Kekri: Finland's Ancient Harvest Festival Reborn

For centuries, Finns celebrated Kekri, an autumn harvest festival that marked the end of the agricultural year. Deeply rooted in Finnish pagan traditions, Kekri was more than just a feast - it was a time of transition, marking both the end of the harvest and the beginning of the darker winter months. Today, though not as widely recognised as modern holidays, Kekri has seen a resurgence in Finland, as people reconnect with their folk traditions.

Image: Viaporin Kekri

The Origins of Kekri

Kekri originated as a celebration of the end of the harvest season, held between late September and early November, depending on when the harvest was completed. For agrarian societies, it was the end of the working year, a time to thank the earth and the ancestors for the bounty they provided. Early versions of Kekri did not fall on a specific date but instead coincided with local farming calendars.

It was also a time when ancestral spirits were believed to return to their homes, and special feasts were held in their honour. Food and drink were left out for the spirits, and saunas were heated to welcome them, creating a connection between the living and the dead. Over time, with the spread of Christianity, many of these customs were absorbed into Finland’s Christmas and All Saints’ Day celebrations​.

One of the more intriguing old Kekri customs involved masked visitors, known as kekritärs or kekripukkis, who roamed from house to house demanding food and drink. If not satisfied, they would threaten to break the household’s oven - a serious matter in olden times! This tradition is thought to have influenced the Finnish figure of Joulupukki, the Yule Goat or Santa Claus​.

Image: Sammalsiipi Art

Kekri Today: A Revival of Traditions

While industrialisation caused the popularity of Kekri harvest festival in Finland to wane, recent years have seen a resurgence in interest as Finns reconnect with their folk traditions and seasonal celebrations. Many Finns now see it as a meaningful alternative to Halloween, favouring its deeper cultural roots over the commercial aspects of imported holidays. Across Finland, there is growing interest in celebrating Kekri with bonfires, feasts, and events that blend history and modern life.

For visitors, Kekri offers a chance to step back in time and experience Finland’s rural traditions in a fun, community-focused setting. Public events held across the country showcase Finland’s love of nature, food, and folklore, offering a taste of the past with a modern twist.

Image: Meira

Experience Kekri

If you visit Finland in late October or early November, you might catch one of these revived Kekri events, where you can experience both the ancient and modern aspects of this unique tradition.

One of the major events takes place in Suomenlinna, Helsinki, on 2 November 2024, known as Viaporin Kekri. This celebration features various performances, including light and fire shows, guided tours, and artistic exhibitions. One of the key highlights is the ritual burning of the Kekri goat made of straw. This symbolic act, held on Varvilahti beach, represents a farewell to the troubles of the past year. The evening also offers local food and drink stalls, music, and eerie themed performances that reflect Kekri's deep cultural roots.

Image: Viaporin Kekri

In Strömfors, a historic ironworks village, Kekri will be celebrated also on 2 November 2024. Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere, with local handicrafts, traditional food, a historical iron forging demonstration, and a costume contest. The highlight of the evening is the burning of the "cracker", a nod to the old Kekri bonfire tradition.

These events provide a modern take on the ancient festival, blending light-hearted activities with deep-rooted cultural symbolism. fine by nature offers curated cultural experiences that connect travellers with Finland’s rich traditions, from ancient customs to modern festivities. Let us help you create a unique holiday that blends history, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

From painting by Juho Rissanen