English – Finlandia-talo

Spanish Royal Couple Opens Alvar Aalto Exhibition at Finlandia Hall, Highlighting Aalto’s Influence on Contemporary Spanish Architecture

07.10.2026

Finlandia Hall Once Again Hosted a State Visit as Spanish Royal Couple Opened Exhibition on Alvar Aalto’s Influence

On Wednesday, Finlandia Hall once again served as the venue for a state visit when the King and Queen of Spain opened an exhibition exploring Alvar Aalto’s influence on contemporary Spanish architecture. Together with Finlandia Hall’s permanent exhibition, the new exhibition in the main lobby offers an exceptionally comprehensive insight into Alvar Aalto’s work and its significance across Europe.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain inaugurated the exhibition Alvar Aalto & Contemporary Spanish Architecture at Finlandia Hall on Wednesday. The exhibition examines how successive generations of Spanish architects have adopted and interpreted Aalto’s ideas, as well as his approach to form and space, in their own work.

The royal couple hosted a reception at Finlandia Hall, during which the exhibition was formally opened. Johanna Tolonen, CEO of Finlandia Hall, welcomed the distinguished guests and presented both the exhibition and Finlandia Hall’s permanent Visions of Alvar Aalto exhibition to the royal couple, President Alexander Stubb and Suzanne Innes-Stubb. Together, these two exhibitions provide design and architecture enthusiasts with an exceptionally rich Alvar Aalto experience.

For architect Covadonga Blasco, curator of Alvar Aalto & Contemporary Spanish Architecture, designing an exhibition for one of Aalto’s most iconic buildings has been a unique opportunity.

“My goal was to ensure that the exhibition blends seamlessly with the magnificent surroundings of Finlandia Hall. It offers a new perspective on architecture that is familiar to Finns and perhaps reveals something new about the impact Alvar Aalto has had around the world,” Blasco says.

“Aalto’s legacy is more important than ever in today’s polarized and uncertain world. The Aaltos’ human-centred philosophy and its influence on society, international relations and architecture form an essential part of Finnish and European history. It was a great honour to welcome the Spanish royal couple and the President of Finland and present Finlandia Hall to them, one of the greatest achievements of Alvar Aalto’s career and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We hope that as many people as possible with an interest in design and architecture will come and experience this remarkable exhibition ensemble,” says Tolonen.

The royal visit is the Spanish royal couple’s first visit to Finland. Finlandia Hall had already played a central role in the state visit the day before, when King Felipe VI and President Stubb addressed an audience of Finnish and Spanish companies involved in artificial intelligence development.

Aalto’s Relationship with Nature Fascinated Spain

In 1951, the Association of Architects of Catalonia invited Alvar Aalto to lecture in Madrid and Barcelona. Travelling by train between cities, Aalto sketched the landscapes of inland Spain and became interested in local everyday life and traditional housing. The exhibition presents documentary material from these journeys alongside works by Spanish architects that demonstrate Aalto’s influence. It also highlights projects in Finland designed by Spanish architects.

According to Blasco, Spanish architects have been deeply interested in Aalto and his work from the very beginning.

“I believe Alvar Aalto appealed to them because, in both Finland and Spain, architecture draws inspiration from nature and landscape. Finland has its magnificent forests, and Spain has its beautiful wilderness areas. That is why Aalto’s principles felt familiar, despite the more than 3,000 kilometres between our countries,” Blasco says.

While preparing the exhibition, Blasco also came across an amusing detail from Aalto’s travels.

“People showed him the local landmarks, but they soon noticed that monuments did not interest Aalto. He would turn his back on them and look at the landscape instead,” Blasco explains.

Organised by the Embassy of Finland in Spain and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, the exhibition celebrates the 75th anniversary of Aalto’s visit to Spain and the inclusion this year of thirteen building ensembles designed by Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Finlandia Hall’s permanent exhibition, Visions of Alvar Aalto, explores the life’s work and legacy of Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto. Six themed spaces examine light, forests, networks of collaboration and the Aaltos’ family life. The exhibition also includes a dedicated space designed to inspire visitors’ own creativity.

