ST. THOMAS’ MARKET

The city of Jyväskylä is founded on a market place. Before Christmas, on 17th December, St. Thomas’ market was held. The market gave the peasantry a break from home. In addition to selling their products, they had a chance for some fun. In fact, the market caused some disapproval for being “wicked”.

“Back then, the market still had meaning economically. People from the country came to exchange horses, or to buy and sell merchandise. Women often came along, and brought with them butter, bread, blood sausage, cheese, and other home-made products. With the money they made, they bought clothes and other necessities, market pretzels, rusks or fresh bagels from Ruth’s bakery to take to the people at home, to eat with market coffee.” (Räsänen 1984, Älylästä Tyhmälän torille.)

“The spirit of St.Thomas’ market filled the market place yesterday. It spread across the sales tables in beautiful handicrafts, woven items, toys, colourful Christmas ornaments, and in the green lines of Christmas trees by the hitching post.” (Keskisuomalainen 21.12.1952)