1. Understand the Meaning of Pikkujoulut

Pikkujoulut, also known as "Little Christmas," is a Finnish tradition of celebrating the festive season before the actual Christmas holiday. It is a time for friends, colleagues, and families to gather, enjoy good food and drinks, and engage in various activities.

2. Organize a Pikkujoulut Event

Plan a Pikkujoulut event by inviting friends, colleagues, or family members to celebrate together. Choose a suitable date and venue for the gathering.

3. Decorate the Venue

Create a cozy and festive atmosphere by decorating the venue with traditional Finnish Christmas decorations such as candles, fairy lights, and ornaments. Incorporate red and white-themed decorations, as these colors are symbolic of the Finnish flag.

4. Serve Traditional Finnish Cuisine

Prepare or order traditional Finnish dishes to make the Pikkujoulut experience authentic. Examples of popular Finnish Christmas foods include ham (joulukinkku), salted fish (graavilohi), Karelian pastries (karjalanpiirakka), and gingerbread cookies (piparkakut).

5. Enjoy Drinking Glögi

Glögi, a traditional Finnish mulled wine, is commonly served during Pikkujoulut. You can prepare it using red wine, spices like cinnamon and cloves, sugar, and optionally add a splash of vodka or other spirits. There are also non-alcoholic versions available for those who prefer not to drink alcohol.

6. Exchange Secret Santa Gifts

As part of the Pikkujoulut tradition, consider organizing a Secret Santa gift exchange. Set a budget and have each participant bring a wrapped gift that will be randomly distributed among the group.

7. Engage in Activities and Games

To make the celebration entertaining, organize various activities and games. Some popular options include karaoke, traditional Finnish dances (such as the polka), board games, or even outdoor activities like sledding or ice skating, depending on the season.

8. Sing Finnish Christmas Songs

Encourage everyone to join in singing Finnish Christmas carols or songs. Some famous Finnish Christmas songs include "Joulupukki" and "Joulupuu on rakennettu."

9. Embrace Finnish Sauna Culture

The Finnish sauna tradition is an essential part of Finnish culture. If possible, incorporate a sauna session into your Pikkujoulut celebration. It allows for relaxation, bonding, and a truly Finnish experience.

10. Embrace the Spirit of Togetherness

Pikkujoulut is all about spending quality time with loved ones or colleagues, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere, and embracing the Finnish culture of togetherness. Enjoy the celebration, exchange stories, and make lasting memories.