Exhibition Information

Alvar Aalto & Contemporary Spanish Architecture
7 October 2026 – 10 January 2027
Finlandia Hall
Mannerheimintie 13 e, Helsinki
Free admission

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Experience the best moments of the Christmas season at Finlandia Hall

Christmas, Diandra, Finlandia Cafe&Wine, Finlandia-talo

02.10.2026

The anticipation of Christmas fills Finlandia Hall with music, festive flavors, and memorable experiences. The diverse end-of-year program offers something for every occasion, from Christmas parties and festive lunches to cultural experiences shared with friends, loved ones, or colleagues.

Get into the Christmas spirit at Finlandia Hall with festive concerts, celebrate with stand-up comedy or jazz, gather around the Christmas table, or discover Finnish gift ideas at Design Joulu.

We’ve gathered some of the most exciting events and experiences of the Christmas season at Finlandia Hall!

Christmas Concerts in Finlandia Hall

Diandra & Christmas at Finlandia Hall kicks off the festive season on November 28, with Diandra performing some of the greatest Christmas hits from Finland and around the world. On December 12, Rajaton Joulu brings beloved Christmas classics, masterful arrangements, and new music to Finlandia Hall. Waltteri Torikka takes the stage on December 16, accompanied by a piano quartet led by Marko Hilpo.

The concerts are perfect for a festive evening with friends or a memorable Christmas celebration with colleagues.

Christmas Classic: The Nutcracker December 18–19

Few works are as closely associated with Christmas as The Nutcracker. This year, the beloved classic comes to Finlandia Hall with the British Festival Ballet on December 18 and 19.

The story of Clara, the Nutcracker, the Mouse King, and an enchanted kingdom comes to life on stage to Tchaikovsky’s iconic music. Performed by an international cast, the production combines classical ballet, spectacular staging, and the magic of a Christmas fairy tale. It’s an enchanting experience for seasoned ballet lovers and first-timers alike.

Christmas Party with Jazz, Comedy, or Domestic Music

This year, a Christmas party at Finlandia Hall can be paired with world-class jazz, stand-up comedy, or classics of Finnish music.

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis: Big Band Holidays takes the stage on December 3. The 15-piece orchestra brings the sounds of American holiday jazz to Finlandia Hall, led by nine-time Grammy Award and Pulitzer Prize winner Wynton Marsalis. It’s a stylish alternative to the traditional Christmas party.

Jarkko Tamminen’s Stars Show returns to Finlandia Hall with a revue-style show featuring singing, impressions, and parodies of more than 40 famous stars. The spectacular production is completed by a live band and top dancers.

Turn the Stars Show into a complete Christmas party experience with the Show & Dinner package, which includes a ticket in the best seating category, a three-course buffet dinner before the show, and an opportunity to meet Jarkko before the performance. For a more relaxed option, the Makeaa mahan täydeltä (Sweet Treats) package includes a ticket in the best seating category as well as coffee, tea, and sweet treats during the intermission.

Pepe Willberg 80 – Elämältä kaiken sain (I Got Everything from Life) celebrates the Finnish music legend’s 80th birthday and his remarkable 60-year career. The anniversary concert brings together songs, stories, and powerful emotions from across the decades, accompanied by an orchestra of top musicians..

After the concert, the celebrations continue at Piazza with the Elämältä kaiken sain – After Party, featuring a festive buffet and dancing to nostalgic classics. The evening is topped off with performances by Pepe Willberg and the legendary band The First.

Start the evening with delicacies

It’s worth arriving at Finlandia Hall well before the performance. Piazza, Finlandia Hall’s lobby area, opens an hour before the concerts, giving you plenty of time to start the evening with a drink and a light bite. Finlandia Cafe&Wine also often stays open later than usual on event nights.

Intermission refreshments can be ordered in advance, so they’ll be ready and waiting when the interval begins. If you’d like to make more of your evening together, combine your concert visit with dinner at Finlandia Bistro, where a menu inspired by seasonal flavors sets the mood before the performance.

Beloved Christmas Table of Finlandia Hall

Finlandia Hall’s Christmas table invites colleagues, business partners, friends, and loved ones to gather together from December 10 to 19.

This year, Christmas lunch will be served in the restaurant hall next to Piazza. The menu combines Finnish Christmas traditions with fresh flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Even the glögi has a special story: it is made from apples grown at the world’s northernmost organic fruit farm.

The Christmas table is ideal for a festive lunch with colleagues or a pre-Christmas get-together with friends and loved ones. Check the event page for serving times and further details.

