Virsbo is called 'Little Finland' – the Finnish identity is seen everywhere
Virsbo, a locality in Sweden, has the highest percentage of residents with Finnish background outside of Norrbotten, highlighting its unique cultural identity as it prepares for the celebration of Sweden-Finns Day.
Virsbo, located in Surahammars municipality, is recognized as the place in Sweden with the largest share of individuals with Finnish heritage, aside from areas in Norrbotten. This locality is part of a Finnish administrative area within Västmanland, emphasizing its significant Finnish influence. As Virsbo prepares for Sweden-Finns Day, this Finnish identity becomes even more pronounced, with local businesses stocking up on Finnish products to meet the demand of residents and visitors eager to celebrate their heritage.
The preparations for the celebration have been extensive, as local businesses, such as Ica, have increased their offerings of Finnish goods. Tomas Fridh from the grocery store noted that many community members are excited about the upcoming event. A significant aspect of community life for many residents, including Kirsti Rönnberg, who moved to Virsbo from Finland, is the Finnish language and culture that permeate daily interactions, making them feel at home. The store serves as a social hub where people can converse in Finnish, strengthening community ties.
Statistically, there are 733,146 people in Sweden with Finnish backgrounds, accounting for 6.9% of the nation's population. This demographic vitalizes not just Virsbo but also other areas across Sweden, contributing to the rich tapestry of Swedish culture. The strong sense of identity among these Finnish communities reflects a broader narrative of migration and integration, making places like Virsbo culturally distinct yet an integral part of Sweden.