properly the spring season in Finland and is a delightful month to travel to the northern European country. While temperatures won’t be very high, the days are long, and the general mood is celebratory. Read on to learn more about traveling to Finland in May.
Finland in May: A Comprehensive Guide
## Weather in Finland during May
While the calendar might declare that spring has officially sprung in Finland starting in March, the reality is that the weather doesn’t truly become consistently pleasant across most of the country until the month of May. Although lingering patches of snow might still be found in some of the more northern regions, the vast majority of the country will have experienced a complete thaw by this time. The average temperature across Finland during the month of May hovers around a comfortable 50°F (10°C), and the rainfall is typically quite low, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Perhaps even more impactful than the temperatures themselves is the sheer abundance of daylight hours that May brings. In the northern reaches of the country, you can witness the celebrated midnight sun phenomenon starting in May. During this period, the sun never truly sets, instead gracefully dipping towards the horizon at night before beginning its ascent once more. This remarkable spectacle continues until July, offering an extended period of daylight for travelers to enjoy. While southern locations, including the vibrant capital city of Helsinki, may not experience quite such extended daylight hours, the sun barely dips below the horizon before making its reappearance.
## Crowds and Costs Associated with May Travel
May represents the shoulder season for tourism in Finland, offering a sweet spot between the peak periods. Winter attracts a steady stream of visitors eager to partake in snow sports in the northern regions, while summer beckons travelers to the south with its warmer temperatures and outdoor activities. May provides an opportunity to avoid the inflated prices that typically accompany the midsummer period, while still allowing you to experience the long daylight hours and generally pleasant weather conditions.
## Destination Ideas: Where to Go in Finland during May
May is an excellent time to explore the capital city, Helsinki. The city comes alive with activities and events following the quiet winter months. Finnish Lakeland is also particularly appealing at this time of year. It’s easily accessible from Helsinki and other southern cities, such as Tampere and Joensuu. The countryside transforms into a vibrant landscape with lush greenery and blooming flowers. Additionally, you’re likely to find more attractive prices on holiday home rentals in May compared to the peak months of June and July.
For those seeking the unforgettable experience of the midnight sun, a journey north to Lapland is a must. The sun remains above the horizon for the majority of the day, and in late May, it practically never sets at all, blessing the land with continuous daylight for a remarkable 70-day stretch between May and July. To delve deeper into the culture and traditions of the indigenous Sami people, a visit to Inari, one of the northernmost towns in Finland, is highly recommended. Here, you’ll find the Sami Parliament and the Cultural Centre Sajos, offering valuable insights into Sami heritage and contemporary life.
## Activities and Experiences: What to Do in Finland during May
Planning a trip to Lapland? Be sure to include a visit to Arctic Sauna World, situated in Muonio alongside the picturesque Lake Jerisjärvi in western Lapland. This unique sauna complex features four distinct saunas, each themed according to one of the four elements: air, fire, earth, and water, providing a truly immersive and rejuvenating experience. While winter swimming is a popular activity here during the colder months, many visitors might find taking a refreshing dip in Lake Jerisjärvi in May more appealing, as the water will be cold but not excessively so.
## Notable Events Taking Place in May
**Vappu (Labour Day), nationwide.** Like many international workers’ days celebrated on May 1st, the Finnish Vappu holiday is a celebration of workers’ rights and contributions. It also coincides with Walpurgis Night, observed on April 31st and May 1st, which commemorates the 8th-century Saint Walpurga. These two festivals are celebrated together throughout Finland with a joyous atmosphere characterized by special foods, picnics, bonfires, and lively street parties in some of the smaller towns and villages.
**Helsinki City Marathon.** Usually scheduled for mid-May, though occasionally moved to the fall, the Helsinki City Marathon is an unmissable event for running enthusiasts and spectators alike. The marathon route winds through the beautiful city of Helsinki, providing a scenic backdrop for the race.
**World Village Festival, Helsinki.** This vibrant festival, held towards the end of May, is dedicated to celebrating multiculturalism in Finland and around the world. The festival features an eclectic mix of music, circus performances, dance, theater productions, and much more, creating a rich and engaging cultural experience for all attendees.
ORIGINAL WORD COUNT: 613
NEW WORD COUNT: 755
B-785