Design Christmas brings domestic design to Finlandia Hall

On the second weekend of December, Finlandia Hall’s Veranda will be filled with Finnish design. Design Joulu brings together more than 80 Finnish designers, offering Christmas gift ideas ranging from art and ceramics to natural cosmetics, clothing, and jewelry.

Alongside shopping, the weekend features workshops, culture, art, and activities for both adults and children. While you’re there, you can also visit the Visions of Alvar Aalto – Finlandia exhibition or stop by Finlandia Cafe&Wine or Finlandia Bistro.

Design Joulu is open on Saturday, December 12, from 12 noon to 6 PM and on Sunday, December 13, from 11 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free.

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Autumn at Finlandia Hall – music, ballet, exhibitions, and experiences

Beth Hart, Dad Harmony, Finlandia Cafe&Wine, Finlandia-talo, Jarkko Tamminen, Joutsenlampi, Visions Of Alvar Aalto, Wardruna

01.10.2026

Autumn at Finlandia Hall includes international stars, classical ballet, comedy and music from the 1920s Berlin atmosphere to blues and Nordic folk music.

Alongside concerts and performances, autumn offers art, Alvar Aalto’s architecture and culinary experiences in Finlandia Hall’s restaurants. Of course, the building itself is a sight worth seeing: designed by Alvar Aalto, Finlandia Hall is one of Helsinki’s most iconic landmarks and part of the Aalto Works ensemble, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Pick your favorites from the autumn program!

October: international stars and the magic of classical ballet

The autumn concert season kicks off spectacularly in October when Max Raabe & Palast Orchester brings their Night and Day tour to Finlandia Hall for two nights on 2–3.10. The German baritone star and legendary orchestra combine the glamour, jazz, and cabaret of 1920s-30s Berlin with sophisticated humor and nostalgia.

10.10. At Finlandia Hall, we will hear the harmonies that rose to global fame from social media when the Dad Harmony group arrives to perform. The a cappella group of five Swedish fathers is known for their warm interpretations and strong harmonies.

15.10. Wardruna takes the Finlandia Hall to different Nordic atmospheres. The Norwegian band’s music draws from Scandinavian ancient beliefs and nature, incorporating sounds from traditional Nordic instruments as well as wood, stones, bones, water, and fire.

Right after Wardruna, the Danish band Laid Back will perform at Finlandia Hall, with hits like Sunshine Reggae, White Horse, and Bakerman that have been with listeners for over four decades. An evening of familiar hits and nostalgia awaits!

After these concerts, classical ballet will take over Finlandia Hall when British Festival Ballet presents Swan Lake on 22–23.10. This classic based on Tchaikovsky’s music brings the story of Odette and Odile to Finlandia Hall, interpreted skillfully by an international ballet company.

November: blues, entertainment, and Father’s Day delicacies

4.11. At Finlandia Hall, we will enjoy the powerful blues rock voice of Beth Hart. The American artist, who has had a long international career, is known for her intense live performances and is familiar to Finnish audiences from events like Pori Jazz and the sold-out concert at Allas Pool.

We smoothly transition into the Christmas party season with 5–7.11. Jarkko Tamminen’s Stars Show. In this revue-style singing imitation show, Tamminen imitates and parodies over 40 familiar characters from the worlds of music, entertainment, sports, and politics. You can also purchase a Dinner&Show package for this experience and other delicacies — a perfect programmatic Christmas party set makes organizing the celebration much easier.

On the Father’s Day weekend, 7–8.11. Finlandia Cafe&Wine will serve a lavish festive brunch. Alongside seasonal savory and sweet delicacies, you can enjoy the café’s atmosphere and appreciate Alvar Aalto’s timeless design by Töölönlahti Bay.

Classical Aalto and impressive glass art

An experience at Finlandia Hall does not always require an event ticket. Visions of Alvar Aalto is a permanent exhibition at Finlandia Hall that uniquely opens up the lives, work, and thoughts of Alvar, Aino, and Elissa Aalto. The exhibition has been scripted by Kirsti Manninen and features unprecedented material from the Aalto estate.

Until the end of October, Finlandia Showroom will showcase the exhibition Broken Hands, which presents Soile Yli-Mäyry’s colorful paintings and impressive massive glass sculptures that are on display in Helsinki for the first time.

