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Ruska - Time for nature lovers in Finnish autumn

Aleksi

When autumn arrives in Finland, it paints the nature with beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold. This phenomenon, known as ruska, is more than just a change of season it’s a tradition that brings people outdoors to enjoy the beauty of nature. Did you know that it is also a popular name in Finland?

For many Finns, ruska is the perfect time to lace up hiking boots, take out camping equipment from storage and head into the wilderness. National parks in Lapland and across the country become popular destinations, where trails bring you through birch forests and across hills covered in autumn colors. Families, couples, and friends pack thermoses of hot coffee and simple snacks, enjoying the cool air and quiet landscapes.

Culturally, ruska holds a special place in the Finnish calendar. Much like the Japanese celebrate cherry blossoms in spring, Finns savor the ruska season in autumn. It’s short-lived, often just a couple of weeks in the end of September/early October, which makes it feel even more precious. Traditionally, people head north to Lapland for the most vivid colors, and even today train journeys to the Arctic Circle are popular for those chasing the best autumn views.

Ruska also connects with Finland’s deep cabin culture. Many spend this time at their mökki (cottage), a retreat often without modern distractions, where activities like berry and mushroom picking are not only leisure but also a cultural inheritance passed down generations. A basket of berries or mushroom isn’t just food, it’s a symbol of self-sufficiency and closeness to the land. It is a part of our jokamiehenoikeudet (everyman's right). I also have my freezer full of berries for the upcoming winter!

As evenings get dark again, this season also starts the best season to catch the Norhtern lights! This year’s auroras have danced in the sky many times!

What are you doing when ruska comes to your home?

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This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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