Helsinki will be filled with unforgettable culture, music, and events throughout 2026.
🎭 CULTURE IN HELSINKI
Finnish National Opera and Ballet
The Finnish National Opera and Ballet offers high-quality performances of classical music and dance all year round. The program ranges from grand opera productions to contemporary ballet, featuring international top artists. In early 2026, highlights include the ballet classics Giselle and Don Quixote.
Finnish National Theatre
The Finnish National Theatre is Finland’s oldest Finnish-language professional theatre, presenting a diverse repertoire from classic drama to modern theatre.
Early 2026 highlights include Under the North Star, based on Väinö Linna’s epic novel trilogy about the birth of a nation, and King Lear by William Shakespeare, offering a powerful and timely interpretation of family, power, and responsibility.
Savoy Theatre – Maagikot 5: Variety of Wonders (29–31 January 2026)
Maagikot 5 – Variety of Wonders is Finland’s most popular touring magic and illusion show. The performance combines magic, mentalism, acrobatics, and juggling for the whole family. Suitable for audiences aged 10 and up, the show delivers spectacular entertainment by top professionals.
🛍️ Trade Fairs at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre
- Matka Travel Fair (Matkamessut): 15–18 January
- Motorcycle Show: 30 January – 1 February
- Boat Fair (Vene 26 Båt): 6–15 February
- Spring Fair (Kevätmessut): 26–29 March
- Children’s Fair: 24–26 April
- Food Fair: 24–26 April
- Pet Fair: 25–26 April
PROFESSIONAL TRADE FAIRS
- FFCR Helsinki 2026: 21–22 January
- Educa 2026: 23–24 January
- Gastro Helsinki: 11–12 March
- Sign, Print & Promotion: 11–12 March
- ChemBio Finland: 15–16 April
- Helsinki Chemicals Forum: 15–16 April
- Sähkö – Electricity 26: 15–17 April
- Food 2026: 24–26 April
- FinnBuild 2026: 29 September – 1 October
🎵 Major Concerts at Veikkaus Arena
Veikkaus Arena is located in Central Pasila and is easily accessible from The Folks Hotel Konepaja by tram.
20 & 21 March – ABREU
- Finnish pop star ABREU celebrates her 20-year career with the Carnaval de Abreu show, her biggest production to date.
27 March – Louis Tomlinson
- Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson brings his How Did I Get Here? world tour to Helsinki.
23 May – Käärijä
- Finland’s international sensation performs his biggest show ever, featuring special guests and opening act Joker Out.
6 June – André Rieu
- World-famous violinist André Rieu performs with his 60-member Johann Strauss Orchestra, offering a romantic evening of classical favorites.
16 June – Def Leppard
- Legendary British rock band Def Leppard brings classic hits and high-energy performances to Helsinki, with Extreme as the opening act.
21 October – Joe Bonamassa
- Blues-rock superstar Joe Bonamassa performs songs from his Breakthrough album alongside fan favorites.
🎤 Concerts at Helsinki Ice Hall
18 January – Architects
- Metalcore leaders Architects celebrate their new album with support from Landmvrks and President.
11 April – Haloo Helsinki
- The band’s spring tour combines new music with beloved hits.
18 April – Samuli Putro
- A career-defining concert by one of Finland’s most respected songwriters.
30 September – 3 October – Nylon Beat
- The iconic pop duo celebrates the 30th anniversary of their debut album with four nostalgic arena shows.
4 November – Beth Hart
- Blues-rock powerhouse Beth Hart brings her emotional live performance to Helsinki as part of her European tour.
🎶 Festivals in Helsinki
Helsinki City Festival (12–14 June)
A three-day urban festival combining music, culture, and city life in the heart of Helsinki.
Tuska Festival (26–28 June)
Finland’s largest metal festival gathers top international and Finnish metal acts for an intense live experience.
Flow Festival (14–16 August)
One of Helsinki’s most prestigious festivals, blending music, art, and food in a unique industrial setting.
Other Noteworthy Events
Lux Helsinki (6–11 January):
- An annual light art festival illuminating the city during the darkest days of winter.
Helsinki Design Week (28 August – 6 September):
- The largest design and architecture festival in the Nordics.
Ääniwalli – The Heart of Urban Music Culture
- Located in Vallila, Ääniwalli is an industrial-style club known for excellent sound quality and a diverse program ranging from electronic music to live gigs. In 2026, it is an important part of Helsinki’s nightlife and cultural scene.
Stay at The Folks – Experience with Ease
Experience Helsinki’s events in 2026 from The Folks Hotel Konepaja, a lifestyle hotel with excellent connections to the city’s concert venues, festivals, and cultural attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for music, theatre, festivals, or trade fairs, our central location allows you to enjoy the city without travel stress, so you can focus on relaxing and making the most of your stay.