After torrential rain yesterday, the sun decided to make an appearance today to mark the arrival of May. I can hardly believe that with the snow only just having melted, the schools will be finishing for the summer holidays in only four weeks time. Not that I'm complaining though.
The May Day bank holiday (vappu in Finnish) is one of the biggest celebrations of the year in Finland. There is a lot of partying on the last day of April and today there were picnics and barbeques all over the country as people welcomed what they consider to be the start of the summer season.
It is also a chance for those who have graduated from the equivalent of sixth form (lukio) to wear the white hats they are presented with at the graduation ceremony.
In Somero, as well as the traditional parties, the day is also marked by the male choir singing in Kiiruu Park at ten in the morning. The choir was conducted by Olli Salomäenpää who was also celebrating his birthday and had the pleasure of being sung to by everyone in the park to mark the occasion.
One thing is for certain in Somero. We may have long winters here (especially this year) - but Somero people know how to make the most of the spring and summer. The town is coming to life again and people are outdoors as much as possible.
Happy May Day, wherever in the world you may be. The summer is almost here!
1 comment:
The summer will come at last as(like?..sorry my english writing) you said! I was SO HAPPY when I saw You,Niko and Luca there sitting and listening the singing... Hope to see You soon! You Jody are the person who I have never met before... with many hugs:Hannele
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