Christmas Eve is full of traditions and the Finns have one of the most beautiful.

Finland is a country of great natural beauty which is highlighted through their interior design, food, sauna and…cemetery lights. Yes, that is right, Finland’s cemeteries turn into twinkling wonderlands on Christmas Eve.

(my hand was shaking a bit…it was cold for a California girl!)

As darkness envelopes Christmas Eve, many (many) Finnish families go to the cemetery where their loved ones are buried to light a candle in remembrance of that person or persons. This creates a sort of glow that warms the cemetery as people walk around to see the different lanterns and candles and get lost in memories. It is a powerful experience, and one you shouldn’t miss if you have the chance to visit Finland on Christmas Eve.

With the holiday only days away, I wish you all the peace, joy, and hope it represents.