Each year, summer in Finland is heralded in by the celebration of the capital city’s founding in 1550. Helsinki Day, which over the years has burgeoned into a weeklong outdoor festival, invites travelers from all over the world to engage in picnics, concerts, theatre and street shows.
Since 1959, Helsinki Day has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike because of the wide range of activities offered and the buoyant atmosphere that permeates the city. Visitors can spend the afternoon on a grassy lawn snacking on picnic food and observing lively outdoor performances, or take part in the action by stacking their schedules with activities from exercise excursions, trips out to sea and open houses that feature literature or art.
Wake up with a visit to City Hall, where programs will be held throughout the day. Start out with morning coffee thanks to Helsinki’s mayor and end your evening at the Guards Band’s ball inside the banquet hall.
Last year’s Helsinki Week included the following events:
Pihlajamäki Goes Blues: Kiillepuisto Park transforms into 1960’s nirvana, beating with bluesy rhythms from rock legends around the world. For the kids, there’s a playground, adventure track, and a bouncy castle. Best of all- it’s free!
Guard’s Band Festival: Located in Suomenlinna, a scenic island just off the coast of Helsinki, this two-day military music event takes place in a historical sea fortress and includes ballroom dancing, marches, a children’s play, a sauna, rifle performances, and a picnic concert.
Nordic Juggling Convention: In 2011, Helsinki had the honor of hosting the goofiest of Scandinavian annual events. Visitors enjoyed performances by professional jugglers from around Europe as well as other circus entertainers.
Helsinki Samba Carnaval: 2012 will be the 22nd annual Samba Carnaval, attracting tens of thousands of spectators to watch and participate in an extravagant parade rivaled only by Rio.
Les Lumières Festival: A history buff’s delight, Les Lumières celebrates the legacy of the 18th century Enlightenment. The festival is centered around Scandinavian diplomat and military leader Count Curt von Stedingk and his involvement in America’s fight for independence. On the island of Suomenlinna, you’ll find the music, literature, science and dance of Voltaire, Washington and Rousseau.
Helsinki Day 2012 will take place on Tuesday, June 6th, and information about the week’s events will be available in the spring.