Exchange Student’s Guide to Vappu

What?

Vappu is a traditional workers’ festival celebrated on 1 May.  Nowadays, the carnival starts already on 30 April and is mostly enjoyed by the students.

Why?

To celebrate the beginning of Spring, the finish of the school year – or whatever your excuse may be (the Finns never really need a reason for partying)!

Where?

All over the city! Check out Koskipuisto park, Pyynikki beach, Vappu market in Central Square, Särkänniemi adventure park, or any bar or club!

How?

Wear your student overalls and a funny hat or a wig, try munkki (doughnut) and sima (non-alcoholic vappu drink), hang out with 40 000 of your closest friends (the amount of University students in Tampere), have a picnic with a bottle of bubbly, and enjoy the carnival spirit!

If in any doubt see how the Finns do it – you’ll soon get the hang of it!

Text: Emma Roinila 
Photo: The Student Union of the University of Vaasa