Sima is a traditional Finnish lightly fermented lemonade, most commonly enjoyed during Vappu, the Finnish May Day celebration. It combines simple ingredients—water, sugar, honey, lemons, raisins, and yeast—to create a mildly alcoholic, effervescent beverage that's both refreshing and flavorful.
This drink holds cultural significance as a part of Finnish spring festivities, emblematic of the renewal and cheerfulness of the season. Its relatively low alcohol content has made it popular among all ages.
Unlike many commercial lemonades, sima’s light fermentation imparts subtle effervescence and floral nuances from honey that distinguish it from ordinary soft drinks.
I personally enjoy sima as a taste of Finnish hospitality and festive joy—offering a link between simple ingredients and rich tradition in an effervescent sip.