Add organization

    When are the autumn colours (ruska) in Finland?

    When the leaves turn in Lapland, the Lakeland and the south.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    Ruska, the Finnish word for autumn colours, starts first in Lapland, where the dwarf birches turn gold in the last weeks of August. Visit Finland gives the Lapland window as late August to early October. The Lakeland follows around mid-September, and the rest of Finland changes colour mainly in September and October.

    Weather & Seasons

    Why

    1. Visit Finland says ruska typically begins in Lapland in late August with the first dwarf birches turning gold.
    2. According to Visit Finland, ruska arrives in the Lakeland around mid-September.
    3. The Finnish Meteorological Institute says autumn begins in the last week of August in northern Finland.

    Details

    On the fells, the ground plants such as blueberry and bearberry turn red and orange, which gives Lapland its famous colours. Peak colour lasts only a week or two in one place.

    Tip

    Book ruska trips to Lapland early. Visit Finland notes that the crowds are mostly gone by late October, but September is busy at popular fells.

    What may differ

    The exact timing changes from year to year depending on night frosts and rain. An early frost can bring colours sooner.

    Common misconception

    Ruska happens at the same time all over Finland.

    What actually happens

    The colours move from north to south over about six weeks, starting in Lapland in late August.

    People also ask

    • When is the best time for ruska in Lapland?
    • What is ruska?
    • Where to see autumn colours in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Weather varies a lot from year to year, so check the forecast of the Finnish Meteorological Institute before you travel.

    Weather & Seasons
    Help