Things To Do
in Haukipudas

Small freshwater fish caught locally and often served breaded with potatoes and a side of lingonberries — commonly found at harbour cafés and local eateries.

Must-Try!

Smoked or freshly caught salmon and creamy fish stews (kalakeitto) are staples at local restaurants and seasonal markets.

A traditional northern dish made from reindeer, usually served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam — available in many local restaurants, especially in winter.

Traditional Finnish baked goods — Karelian pasties (karjalanpiirakat) and dense rye bread are easy to find at bakeries and markets.

Small stalls and vendors at the market sell seasonal berries, mushrooms, smoked fish and home-baked goods — ideal for sampling local produce in summer and autumn.

Seasonal kiosks near the beach and harbour offer quick snacks like fried vendace, fish sandwiches and coffee during the warmer months.

Finns value punctuality and low-key behavior — be on time for appointments and avoid loud or intrusive behavior in public spaces.

Enjoy foraging and hiking responsibly: leave no trace, respect private property, and follow local rules for fires and camping.

Sauna is a Finnish institution — follow local rules (often nude in traditional saunas, separate or mixed depending on facility), shower before entering and avoid cameras or phones in shared saunas.

It’s common to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or some small shops; follow hosts’ cues.

Tipping is not obligatory in Finland; rounding up small amounts or leaving a modest tip for exceptional service is appreciated but uncommon. In restaurants a service charge is not typically added, so tipping remains discretionary.

Card payments (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, and contactless/mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, local solutions) are common. Cash is accepted but increasingly rare; always carry a card or mobile payment method.

Long daylight hours and mild temperatures make summer ideal for swimming, boating and hiking; expect mosquitoes in wetlands and pack insect repellent. Many seasonal cafés and kiosks open; bring a light jacket for cool evenings.

Crisp, colorful foliage and mushroom/berry season — excellent for foraging and photography. Temperatures fall quickly and daylight shortens; pack layers and waterproof gear.

Cold, snowy conditions with limited daylight but excellent winter sports and a chance to see the northern lights on clear nights; dress in warm, layered clothing and be prepared for icy walking surfaces and winter driving.

Snowmelt and thawing rivers create dramatic landscapes and bird migration; early spring can be muddy and cool, while late spring brings rapid greening and longer days.

Ice hockey is very popular across Finland and local rinks and youth teams are common; many locals follow regional clubs and youth leagues.

A quintessential Finnish winter activity with prepared tracks in and around Haukipudas and nearby forests.

Recreational and sport fishing (sea and river) is a major pastime year-round, with local anglers targeting salmon, trout, vendace and other species.

Football and community sports are common in summer; local clubs and fields host matches and training.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available at cafés and restaurants (salads, soups, rye-bread based dishes), but choices can be limited in small local venues — inform staff and they will usually accommodate or suggest alternatives.

Vegan dishes may be less common; larger cafés in Haukipudas and many places in nearby Oulu offer plant-based options. Pack snacks if you have strict requirements.

Gluten-free bread and options are available in supermarkets and many eateries, but always ask staff to confirm cross-contamination procedures.

Staff in Finland are generally helpful — explain allergies clearly (write them down in Finnish if needed) and double-check ingredients for fish, dairy and nuts.