Xmas Eve today sets mood for Xmas tomorrow

All-out preparations have been made in the country to celebrate Christmas Eve on Thursday and Christmas on Friday amidst the ongoing exceptional situation of coronavirus outbreak.

Although the government recommended avoiding gathering, people will able to celebrate the festival with their family members and dearest ones maintaining the safety measures.

Earlier, the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) urged people to take the necessary precautions and to consider the differing coronavirus situations in different areas when planning trips during Christmas holidays.

Travel can increase the risk of coronavirus infection and the spread of the epidemic. However, it is possible to celebrate Christmas safely at home among a small group of your next of kin, said the THL.

“This year, we should spend Christmas with the people closest to us. Fortunately, we can also keep in touch with the loved ones we may not be able to meet face to face. We can be close to one another even if we are not physically together. Let’s bring joy to one another through small actions: a Christmas greeting, a phone call or an invitation to get together online,” said Prime Minister Sanna Marin in her Christmas greeting to the people.

All government, semi-government and private offices and most of the business centres will remain closed on the occasion.