Time in Finland facts for kids

Time zones of Europe.

Finland is a country in Northern Europe. Like many places, Finland uses different time settings throughout the year. This helps make the most of the daylight hours. Finland mainly uses something called Eastern European Time (EET) in the winter. In the summer, they switch to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST).

Understanding Time in Finland

Finland's time is based on a system called Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). UTC is like a world clock that helps everyone keep track of time together.

Eastern European Time (EET)

During the colder months, Finland uses Eastern European Time (EET). This time is two hours ahead of UTC. So, if it's 12:00 PM (noon) UTC, it would be 2:00 PM in Finland. This is often written as UTC+02:00.

Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

When summer arrives, Finland changes its clocks to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST). This time is three hours ahead of UTC. So, if it's 12:00 PM UTC, it would be 3:00 PM in Finland. This is written as UTC+03:00.

Why Does Finland Change Time?

Finland has been using a system called daylight saving time (DST) since 1981. The main idea behind DST is to make better use of natural daylight. By moving the clocks forward in spring, evenings have more daylight. This can save energy and give people more time for outdoor activities after school or work.

When Do the Clocks Change?

Finland changes its clocks twice a year.

• In the spring, on the last Sunday in March, clocks move forward one hour. This happens at 3:00 AM EET, so it instantly becomes 4:00 AM EEST.
• In the autumn, on the last Sunday in October, clocks move back one hour. This happens at 4:00 AM EEST, so it instantly becomes 3:00 AM EET.

This way, Finland enjoys brighter evenings in summer and returns to standard time for the darker winter months.