Month by Month - Finland - page 37

Ruska Hiking
Ruska is the Finnish word for the autumn colours, and there's a mini high season in
Kainuu, Koillismaa and Lapland as hikers take to the trails to enjoy nature's brief, spectac-
ular artistic flourish.
Sibelius Festival
Performances by the famous Lahti Symphony Orchestra, honouring composer Jean Sibeli-
us, in the city's spectacular waterside auditorium ( www.sinfonialahti.fi ) .
October
Snow is already beginning to carpet the north. It's generally a quiet time in
Finland, as locals face the realities of yet another long winter approaching.
Baltic Herring Fair
Traditional outdoor herring market ( www.portofhelsinki.fi ) , held since 1743 in Helsinki in
the first week of October.
November
Once the clocks change in late October, there's no denying the winter.
November's bad for winter sports, as there's little light and not enough
snow. It can be a good month to see the aurora borealis, though.
Aurora-Watching
Whether you are blessed with seeing the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) is largely a mat-
ter of luck, but the further north you are, the better the chances. Dark, cloudless nights, pa-
tience, and a viewing spot away from city lights are other key factors.