Vappu in Espoo – the Best Tips for Celebrating May Day

May Day is one of Finland’s most joyful celebrations and a sure sign that spring has arrived. It is celebrated annually on May 1 and is both a public holiday and a flag day in Finland. Traditionally a celebration of workers and students, May Day has also become a festival of spring and togetherness, enjoyed through picnics, brunches, and city events.

One of the most well-known May Day traditions is the capping of the Havis Amanda statue in Helsinki, where students place a graduation cap on the statue, and celebrations continue across the city well into the night. In Espoo, May Day is marked by a cheerful spring atmosphere, outdoor activities by the sea, and good food.

Located in Matinkylä, Hotel Matts offers an excellent base for celebrating May Day in Espoo. Close to the sea, scenic outdoor routes, and the metro, which easily connects you to Helsinki’s May Day events.

Kick Off Summer at Freja Rooftop on May Day Eve

Spring and summer begin at Freja Rooftop as the rooftop terrace opens for the season on April 30 (May Day Eve).

Bring your friends and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere above the city rooftops. Freja Rooftop is the perfect place to start your May Day celebrations — raise a glass to spring above Matinkylä!

Stand-Up Comedy Night at Hotel Matts

On May Day Eve, April 30, Hotel Matts will also host a laughter-filled stand-up comedy night featuring Niko Kivelä & friends. The show takes place on the hotel’s first floor and promises an energetic and entertaining evening of great comedy. The stand-up comedy show is in Finnish.

After the show, the evening continues naturally at Freja Rooftop, where the May Day celebrations carry on in the atmospheric rooftop setting.

👉 Buy tickets for the stand-up night

May Day Brunch at Restaurant Freja

Good food is an essential part of May Day! At Restaurant Freja, a festive spring brunch is served on two days:

May 1, 12–3 PM
May 2, 12–3 PM

The brunch combines seasonal flavours with a relaxed yet festive buffet setting. It’s the perfect way to celebrate May Day with friends or family.

👉 View the menu and book your table for May Day brunch

A May Day Walk Along Espoo Waterfront Walkway

A springtime May Day is the perfect opportunity to head outdoors and enjoy the coastal nature. Espoo’s Waterfront Walk offers a beautiful route along the sea, stretching several kilometres along the coastline.

One of the popular stops along the way is Nokkalan Majakka, surrounded by stunning seaside views.

Metro Access to Helsinki’s May Day Events

Hotel Matts’ location in Matinkylä makes it easy to celebrate May Day in Helsinki as well. The Matinkylä metro station is right next to the hotel, offering quick access to the city centre and its famous May Day events.

In Helsinki, May Day is celebrated with:

• Picnics in Kaivopuisto Park
• The Havis Amanda capping ceremony
• City events and outdoor terraces

👉 Explore Helsinki’s May Day events

Stay at Hotel Matts for May Day

If you’re planning to celebrate May Day in Espoo or Helsinki, Hotel Matts offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Matinkylä, surrounded by services and coastal scenery.

Choose from stylish hotel rooms or spacious apartments that combine Scandinavian design with comfort. With the metro close by, getting around is effortless and all May Day events are within easy reach.

Offers at Hotel Matts