Mass turnout at Helsinki Christmas aid event leaves many outside

By midday on Christmas Eve, more than 2,200 people had entered the doors of the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, making it the largest Christmas party in the history of Hurstin Apu.

Queues had begun forming hours earlier. By the time the doors closed, hundreds remained outside, including an estimated 100 to 300 people who were denied entry due to fire safety regulations and space limits. Many had hoped for a warm meal, a festive atmosphere, and brief company during what for some is the loneliest day of the year.