St. Urho’s Day

St. Urho’s Day is traditionally March 16th, and there are widespread celebrations across northern Minnesota, and indeed, many places with populations of Finnish descent.

St. Urho was an unusual character. As legends have it, the saint chased the grasshoppers out of Finland shouting at them, “Grasshoppers, Grasshoppers, Go to Hell!” But why did he want grasshoppers to disappear from Finland? This was so the wine vineyards could be saved from destruction. He also wanted to save the grapes and the worker’s jobs, all while feeding on only sour milk and fish soup. Thanks to his noble deeds, he became a hero.

Many people claim to know how St. Urho’s Day originated. They say that the originator is a department store owner Richard Mattson in Virginia, Minnesota who along with some friends created the character as a joke. Regardless, Finnish living all over the country will celebrate the saint every year on March 16th as part of their national heritage. To add legitimacy to St. Urho’s Day, Minnesota’s governor in 1975 issued a proclamation recognizing St. Urho’s Day.

What to do on St. Urho’s Day?

• Wear purple

  The color of St. Urho’s Day is purple. Mark the day by dressing up in purple. Wear purple suits and if you want to look minimal, a purple scarf would look lovely. Go the extra mile by dying your hair purple.

• Eat Finnish food

  St. Urho’s Day is a celebration in honor of the Finnish people. Why not celebrate the day by indulging in Finnish cuisine? Have a taste of the famous salmon soup and Finnish rye bread.

• Join the celebrations

  Mark St. Urho’s Day by joining the celebrations. St. Urho’s Day is celebrated with much fervor in Finnish communities. Find out if the Finnish community in your city is celebrating and join in the fun.

St. Urho’s Day