The appreciation for work-life balance fosters leisure activities in Finland. The country’s breathtaking landscapes offer endless possibilities for exploration. Additionally, its vibrant culture embraces a wide array of hobbies and sports. From traditional handicrafts to athletic pursuits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into the diverse range of hobbies and sports that make Finland unique!

Activities 1-8: Sports

In Finland, sports hold a special place in the hearts of both athletes and fans. Due to the weather conditions, winter sports differ from summer sports. Although, there are also many facilities that offer opportunities to engage in winter sports during summer and vice versa. Here’s a closer look at some of the most beloved sport activities enjoyed in Finland:

1. Ice Hockey: Ice hockey isn’t just a sport in Finland—it’s a way of life. From the youngest players in grassroots leagues to seasoned professionals in the Liiga, hockey fosters a sense of community. In addition, it fosters national pride like no other. This pride was particularly evident when Finland won the ice hockey world championships held in Finland in 2022! Ice hockey is not only a pastime for those who play but also for those who watch. Moreover, in Finland, children learn to skate in school. That makes ice hockey a viable option for many.
2. Pesäpallo (Finnish Baseball): Pesäpallo, often referred to as “Finnish baseball,” is a thrilling game that combines elements of baseball and rounders. With its fast-paced action and strategic gameplay, it’s a favorite pastime for players of all ages. Pesäpallo is the national sport of Finland.
3. Cross-Country Skiing: With the snowy landscapes, Finland is a paradise for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Whether gliding through forest trails or competing in national races, Finns embrace skiing as a cherished winter tradition. Outside the winter months, some cities offer inside ski trails as well!
4. Football (Soccer): Despite the cold weather, football enjoys widespread popularity in Finland during the warmer months. The Veikkausliiga showcases top domestic talent, attracting enthusiastic crowds to stadiums across the country. For the first time, Finland qualified to compete in the major competitions, European soccer championships, in 2020. That was a huge thing in Finland.
5. Floorball: Introduced to Finland in the 1980s, floorball quickly captured the nation’s imagination and became a favorite pastime for people of all ages. One of the key factors driving the success of floorball in Finland is the strong grassroots movement supporting the sport. Youth leagues and amateur clubs provide opportunities for aspiring players to develop their skills and passion for the game. Additionally, Finland boasts a competitive national league, showcasing top-tier talent and attracting enthusiastic fans to matches. The Finnish national floorball team has achieved remarkable success on the international stage, winning numerous medals in World Championships and European Championships.
6. Basketball: Finnish basketball has seen a surge in popularity, fueled by the success of homegrown talent Lauri Markkanen in professional leagues around the globe. The Finnish Basketball Association promotes the sport’s growth at all levels, inspiring the next generation of players.
7. Gymnastics: Gymnastics clubs across Finland offer opportunities for individuals of all ages to develop strength, flexibility, and artistic expression. Whether practicing artistic routines or mastering rhythmic gymnastics, participants find joy in pushing their physical limits. Finland has won the world championship in aesthetic group gymnastics many times.
8. Athletics: Finland boasts a strong tradition of excellence in track and field athletics. From distance running to javelin throwing, Finnish athletes have excelled on the international stage. They have been earning medals and accolades for their achievements.

The Most Popular Sport Activities in Finland

• Ice Hockey
• Football (Soccer)
• Floorball
• Athletics
• Basketball
• Pesäpallo (Finnish Baseball)
• Gymnastics
• Orienting
• Volleyball
• Golf

9: Handcrafts

In addition to sports, there are also other kinds of popular activities in Finland. For example, there are different handcrafts to explore. Age-old techniques in knitting and woodworking are some options to mention. There is a great variety of workshops to provide opportunities to learn from skilled artisans. In addition, different courses are great for learning to create artistic pieces. There are art schools available for children as well as for adults.

10: Scouting

Connect with nature, develop leadership skills, and make lifelong friends through scouting activities. The Scouts of Finland offer a wide range of outdoor adventures. For example, camping, hiking, orienteering and wilderness survival are popular options for scouts of different ages. Scouting also fosters sense of community, and it could be a great way to get to know Finnish people.

11: Music

From traditional folk tunes to contemporary compositions, music plays a central role in Finnish cultural identity. Whether learning to play traditional instruments or joining community orchestras, music hobbies offer avenues for self-expression and artistic exploration. One genre for which Finland is particularly renowned is metal. Finnish metal bands have achieved international acclaim for their unique sound and innovative approach to the genre. Bands like Nightwish, Children of Bodom, and HIM have amassed devoted fanbases worldwide. Nightwish, in particular, with their symphonic metal style and captivating performances, has become one of the most successful Finnish bands internationally. Beyond metal, Finland boasts a thriving indie and alternative music scene. Artists like The Rasmus and Sunrise Avenue have achieved success with their catchy melodies and introspective lyrics, earning them fans across Europe and beyond.

12: Fishing

Fishing in Finland isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about connecting with nature and embracing the slow pace of life. Experience the thrill of ice fishing in winter or cast your line in tranquil waters during the summer months. Fish dishes are very traditional in Finland, so make sure to catch a fish to have something to eat!

Exploring Leisure Activities in Finland Without Breaking the Bank

In Finland, pursuing hobbies doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for the affluent. With a strong emphasis on accessibility and community engagement, leisure activities in Finland are designed to be affordable and inclusive for everyone. Across Finland, sports clubs and centers play a pivotal role in providing affordable access to a wide range of athletic pursuits. Whether you’re interest is in ice hockey, football, or gymnastics, these organizations offer membership options and classes at reasonable rates. From introductory lessons for beginners to advanced training for seasoned athletes, there’s something for everyone regardless of skill level or budget.

For those interested in exploring traditional handicrafts or diving into the world of music, adult education centers offer a plethora of affordable courses and workshops. These centers, scattered throughout Finland’s cities and towns, provide opportunities to learn from skilled instructors and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Whether you want to master the art of knitting or honing your musical skills, these courses are designed to be accessible to all, with fees that won’t break the bank.

Participating in scouting activities is not only a great way to connect with nature and develop leadership skills but also an affordable option for families. Scouting organizations like the Scouts and Guides of Finland offer membership fees that are accessible to families of varying income levels. Additionally, many scouting events and activities are either low-cost or free, ensuring that financial constraints don’t hinder participation.

For fishing enthusiasts, obtaining a fishing license in Finland is both affordable and straightforward. These licenses, which can be purchased online or from local authorities, typically come at reasonable prices and are available for various durations, ranging from a day to a full year. With abundant lakes, rivers, and coastal areas to explore, fishing in Finland offers a budget-friendly way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

Overall, the affordability of hobbies in Finland reflects the country’s commitment to promoting well-being and community engagement for all its residents. Whether you’re interested in sports, handicrafts, scouting, or fishing, there are options available that cater to different budgets and preferences. So, don’t let financial concerns hold you back—embrace the opportunity to pursue your passions and connect with others in the vibrant Finnish leisure scene. Whether it’s the thrill of competitive sports or the tranquility of leisurely pastimes that drawns to you, Finland offers something for everyone. So, when you’re in Finland, boredom is never an option! Which hobbies and activities would you like to try in Finland?

If you would like to start your own Silk Road Journey, sign up to our program for healthcare workers from the button below!