Police Clear Kaivopuisto of Vappu Celebrators as Litter Piles Up in Helsinki Parks
Police cleared Kaivopuisto of Vappu celebrators on Thursday evening shortly before 11 p.m., citing public order and safety concerns. The decision followed earlier warnings that firing fireworks could result in the park being emptied. Yle reports that thousands of people had gathered in the park earlier in the evening, with the atmosphere described as lively yet calm before 10 p.m.
During the operation, police confiscated a bladed weapon and fireworks from one individual. Additionally, three minors were detained in connection with aggravated assault in the park. Yle journalist Cecilia Heikel noted that the festive mood intensified as evening fell, with techno tents featuring loud sound systems and smoke machines contributing to the celebrations. Police responded immediately to fireworks being set off before 10 p.m.
By early Friday morning, Helsinki’s parks bore the typical signs of Vappu celebrations, with litter scattered across popular gathering spots. Ilta-Sanomat describes a scene of "festive litter chaos" in Sinebrychoff Park, where trash bins overflowed and waste was left strewn on the ground. In Koff Park, the aftermath of overnight celebrations was similarly visible, with debris failing to reach the bins.
Kaivopuisto, however, appeared relatively tidier around 5 a.m., though the effects of the previous night’s festivities were still evident. Some early arrivals had already secured picnic spots, with a few even sleeping in the park to reserve their places. Members of the Teekkari Car Club were spotted preparing a car sauna as early as 2:30 a.m., underscoring the long-standing traditions of the holiday.
