Finnish graduates celebrate with hopes for health, freedom, and helping others

Finnish high school and vocational school graduates gathered in parks and by the shore in Helsinki on Saturday to mark the end of their studies, with warm spring weather drawing crowds outdoors for traditional year-end celebrations, public broadcaster Yle reports.

In Helsinki’s Alppipuisto park, graduates shared their wishes for the future. Michael Fagerström, 19, said health was his top priority, with plans to balance work and summer relaxation before a break in July. Albert Sallinen, also 19, echoed the sentiment, hoping for good health for himself and loved ones while working through early summer.

Morva Motavali, a graduate of Iranian background, called for freedom for the people of Iran, while Sienna Pollarikoski, celebrating at Hietaniemi beach, said she simply wanted “a good life” ahead, with time for friends and unwinding.

Ida Vanhala, another graduate at the beach, said her goal was to make a positive difference. “Helping others—that’s a real achievement in life,” she told Yle.

The celebrations follow Finnish tradition, with students in formal caps and gowns gathering in public spaces after graduation ceremonies. Temperatures in Helsinki hovered above 20°C in the late afternoon, extending the outdoor festivities.