During your visit to the exhibition, be sure to stop by Finlandia Cafe&Wine, as you will receive a 10% discount on café products with a Visions of Alvar Aalto exhibition ticket. The discount also applies at Finlandia Shop, where it concerns Finlandia Collection products.

Visions of Alvar Aalto is a Museum Card destination, and there are also benefits for Museum Card holders, such as a day’s bun and coffee for a combined price of €6.50. See more information on the café’s pages!

It’s also worth keeping in mind that you can come to Finlandia Hall just for the sake of it, and there is no admission fee to the building.

Welcome to watch, experience, enjoy, and spend time – see you this autumn at Finlandia Hall!

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Soile Yli-Mäyry’s Solid Glass Sculptures on Display in Helsinki for the First Time

art, exhibition, Finlandia Cafe&Wine, Finlandia Hall, Finlandia Showroom, soile yli-mäyry

03.09.2026

The Särkyneet kädet (Broken Hands) exhibition, on view at the Finlandia Hall Showroom from 1 September to 30 October 2026, presents an extensive collection of works by Soile Yli-Mäyry.

Following a long and successful international career, Soile Yli-Mäyry’s art is now being exhibited in Helsinki for the first time in decades. Yli-Mäyry has held more than 300 exhibitions in galleries and museums across 30 countries, and her work has been widely exhibited throughout Europe, the United States and Asia.

Yli-Mäyry, who holds a Doctorate in Social Sciences and has been awarded the Pro Finlandia Medal, is known for her vibrant colours and distinctive painting style.

“We are delighted to bring artist Soile Yli-Mäyry’s brilliantly coloured glass sculptures and paintings to the Finlandia Hall Showroom,” says Johanna Tolonen, Managing Director of Finlandia Hall.

From Paintings to Solid Glass Sculptures

Yli-Mäyry creates her solid glass sculptures in collaboration with a master glassmaker and his team at Berengo Studio on the island of Murano in Venice, Italy.

The exhibition at Finlandia Hall presents an extensive selection of these works from different years. Among them are striking glass totems standing more than two metres tall.

Alongside the glass sculptures, the exhibition also features Yli-Mäyry’s paintings. The paintings provide an important foundation for her glass art: many of the subjects, forms and themes found in the sculptures originated in her paintings.

The opening of the exhibition will also see the launch of Yli-Mäyry’s new book, Massiivilasiveistoksia 2006–2026 (Solid Glass Sculptures 2006–2026), which brings together two decades of the artist’s work with glass.

SOILE YLI-MÄYRY – SÄRKYNEET KÄDET (BROKEN HANDS)

Finlandia Hall Showroom, Helsinki
1 September–30 October 2026
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00–18:00
FREE ENTRY

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Finlandia Hall to the UNESCO World Heritage List – “Helsinki now has everything it takes to become a design destination, but it requires cooperation”

26.07.2026

Finlandia Hall has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Aalto Works architectural series. Of the thirteen sites, five are located in Helsinki, and Finlandia Hall offers the public the most extensive and impressive experience among them. According to Finlandia Hall’s CEO, Helsinki now has everything it takes to become an international design destination, but this requires an ambitious vision and broad cooperation.

Finlandia Hall has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Aalto Works architectural series. The decision was made on Sunday, 26th July 2026 at the meeting of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea. The decision followed the June recommendation of ICOMOS, the Committee’s advisory body.

The Aalto Works series of 13 sites inscribed on the World Heritage List is unique from both a national and an international perspective. Five of the sites are located in Helsinki, and Finlandia Hall offers the public the most extensive and impressive experience among them. It is an excellent way to get acquainted with the entire life’s work of the Aaltos.

World Heritage status can be regarded as a kind of international hallmark of quality in architecture and cultural tourism. Finlandia Hall’s CEO Johanna Tolonen is confident that the number of design and architecture tourists visiting the building will increase. However, she hopes that positioning Helsinki as an international design destination will become a shared goal for both the City of Helsinki and all museum, hotel and tourism operators.

“The world’s most attractive cities consciously build their identity, make their destinations experiential, and tie them firmly into the living city. Helsinki now has, if nothing else, everything it takes to do the same, if we jointly decide to aim for it. The world is becoming ever more “glocal”, meaning that when local strengths are combined with global opportunities,” you can go a long way, Tolonen says.

