Legendary Patron Saint of Finland |
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Celebrations
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St. Urho CelebrationsMany communities with Finnish roots celebrate St. Urho's Day on March 16th, the day prior to St. Patrick's Day.
Finland, Minnesota
- This small community a few miles north of Lake Superior on Minnesota Highway 1 has a weekend of festivities, the highlight of which is the Saturday afternoon parade down the main street... pretty much the only paved road through town, Highway 1. There is also the crowning of Miss Helmi - contestants are all local men in women's clothing - on Friday evening.
Finlayson, Minnesota - A rather small celebration, features a Pancake Breakfast, Volleyball Tournament, Parade and Dance, plus a Medallion Hunt. Menahga, Minnesota - Talent Contest, "Changing of the Guards", a parade, "kolf" tournament, and a Mojakka feed. Starts on Friday evening with the Talent Contest, and goes through Saturday evening.
Madison, Wisconsin - Finnish American Society of Madison.
Hancock, Michigan - Celebration held at Finlandia University (formerly Suomi College).
Butte, Montana - An annual celebration was held in the Helsinki Pub, but once that establishment closed the St. Urho's tradition was taken up at Cinz bar (on East Mercury). Story in Montana Standard, 3/17/04
Hood River, Oregon - Come watch the Changing of the Guards, signifying the season change from winter to spring, as the Knights of St. Urho disrobe and dance the tango with the lovely Iron Maidens to inspiring accordion music! Don't miss the Finnish women's drill team -- such skill with those Black & Deckers with their spinning Finnish Flags! Meet the St. Urho's Queen and her astonishing court. And don't you dare miss Hood River's St. Urho's Day parade founder, Felix, in his 1970's vintage polyester green leisure suit!
Thunder Bay, Ontario - A parade from "Finn Town" down Bay Street. Other Celebrations:
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