The Christmas sauna, or joulusauna, holds a special place in Finnish culture, symbolizing
purity, peace, and renewal. Far more than a simple bath, it is a cherished ritual that brings
families together and marks the transition from the everyday to the sacredness of Christmas.
In Finland, the sauna is a space of physical and spiritual cleansing, and during Christmas, it
takes on even greater significance. Early on Christmas Eve, families clean and prepare the
sauna, often adorning it with candles and fresh linens to create an atmosphere of peace and
warmth.
Entering the sauna on Christmas Eve symbolises leaving behind the worries of the past year,
emerging refreshed and ready to embrace the holiday’s joy and hope. This moment of
reflection and renewal sets the tone for the celebrations to come. A similar ritual is usually
repeated on New Year’s Eve as people prepare for the start of a new year.
The Christmas sauna tradition is steeped in folklore. In Finnish beliefs, the sauna is home
to a spirit called saunatonttu (Christmas gnome). Families show respect by leaving the sauna clean and tidy after
use, sometimes even offering food or drink to ensure good fortune in the coming year.
Traditionally, the sauna was used in the afternoon or early evening, as it was believed that
spirits used the sauna at night. Silence or subdued conversation was often observed to honor
the sacredness of the space, allowing for deep reflection. Some regions even practiced
fortune-telling rituals, interpreting the sound of water on the sauna stones or the steam’s
crackle as omens for the year ahead.
Another reason for having an early sauna on Christmas Eve is that Finns celebrate Christmas
already on 24 th December with a big Christmas dinner after the sauna, while waiting for a
visit from Santa.
The sauna experience is not only symbolic but also deeply communal. Families or groups of
friends come together in its warmth to share stories, laughter, and moments of connection. It
fosters a sense of unity and togetherness that lies at the heart of Christmas celebrations.
As sauna culture grows in Ireland, introducing the Christmas sauna tradition offers a unique
way to embrace the holiday season. Visiting a sauna on Christmas Eve could provide families and groups of friends
an opportunity to relax, reflect, and connect, fostering well-being and creating meaningful
traditions. Another way to celebrate Christmas sauna in Ireland is to combine the sauna
experience with a Christmas Day sea swim that many people have built into their Christmas
traditions.
We as Irish Sauna Association invite you to explore the Christmas sauna and its rich traditions. Whether inspired by
Finnish heritage or simply curious, this ritual offers a moment of peace and togetherness
during the busiest time of year.
This Christmas, let’s celebrate the warmth, peace, and unity that the sauna embodies, making
it a cherished part of Irish holiday traditions.