Daniel Sazonov, Mayor of Helsinki, also emphasises that the five sites of the series located in Helsinki are an important part of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.

“The inscription of the Aalto Works series on the UNESCO World Heritage List is a wonderful and significant international recognition of Finnish architecture. The five sites located in Helsinki are an important part of our city’s architectural and cultural heritage. World Heritage status brings new visibility and international interest to these sites and reminds us Helsinki residents of our beautiful and architecturally rich home city,” says Daniel Sazonov, Mayor of Helsinki.

Event venues bring life to cities

At AIPC’s (International Association of Convention Centres) global congress held in Bilbao in July, several examples were presented of how cities have built their profile through experiential event venues. According to Tolonen, major congresses, concerts, trade fairs and impressive exhibitions bring life, wellbeing, and economic and social impact to the surrounding city. They increase the city’s appeal and vitality and generate significant revenue streams.

“Finlandia Hall has been the most internationally awarded venue in Helsinki in recent years: it has been named, among other things, the best congress venue in the world and has received recognition from, among others, Wallpaper, Monocle, Prix Versailles and now UNESCO. But individual sites alone cannot elevate a city into an international design destination. That’s why different players need to join forces,” Tolonen says.

A gateway to other Aalto sites

In August, a pop-up point for Helsinki tourist information will operate at Finlandia Hall, offering not only the city’s tourist information but also information on the sites of the Aalto Works series. The best place to start touring the other Helsinki Aalto Works sites is Finlandia Hall. The building’s major Visions of Alvar Aalto exhibition and guided building tours comprehensively explain why Aalto’s architecture is such an important part of world heritage.

In its June assessment, ICOMOS, the World Heritage Committee’s advisory body, stated that the Aalto Works series is a significant example of how the ideas of international modernism were combined with local building traditions, the environment, and human-centred design. The series is considered to have influenced the development of modern architecture outside Finland as well.

Contact for further information:

Johanna Tolonen, CEO, Finlandia Hall, +358405513168, johanna.tolonen@finlandiatalo.fi

Finlandia Hall is the world’s leading venue for congresses, events and culture in the heart of Helsinki. The building combines architecture, design, functionality and atmosphere in a unique way. In addition to event operations, the renovated Finlandia Hall’s service offering includes accommodation, a wine café with terraces, a design shop, a bistro restaurant, and an experiential permanent exhibition on the life’s work of Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto and on Finnishness.

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ICOMOS Supports UNESCO Inscription for Aalto Works

Finlandia Hall, ICOMOS, Unesco, World Heritage

15.06.2026

ICOMOS, the advisory body to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, has recommended the Alvar Aalto architectural ensemble for inscription on the World Heritage List. The nomination now advances to the World Heritage Committee, which will make the final decision at the end of July. If approved, the inscription would represent a powerful international quality hallmark for the Aalto Works sites.

At Finlandia Hall, the news of the recommendation has been received with great excitement. Five of the thirteen Aalto Works sites are located in Helsinki, and Finlandia Hall offers the broadest and most impressive experience of them all.

At Finlandia Hall, attention is firmly set on late summer. The venue is already preparing in full collaboration with the City of Helsinki to receive word on whether this architectural gem by Alvar Aalto will be among the sites newly inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

The Aalto Works nomination presented to the World Heritage Committee brings together thirteen architectural sites in Finland designed by Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto. Among the Helsinki sites, Finlandia Hall is the most multifaceted. It offers visitors a unique way to explore the Aaltos’ architecture, design and art: the major exhibition Visions of Alvar Aalto can be combined with a guided tour of the building, complemented by a wine café, a design shop, Bistro restaurant, and accommodation in original, renovated apartments. During summer, Finlandia Hall is open every day, making it an ideal starting point for exploring other Aalto Works sites in Helsinki.

“Finlandia Hall is the crown jewel of the Aalto Works ensemble. It is a living part of the Aaltos’ legacy — a space open to visitors where their architecture, design and culture come together. We are preparing at full speed for the July decision. At the same time, it is wonderful that the hall’s renewed services are also gaining international recognition: our Bistro event restaurant has been selected for the Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants 2026 list, a prestigious global architecture and design award,” says Johanna Tolonen, CEO of Finlandia Hall.

