Via Crucis

23 March

As part of the Easter observances, a dramatic procession re-enacting the stages of the cross winds its way through the city and is watched by solemn crowds of thousands before ending in the Senate Square for the late night service.

Helsinki Beer Festival

11 – 12 April

All lovers of the golden brew head to the famous Cable Factory for one of the first major events in the yearly calendar.

Naisten Kymppi

25 May

The ladies of Helsinki come out in full force during the country's biggest all-women sporting event, as over 15,000 runners, joggers, strollers and walkers do their thing over the 10km race course.

Samba Festival

6 August

One of the hottest events of the year, the Samba parade is a riotous showcase of rhythm, colour and movement, as dancers from schools around the country whirl and gyrate their way around the city.

Helsinki Day

12 June

The capital city of Finland celebrates its ancient birth with, among other things, free public events in Senate Square and the other city parks. Many clubs and restaurants also mark the day with special events, so there's plenty to do!

Koniesto: Festival of Electronic Music & Arts

13 – 14 August

Both Finnish and foreign artistes rock the crowd in Scandinavia's largest celebration of electronic music and arts at the Cable Factory.

Helsinki Festival

27 August

Indisputably the biggest cultural event of the year, this festival offers everything from classical to modern music, dance, theatre, cinema and more, regularly drawing a quarter of a million visitors to the city during the month-long celebrations.

Helsinki Marathon

August (tba)

Helsinki becomes a racecourse for this event, as over 6000 huffing, puffing runners spend a few hours of pleasant summer day touring the city in the country's biggest running event.

Herring Fair

October (tba)

Unmistakably Finnish in character, this annual event celebrates the humble herring, staple of the Finnish diet, at its freshest and most delicious. During the fair, thousands of locals descend on the harbour as the fishing boats bring in the latest catch and indulge in one of the biggest smörgåsbords of the year.

International Horse Show

16 – 19 October

The country's largest annual indoor event is popular not only for the excitement of the equestrian events but also for the many cultural showings that run in conjunction with the show. Held in the Hartwall Arena, the event regularly draws about 40,000 visitors.