St. Stephen's Day

St. Stephen's Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in the Åland Islands, an autonomous region of Finland. This day, also known as "Tapaninpäivä" in Finnish, is part of the Christmas festivities and is dedicated to Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. Traditionally, it is a time for relaxation and spending time with family and friends after the main Christmas celebrations on December 25th. Many people in the Åland Islands use this day to enjoy outdoor activities, such as horse-drawn sleigh rides or walks in the snow, reflecting the region's strong connection to nature and its serene winter landscapes. The holiday also often includes festive meals and gatherings, continuing the warm and communal spirit of the Christmas season.