The Karelian Summer Festival
The Karelian Summer Festival is a nationwide major event celebrating Karelian heritage, held every other year. The next Karelian Summer Festival will be held in Oulu on June 13-14, 2026.
The Karelian Summer Festival’s program traditionally includes the Karelian market, panel discussions on Karelian topics, seminars, church services, musical performances, various events, and sports competitions, such as the Karelian marathon and the Kyykkä national championships. The Pie Championship European Championships will be held during the Oulu Summer Festival. The festive parade on Sunday through the city will be a prominent part of the Summer Festival. Representatives of Karelian associations, dressed in traditional costumes, will march, singing and carrying signs and flags. Thousands of people are expected to attend the event over the weekend.
Our impact to Culture-
climate change
The Karelian Summer Festival is part of the living and evolving Karelian cultural heritage. The event preserves traditions while also highlighting the changing nature of the culture. For example, Karelian music, folk dance, and handicrafts are being developed into new, modern forms.
The event is held in different parts of Finland every other year. The Summer Festival also showcases the unique local culture of each host location.
When and where
Organisers
The Karelian League