President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb and his spouse Suzanne Innes-Stubb hosted the Independence Day reception at the Presidential Palace on Saturday 6 December 2025. This year’s celebration highlighted Eastern Finland and recognised education and culture as cornerstones of Finnish society.
The reception was attended by around 1,800 invited guests from across Finland. The first guest to greet President Stubb and Mrs Innes-Stubb was Katri Helena, a renowned Finnish singer and one of the country’s most successful female artists. She brought her nearly 60-year career to a close last August with a sold-out farewell concert at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium. The second guest to greet the presidential couple was Seela Sella, an award-winning Finnish actress who has appeared in film and theatre productions.
Among the guests were also professionals from the education sector, including distinguished teachers from various levels of education. In addition, in line with the second theme of the evening, many guests from Eastern Finland attended the reception.
Drawing inspiration from the regions of South Savo, North Savo, South Karelia and North Karelia, the menu featured traditional dishes that showcased natural ingredients and the craftsmanship of local, small-scale producers.
Throughout the evening, Finnish music filled the Presidential Palace. The presidential couple’s first dance was to Missä muruseni on, performed by Jenni Vartiainen. In the Yellow Room on the second floor, guitarist, composer, and conductor Marzi Nyman with friends played evergreens and jazz. On the third floor, in the Salon, the young artist Mirella, who made her breakthrough in 2023, entertained the guests with her band. Later in the evening, the vibrant Klaara Koivunen joined the Guards Combo as lead vocalist in the State Hall.
In the Gothic Hall of the Presidential Palace, visitors could view a photo exhibition titled School – For Life, curated by the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Finnish Heritage Agency, and basic art education institutions.
The presidential couple’s Independence Day began with the traditional ceremony at Hietaniemi Cemetery, during which President Alexander Stubb laid a wreath at the Heroes’ Cross. The day continued with Finland’s ecumenical Independence Day service at Helsinki Cathedral.
