Heikinpaiva canceled

COVID-19’s fall resurgence is causing Heikinpaiva to be canceled again. Finnish-American Heritage Center Interim Director David Maki says too many of the event’s most cherished activities involve large gatherings or meeting in confined spaces.

Heikinpaiva traces its roots to the tradition of “name days.” January 19th is Heiki’s Day, the equivalent of Henry’s Day using the English language. It marks the midpoint of winter.

While the Finnish Theme Committee felt Heikinpaiva needed to be retired for another year, many other activities continue at the Heritage Center. Beginner language lessons just wrapped up and several art classes are proceeding as normal. The film series is paused until conditions improve.