While 14 February is exclusively reserved for people in romantic relationships in many other countries, Finland takes a different tack.
Since 1987, the date — known in Finnish as ystävänpäivä (literally "Friend’s Day") — has instead been considered a celebration of friendship and close community.
This means that many people in Finland exchange messages and even gifts with their close friends on 14 February.
In addition, 'ystävänpäivä' events have become increasingly popular in recent years, with groups gathering together for activities such as bowling, downhill sledding or — of course — going to the sauna.
A survey commissioned by the Family Federation of Finland NGO last year found that Finnish people have a total average of 11 friends, with four of that number being 'close friends'.
However, a more recent poll found that a growing number of people in Finland report feelings of loneliness, with younger age groups (16-24 and 25-34) particularly susceptible.
