Kekri

Kekri is a traditional Finnish holiday that marks the end of the agricultural year. It is celebrated in late autumn, typically in November. The holiday has its roots in pre-Christian times and was originally a feast for the dead and the ancestors. Today, Kekri is often associated with Halloween due to its timing and similar themes.

History[edit | edit source]

Kekri has been celebrated in Finland for centuries. It was originally a pagan holiday, and its traditions and customs were deeply rooted in the agricultural cycle. The holiday marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the winter period. It was believed that during Kekri, the spirits of the ancestors visited the living, and various rituals were performed to honor them.

With the advent of Christianity in Finland, Kekri began to lose its significance as a religious holiday. However, it continued to be celebrated as a secular event, particularly in rural areas. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Kekri evolved into a community celebration with feasts, dances, and other social activities.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Kekri, and it is now celebrated in various ways across Finland. Some people observe the holiday in a traditional manner, while others incorporate modern elements such as Halloween-style costumes and decorations.

Customs and Traditions[edit | edit source]

Traditional Kekri celebrations involved a variety of customs and rituals. One of the most important was the Kekri feast, which featured foods that were in season, such as root vegetables, game, and fish. The feast was a way to give thanks for the harvest and to prepare for the coming winter.

Another common tradition was the Kekri goat, a figure made of straw that was paraded around the village. The goat was often accompanied by a group of young men who would sing songs and perform pranks. This tradition was believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

In modern Kekri celebrations, many of these traditional customs are still observed. However, new traditions have also emerged, reflecting the influence of other autumn holidays such as Halloween and All Saints' Day.