May Day is a time for students, politicians and union leaders to commemorate an important fixture in the calendar of the labour movement. It’s also become a time for ordinary folk to gather in what has become a carnival-like atmosphere to welcome the arrival of spring at market square events, outdoor picnics and other informal gatherings. But there are others who just want to know whether or not they can run to the store for a carton of milk or a loaf of bread.
The liberalisation of business hours in Finland at the beginning of 2016 means that many large supermarkets and other retailers will be open for business as usual on Wednesday, or customers may receive service during restricted hours at smaller outlets.
Major food chains run by firms such as the Kesko group, S group and Lidl will serve customers during the holiday. National mail service provider Posti will be open as usual on Tuesday until 6.00pm, but will remain closed until Thursday morning. The most important exception to this rule will be up near the Arctic Circle at Santa’s post office in Rovaniemi, where elves will be working through the holiday from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Customers looking for additional information about opening hours can check the company's website.
May Day revellers planning to stock up on their drinks in anticipation of a liquid celebration would do well to note that state monopoly alcohol retailer Alko will be open for business until 6.00pm on Tuesday, after which doors will next re-open on Thursday morning at 9.00am. Thirsty customers are advised to look up the business hours of local stores on the firm’s website.
Moving around? Check timetables first
Some May Day merrymakers may decide to use public transportation to travel further afield on Wednesday. In such cases, they should consult state rail services provider VR’s online timetables to ensure they avoid any unpleasant surprises in the event of schedule changes.
The same principle applies for holidaymakers relying on the services of the Helsinki public transportation provider HSL and the inter-city coach services firm Matkahuolto.
Others who are thinking of getting behind the wheel in major cities should brace for possible traffic disruptions caused by May Day marches and other public gatherings.