President Alexander Stubb and Suzanne Innes-Stubb received traditional Christmas greetings at the Presidential Palace on Friday.
Speaking to journalists, the president addressed the recent racism controversy.
"It is, of course, sad that at this time last year Finland faced a racism controversy linked to the Lucia celebration, and now it has happened again," Stubb said. "There is no place for racism in Finnish society. It is unacceptable."
Stubb expressed concern that racism persists in Finland.
"It also causes international reputational damage," he said.
Christmas trees since the 1820s
Among those bringing greetings were students from Helsinki University's forestry faculty, who have traditionally presented the presidential couple with a Christmas tree.
That tradition dates back to the time of President Urho Kekkonen.
"The story goes that one of Finland's first Christmas trees stood in this room. We can't confirm it completely, but the merchant who rented this space did have a Christmas tree here in the 1820s," Stubb said when gifted the tree, which this time came from Raasepori.
As for their own Christmas celebrations, Stubb said they will visit preparations for Hursti's charitable Christmas festivities at the Fair Centre before heading to Kultaranta, which serves as the president's summer residence. On Christmas Eve's eve, they will also attend an event organised by the charitable Ruokakassi group in Turku.
The plan also includes taking part in the annual declaration of Christmas peace in Turku, attending Christmas church services, and enjoying the traditional Christmas sauna.
Cycling may also be on the agenda, according to the president.
