Authorities in Turku are preparing to open up the annual Christmas Peace Declaration to the public after Covid disrupted the 700-year tradition in 2020.

This would mean that attendees will be allowed to gather in the Old Market Square to observe the ceremony as usual.

However, city officials said that the plan may change if the Covid situation in the region continues to deteriorate.

"All matters related to security are taken into account, but no special arrangements are being made for the time being," said Sari Haavisto, Public Relations Coordinator of the City of Turku.

In 2020, the Old Market Square in Turku was fenced off to keep the public from entering the area. The choir was also smaller than usual. The Christmas Peace was however still declared from the balcony of Brinkkala House, as per the tradition.

According to Mika Akkanen, the protocol manager for the Christmas Peace, last year's declaration was technically no different from previous years. The atmosphere, however, paled in comparison.

"It felt tepid without an audience there. I really hope that this year the Declaration of Christmas Peace can return to normal," Akkanen said, adding that this year's proclamation will be his ninth.

"Time flies," Akkanen remarked. "I feel like I just started this job. I hope that the mayor has confidence in my abilities and that I will be able to continue in this position for years to come."