Christmas Peace is a traditional Finnish event whereby a town formally announces the beginning of the Christmas season. This practice has its roots in old Swedish legislation and was established by Birger Jarl in the 13th century, building upon the Truce of God tradition. Offenders who committed crimes during the Christmas season were subjected to harsher punishments. The declaration of Christmas Peace is a symbolic and integral part of the Christmas tradition in Finland in the present day. Tradition encourages people to be respectful and peaceful at Christmas.
