Come and have some fun at Heikin Huvipuisto (Heikki's Fun Park)

Boot-Throwing (saapaanheitto) Competition
January 30, 2010 following the parade on the Hancock Middle School lawn

Finns love to compete. If there isn't a competition going on they invent a new one. One off-beat Finnish competition is Boot Throwing (saapaanheitto), which is harder than it looks. Competitors swing a Finnish Nokia rubber boot, either standing at the line or taking a running start. Whoever throws the boot the furthest, while staying within the designated area, gets the prize.

The competition will be divided into men's and women's divisions. Each competitor gets two attempts. Top finishers will be awarded prizes.

Wife Carrying (Eukonkanto) Competition

Perhaps no Finnish competition has received more media attention than Eukonkanto —The Wife-Carrying contest — which started in Sonkajärvi in 1992. Finns around the world have picked up on this quirky event as an opportunity to mix Finnish endurance — called "sisu" — with good, old-fashioned fun. These days, where Finns gather there's apt to be a Wife-Carrying contest. The competition — Heikinpäivä style — will take on new, interesting dimensions in the middle of January!

History:

The idea of the Wife Carrying Competition, in spite of its humorous aspects, has deep roots in local Sonkajärvi history, at least according to local organizers. In the late 1800's there lived a brigand called Rosvo-Ronkainen, who only accepted in his troop only those men who proved their worth on a challenging track. Also in those days, it was also a common practice to steal women from the neighboring villages.

Rules:

Heikinpäivä organizers haven't revealed the particulars connected to our local celebration during mid-winter conditions, but they guarantee it will be a fun time for all and prizes will be awarded. Local Finnish radio personality Linda Graham (host of Laulun Voima) serves as emcee for all the competitions.

More Fun for All Ages

This year's festival will also include a reindeer encampment, dog sled demonstrations, kicksleds, the vipukelkka (whipsled) and more. Check back soon for additional information.