Mourning Flag
The mourning flag is the Finnish flag flown at half-mast to express grief and respect for the deceased. The mourning flag is a tangible, visible expression of loss and part of the Finnish half-mast flagging tradition. Lowering the flag to half-mast is a dignified gesture through which the community participates in the family's mourning.
Use of the Flag
The mourning flag is typically lowered to half-mast on the day of death and the day of the funeral. The flag is first raised to the top of the pole and then lowered approximately one-third of the way down, so that the upper edge of the flag is at approximately two-thirds of the pole height. Before taking the flag down, it is always raised back to the top of the pole.
Etiquette and Practices
In Finland, flag practices are regulated by the Flag Act. A private individual may freely fly a mourning flag at their own home. In apartment buildings, the decision to fly the flag is usually made by the property manager or board. The mourning flag is raised in the morning and taken down in the evening — overnight flagging is not recommended for mourning. A mourning flag is particularly common on the day of the blessing ceremony.
National Mourning
By government decision, a national mourning flag day may be declared, during which public buildings and offices fly the mourning flag. Such days have been declared upon the deaths of presidents and significant figures, as well as during national tragedies. National mourning flagging is a communal way to share grief and honour the deceased. The mourning flag is a visible part of the Finnish memorial tradition.
Frequently asked questions
How does a mourning flag differ from half-mast flagging?
The mourning flag refers to the flag itself that has been lowered to half-mast, while half-mast flagging (suruliputus) refers to the entire practice and tradition. Half-mast flagging encompasses the rules about when, where, and how the mourning flag is used.
How is the flag lowered to half-mast?
The flag is first raised to the top of the pole and then lowered approximately one-third of the way down. The flag is at half-mast when its upper edge is at approximately two-thirds of the pole height. The flag is raised back to the top before being taken down.
When is the mourning flag used?
The mourning flag is used on the day of death, the day of the funeral or blessing ceremony, and if necessary during the interim. In public buildings, half-mast flagging may be broader, for example by government decision during a national mourning period.
Related terms
Lowering the flag to half-mast as a sign of death or mourning. In Finland, official flag protocol is followed.
A church funeral ceremony where a priest blesses the deceased. Can be held in a church or chapel.
A gathering after the funeral service where the deceased is remembered. Often held in parish facilities or a restaurant.
The expression of sympathy and condolences on the occasion of a death, verbally, in writing or by other means.
Read also
Funeral etiquette: arriving, condolences, photography, address cards and behaviour. For guests and the family.
Ways and traditions of remembrance: candles, memorial days, obituaries, and digital remembrance. A guide to remembering a loved one.
Religious symbols at funerals: the cross, candle, star, and other symbols in different religions. A guide to the meanings of symbols at funerals.