History of Heikinpäivä
The Bear Rolls Over
In 1999, the Finnish Theme Committee of the City of Hancock (now known as "Copper Country Finns & Friends") created a new Finnish-American celebration – Heikinpäivä. The celebration’s themes are taken from Finnish folk saying associated with the name day for Heikki (St. Henrik's Day, Jan. 19th):
“Heikki heinät jakaa.”
Translated, it means "Heikki divides the hay." It was a time when the farmer took stock of his hay, grains and other commodities, making sure that there was at least half left. Finnish speaking residents of the Copper Country still recall the proverbs their parents and grandparents brought with them from Finland. In particular, the weather proverbs connected with St. Henrik’s Day have been retained in the Hancock area, where huge amounts of winter snow are the norm. “Karhu kylkeänsä kääntää” (The bear rolls onto his other side) and ultimately, “Talven selkä poikki” (winter’s back is broken). The bear – an ancient Finnish and Saame symbol — figures well in the celebration, as do Saame and winter sports themes.
Heikinpäivä organizers keep a watchful eye on the celebration’s uniquely Finnish flavor. Finnish crafts, music, food, films, and games provide something for everyone. Although a City of Hancock event, the Heikinpäivä spirit has spilled into neighboring communities.
There’s something for everyone! Follow the Heikinpäivä Facebook page for updates, and visit the Schedule for annual events!