“The five Aalto Works sites in Helsinki are an important part of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage, and a potential World Heritage inscription would make them even better known and more attractive internationally. We want Aalto’s legacy to be easily accessible to both locals and visitors alike,” says Daniel Sazonov, Mayor of Helsinki.

The hall’s architecture and design have previously received international recognition as well. In 2025, the hall was awarded Monocle’s Best Hospitality Fit-Out distinction and the Best Modernist Revival award at the Wallpaper Design Awards.

In August, Finlandia Hall will also host a pop-up Helsinki Tourist Information point, where visitors can get city travel guidance as well as information about the Aalto Works sites.

Bringing the Joy of Design, Architecture and Culture to All

This is Finland’s first serial nomination for World Heritage status in the field of architecture. The ensemble reflects the Aaltos’ significance in building the Finnish welfare state and in the international development of modern architecture.

“At the heart of the Aaltos’ vision is humane architecture — design that combines humanity, aesthetics and functionality so that a good everyday life is accessible to everyone. Finlandia Hall likewise brings the joy of design, architecture and culture to all, not just a few,” Tolonen says.

A Multi-Stage Evaluation Process

The Aalto Works nomination is currently under UNESCO’s evaluation process. The process took a significant step forward when ICOMOS, the advisory body to the World Heritage Committee, recommended the ensemble for inscription on the World Heritage List.

The World Heritage Committee’s advisory bodies assess all candidates before a decision is made and prepare their recommendations for the Committee. The final decision on inscription on the World Heritage List will be made by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at its session in Busan, South Korea, at the end of July.

The Aalto Works nomination was submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in February 2025. The World Heritage Committee will convene from 19 to 27 July 2026. The exact date of consideration will be confirmed during the meeting.

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Summer at Finlandia Hall

Finlandia Hall

21.05.2026

Whether you’re out with friends, unwinding after a workday, or exploring summer in Helsinki, the 100-seat terrace of Finlandia Cafe & Wine offers the perfect place to pause, relax, and enjoy the season by the Töölönlahti bay.

All terrace events are free of charge.

Unfortunately, the Afterwork DJ night on August 26 has been canceled. The café and terrace will be open as usual.

Afterwork DJ evenings

Four afterwork DJ evenings will take place on the terrace throughout the summer. Raise a glass to summer, enjoy great music, and unwind in the unique setting of Finlandia Hall.

Afterwork DJ nights will be held on June 3, July 1, July 29, and August 26 (CANCELED)

Live music on summer evenings

The summer terrace will host four free live concerts. On concert evenings, artists will perform at 5 PM and 6 PM, with each set lasting approximately 45 minutes.

June 10 – Pepe Willberg Trio
Pepe Willberg Trio brings a nostalgic concert experience to the terrace, featuring the artist’s most beloved songs and classic hits in a warm summer evening atmosphere.

The trio consists of Pepe Willberg, Juha Lanu, and Aleksi Ahoniemi.

June 17 – Country Couple
Country Couple performs modern country music with a Nordic twist. Story-driven songs, harmonious vocals, and an authentic atmosphere create an accessible overall experience where traditional country influences meet contemporary expression.

July 15 – Sami Saari & Trio Tempo
Sami Saari performs with Trio Tempo in an atmospheric jazz evening featuring evergreen classics and well-known jazz standards. The performance combines Saari’s distinctive interpretation, swinging trio jazz, and an elegant summer evening ambiance.

August 12 – Osmo Ikonen
Osmo Ikonen performs solo, presenting his original compositions as well as distinctive interpretations of well-known songs. The evening offers high-quality music, strong expression, and versatility. Ikonen will perform one set between 5 pm and 7 pm.

Special events in August

In August, the terrace will also host two special events.

August 13 – Choir Tour / Kuorojen kierros
The Choir Tour brings live choral music into the summer terrace atmosphere.

Performing at Finlandia Cafe&Wine:

Akateeminen laulu
7.00–7.30 pm

Akateeminen laulu is a mixed choir with a history spanning more than 70 years. We mainly sing classical choral music, while also including lighter pieces in our repertoire. We want to boldly bring choral music into new and exciting settings.

Villimarjat Choir
7.30–8.00 pm

Light-hearted and partly humorous songs by well-known songwriters, arranged for choir.

