Finland's flag, flag days and national symbols
Finland's flag has a blue cross on a white background. A flag day may be an official day established by decree or a customary observance. Seeing flags flying does not by itself mean shops are closed or everyone has a day off.
The blue-cross flag and the state flag
The Finnish Flag Act specifies the blue cross and white background. The ordinary national flag and the state flag bearing the coat of arms are different versions. A flag outside a public building may therefore have a detail absent from a private flag.
The current blue-cross flag dates to 1918. The Ministry for Foreign Affairs' thisisFINLAND website describes its history. Blue and white colours on a souvenir do not automatically make it an official flag.
Official and customary flag days
The University of Helsinki Almanac Office distinguishes the two categories. Kalevala Day on 28 February is an official flag day; J. L. Runeberg Day on 5 February is customary. Independence Day is celebrated on 6 December.
Obligations concerning state buildings on official flag days are set by the flag-flying decree. Private people can also fly the flag for a family celebration or to honour visitors. Categories and dates checked on 11 November 2026.
For a visit, check the museum, restaurant or other service's own opening information. A flag-day calendar is not a business-opening calendar.
Symbols from nature
| Symbol | Finnish name | English name |
|---|---|---|
| National animal | Karhu | Brown bear |
| National bird | Laulujoutsen | Whooper swan |
| National flower | Kielo | Lily of the valley |
| National tree | Rauduskoivu | Silver birch |
Source: the Ministry for Foreign Affairs' thisisFINLAND. Checked on 11 November 2026.
Nature emblems are cultural symbols. Their status should not be treated as identical to the legal rules for the flag. Species identification matters too: a whooper swan is not a mute swan, and not every birch is a silver birch.
Finding out why flags are flying
Look at the current almanac and the day's name. Flag flying can mark culture, family occasions, remembrance or another celebration. A flag outside a neighbouring building need not be interpreted without knowing the occasion.
Explore cultural background through Tampere museums. Use the Helsinki restaurant directory when planning a meal during a visit.
Frequently asked questions
It has a blue cross on a white background.
The state flag differs from the ordinary national flag.
No. A flag day and a day off work are different matters.
Yes. The Ministry of the Interior gives family celebrations and honouring visitors as examples.
The whooper swan.
Consult the Almanac Office's current calendar and official guidance.
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