Finland

Adoption

Colors

Symbols & elements

Nordic cross

The blue cross on white was adopted in 1918, shortly after independence. Blue stands for the country's thousands of lakes and for the sky, white for the snow that covers the land in winter.

Construction details

Proportions 11:18. A white field bearing a blue Nordic cross whose vertical arm is shifted toward the hoist and whose arms reach the edges. The state version adds the coat of arms (a lion) at the centre of the cross.

Construction sheet

Zoom

Specific rules — Finland

• Flag Day falls at midsummer, around the solstice.
• The state version bears a lion at the centre; the plain flag is the civil one.

Common conventions

• Keep the flag clean and never let it touch the ground.
• Never fly a torn or faded flag — repair or replace it.
• Illuminate the flag if it stays up at night.
• Never use the flag as clothing, packaging or advertising.
• Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, not in the trash.

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