Our repertoire includes familiar and much-loved songs, including works with lyrics by Saarikoski as well as songs made famous by Kaj Chydenius and Toni Edelman, arranged for choir.

August 20 – Night of the Arts / Taiteiden yö
During the Night of the Arts, Finlandia Hall takes part in the city-wide celebration of culture. The terrace invites guests to spend the evening surrounded by art, music, and a vibrant summer atmosphere.

Singer Iina Mutikainen and guitarist Saku Mattila offer an atmospheric selection of well-known songs for the Night of the Arts, performed with style and backed by decades of experience. Both have performed at some of Finland’s most prestigious ceremonial and official events, including events connected with the President’s Independence Day Reception.

Performance time: 6–8 pm. Finlandia Cafe&Wine will exceptionally remain open until 8 pm.

Fri 28 August – Nina Tapio & Petri Somer Duo

Singer Nina Tapio and pianist Petri Somer form a popular and accomplished duo, creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere with their music. Their repertoire features familiar Finnish and international classics.

Performance time: 6–8 pm. Finlandia Cafe&Wine will exceptionally remain open until 8 pm.

From 1 September: Soile Yli-Mäyry’s Särkyneet kädet (Broken Hands) exhibition at Finlandia Showroom.

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The abundance of lunch and brunch at Finlandia Cafe&Wine

Brunch, Finlandia Cafe&Wine, Finlandia Hall, Lunch, Vegan

26.03.2026

In the bright Aalto-inspired cafe, the everyday lunch moment transforms into a leisurely break. On Saturdays, the cafe fills up with brunch guests.

On a Thursday in early spring, the clock approaches two, meaning the end of lunch hour, but more smoked reindeer soup is still being served. There are plenty of takers right away.

“It has been really busy today,” smiles Anna, who works at Finlandia Cafe&Wine.

Finlandia Cafe&Wine has delighted everyday diners with its generous soup lunch for almost a year now. The lunches moved from the temporary location of Pikku-Finlandia to the cafe in the main building of Finlandia Hall last spring.

Pikku-Finlandia closed its doors in the fall of 2025. The previously offered popular Saturday brunches have also since moved to Finlandia Cafe&Wine. At the same time, the number of seats for brunch increased significantly.

“We always recommend making a reservation for brunch, as we often have full bookings on Saturdays,” reminds cafe manager Jenna Oivo.

A new favorite for lunchers

Many have found a new lunch spot for themselves at Finlandia Cafe&Wine. In the tranquility of Töölönlahti and in the atmosphere created by architect Alvar Aalto, the meal is often described as a serene moment to catch one’s breath in the middle of a busy workday.

The lunch served on weekdays from 11 AM to 2 PM consists of a changing soup and a generous salad bar. The lunch also includes bread and spread, as well as coffee or tea.

You can often spot leisurely lunchers in the cafe, who complement the soup and salad buffet with lunch wine and desserts. Sometimes the lunch buffet may also include small dessert surprises.

The idea of the soup lunch is simplicity, nourishment, and utilizing the best flavors of the season.

From the rotating menu that changes every three weeks, you can find, for example, butternut squash soup with roasted seeds, spicy lentil soup, and creamy mushroom soup. The salad bar complements the day’s soup and often includes more protein-rich sides.

The current lunch menu can always be found on the Finlandia Cafe&Wine website and on the highlights of Finlandia Hall’s Instagram for Cafe&Wine.

Brunch for the whole family – also vegan

Finlandia Cafe&Wine offers brunch every Saturday. Occasionally, special brunches are organized, such as themed settings for Valentine’s Day or Halloween. In May, on the eve of Mother’s Day, there will be a Mother’s Day cake brunch.

Vegan brunches have been particularly popular, typically held about once a month. This spring, the vegan brunch will be available on Saturdays, March 21, April 18, and May 16.

The vegan brunch is diverse and abundant, entirely plant-based buffet. There are plenty of fresh salads and vegetable dishes, delicious plant-based spreads and protein sources, as well as overnight oats, fruits, and smoothies. The brunch is enjoyed with juice or can be topped with sparkling wine if desired.

The brunch at Finlandia Cafe&Wine is a perfect way to start the weekend leisurely with friends or family, enjoying delicious food, presence, the bright atmosphere of the cafe, and the stunning views of Töölönlahti.

“Children are also very welcome at brunch. The youngest eat for free, and children aged 4—12 enjoy brunch at half price,” says Oivo.

