FESTIVALS AND EVENTS IN HELSINKI

Baltic Herring Fair, Helsinki

Annual Event: October

This annual event is held in  the market square by the port in October at the turn of the season from Summer to Autumn.

First held in 1819, the fair started out of necessity as people would stock up on various kinds of salted, pickled and marinated herring which would be their main source of protein during the long winter ahead.

These days it is possible to buy herring all year round but the festival is somewhat of a traditional favourite among the locals. Not only can you sample the traditional recipes but newer, more exotic options are increasingly present at the fair. Don't forget to try the traditional black bread (dark rye) which will also be on offer. 

You can also buy woollen products such as socks, jumpers and hats made from the sheep living on the islands off the coast. They make great souveniers!

Helsinki Wine Expo

Annual Event: March

A favourite event in Helsinki among locals and visitors alike is the annual Helsinki Wine Expo, held at the Helsinki Expo Centre.  Here you can try various wines from as far and wide as Austria, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Australia. The fair includes trade professionals, importers and wholesalers but is also open to the public.

You'll not only be able to try wine, but also purchase goods for making wine at home, attend lectures on wines, wine making and tasting, and take guided tours of the exhibition.

Helsinki FIM International Horse Show

Annual Event: October

It's the biggest annual equestrian event in Finland and attracts more than 40,000 spectators. Running over four days there are various competitions and parades held including dressage, show jumping and performance riders. There is also an expo with products for horses and their owners on display and available for purchase.

Helsinki Ski Expo:

Annual Event: Oct/Nov

The annual Ski Expo at Helsinki's Expo Centre is the largest of its kind in the Nordic region of Europe. Ski resorts, equipment sales and new technology is on display for downhill, cross-country and snowboarding enthusiasts and professionals. Entry is 13 euros for adults and 9 euros for children.

Helsinki Book Fair

Annual Event: 23rd- 26 October

Book worms will enjoy a visit to this annual event, hosted by the Finnish Antiquarian Booksellers Association and on at the Helsinki Fair Centre.

As well as a trade fair section for importers, exporters and publishers for books as well as magazines there are also readings and signings for Finnish and other invited guest authors.

Helsinki Festival

Annual Event: Aug/Sept

It's the capital's annual arts festivals under the motto "Art is for everyone", celebrating film, theatre, music, dance, performance and visual arts. Various events, concerts and exhibitions are organised at locations across the city.

For the current program, visit the official website:

http://www.helsinginjuhlaviikot.fi/index.php?⟨=en_GB

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