While we know Valentine’s day as a holiday designed for couples and romance, Finland has another interpretation of the February holiday. Valentine’s Day in Finland is celebrated as Ystävänpäivä, Friend’s Day. Finns decided to include everybody in this day. Friends, family, neighbours, colleagues – and of course the sweethearts too! Many give and receive cards, or small gifts, to let them know they are cared for.

This February, redefine Valentine’s Day in true Finnish style—celebrate the beauty of friendship, share delightful experiences, and create lasting connections with those who bring joy to your life. If you need help planning something special, give us a call us at 778-440-9009.

For those who are on the hunt for unique gift ideas and fun experiences to celebrate Valentine’s, here are a few of our favourites:

Sauna Dates are a Thing!

Spending time together is always a meaningful way to show you care. Book a few hours in the Nordic Circuit to hang out, sweat in the sauna, and test your “sisu” in the cold plunge! RITUAL is a social sauna, so friendly banter is welcome. Plus you can meet in the Après Café afterwards to toast your friendship with Cold Plunge pilsners or prosecco!

 

Private Sauna Date Packages

If you are looking for a more intimate and special experience, check out RITUAL’s private sauna suites. The Cedar Suite (two hour booking) includes a traditional sauna with room for up to four people, a cold soaking tub, and access to indoor lounge and outdoor patio. It’s a great date activity for couples and friends alike! It’s a perfect way to unwind and create lasting memories together.

 

For those who appreciate the benefits of Infrared sauna, try our Birch suite (one hour booking). Perfect for one or two people, with a private shower and access to lounge area and patio. You can also opt for the Combo with a one hour Nordic Circuit add on, or my favourite, a Birch Suite session followed by a relaxing Swedish Massage!

 

Speaking of Massage …

When thinking of gifts of care, massage will always rise to the top of the list. The healing power of touch can work magic towards relaxing the body and mind, providing a sense of calm and peace, and leave the body rested and restored. Massage is a gift that never gets boring, because it is so blissful. It’s a gift I often give to myself and you should too! Massage appointments can be booked online, or purchase a gift card so they can choose their preferred time.

Gift Card or Sauna Pass 

And when you simply want a give a gift of wellness, we have those too. The gift of sauna is even more appreciated during the colder winter months. It’s easy to order a Ritual Nordic Spa gift card or multivisit sauna pass online and deliver by email. If you have more time, drop into the spa for one of our printed cards and pair with some our Nordic inspired gifts like Finnish chocolates, bath + body care, candles, Ritual gear, and more. 

 

Hyvää Ystävänpäivää! Celebrate with us all month long!

*What is SISU? In the heart of Finnish culture lies a concept as robust and resilient as the people themselves—‘sisu.’ Often described as an unyielding determination and courage in the face of adversity, sisu encapsulates the Finnish spirit. This intrinsic quality becomes especially evident in the practice of cold plunges, a popular tradition in Finland. Cold plunges involve immersing oneself in icy waters, tapping into the endurance and tenacity embodied by sisu. Facing the biting cold with a stoic resolve, individuals draw strength from within, embracing discomfort for its invigorating and health benefits. Sisu and cold plunges intertwine as a testament to the Finnish ethos, demonstrating that in the chilliest waters, one can find the warmth of inner strength and resilience.