Learn more about Finlandia Cafe&Wine

Book a table here

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Finlandia Hall among the finalists at the Evento Awards

AKL Summit, Evento Awards, Finlandia-talo, tapahtumapaikka, yritystapahtuma

12.03.2026

Seven years of strategic work brought several nominations in one of the most prestigious competitions in the event industry.

Finlandia Hall has been selected as one of the three finalists in the Evento Awards 2026 competition in the Event Venue (large) category. Also in the finals are Helsinki’s Cultural House and the Superterrace.

Together with Wolttigroup, the Grand Opening of Finlandia Hall is also a finalist in the category of free corporate events.

Additionally, Finlandia Hall is included in the category of paid corporate events, as the venue for the selected finalist AKL Summit of Event Makers.

Evento Awards is the most prestigious competition in the event industry in Finland, rewarding the best event venues, implementations, creators, and companies of the year.

“The nomination for the Evento Awards is above all a recognition for all those people who have built the renewed Finlandia Hall day by day,” says the Sales Director of Finlandia Hall, Jutta Vatanen.

Finlandia Hall entered the competition with a story that reflects the entire building’s journey in recent years: a transformation from an iconic conference and congress hall to an experiential destination where Alvar Aalto‘s timeless architecture meets modern service offerings.

Alongside event and meeting services, new experiences have been opened, such as the atmospheric coffee shop Finlandia Cafe&Wine, the event and reservation restaurant Finlandia Bistro, the design product store Finlandia Shop, and the Finlandia exhibition that brings to life Alvar, Aino, and Elissa Aalto‘s life and work as well as the essence of Finnishness.

Successful year

After a major renovation, Finlandia Hall, opened to the public in 2025, hosted over 600 events throughout the past year, welcoming nearly 370,000 visitors.

In its competition application, Finlandia Hall highlighted the bold strategic work that began seven years ago together with clients and partners, and how Aalto’s philosophy of putting people at the center has been taken literally as a guiding principle in all development.

“We wanted to create multiple reasons to come to the hall – not just one. The results speak for themselves,” notes Vatanen.

The winner will be announced on April 9 at the Evento Awards gala at the Old Student House.

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Finlandia Hall’s Revenue Tripled and Visitor Numbers Doubled – “An Extremely Successful First Year”

finlandia bistro, Finlandia Cafe&Wine, Finlandia Exhibition, Finlandia Hall, Finlandia Homes, Finlandia Shop

18.02.2026

2025 marked the grand reopening year of the renewed Finlandia Hall. The event venue successfully combined architecture and design with new services and programming, firmly returning the iconic building to the center of the events industry. Revenue rose to €18.4 million, more than tripling compared to the previous year (2024: €5.8 million). Visitor numbers more than doubled, reaching nearly 400,000 guests.

During its launch year, Finlandia Hall made a significant €7 million self-financed investment in new services and event technology. After recording the first depreciation from these investments, the company reported an operating profit of €456,000 — an excellent result for the industry.

“A Tremendous Effort from Our People”

Finlandia Hall CEO Johanna Tolonen attributes the successful outcome to three key factors: the launch, the services, and the people.

“First and foremost, we executed the major return of Finlandia Hall to the events sector perfectly and were able to host outstanding events right from the beginning of the year. Secondly, the strong public interest in our new services positively surprised us, although of course we hoped people would be as excited about them as we were.”

“However, the most important factor behind last year’s success was our staff. Taking over a property of this size and its technical systems after renovation is already challenging in itself. At the same time, we practically doubled our workforce. There were many new elements overall: people, roles, operations, even spaces. It requires agility, creativity, and a solution-oriented mindset to learn and teach so much while already operating at full speed. Last year was truly a tremendous effort from our people,” Tolonen says.

Finlandia Hall’s staff grew from 30 to 73 employees during the year. Of these, 64% work full-time and 36% part-time. The gender distribution was balanced: 50.6% women and 49.4% men. In addition to its own personnel, Finlandia Hall relied on partner companies providing outsourced services and specialist expertise, which play an important role in ensuring operational flexibility, particularly during peak seasons.

“All in all, 2025 was an extremely successful first year of our new era. We have only scratched the surface of the potential that the building and the surrounding urban life can offer,” Tolonen notes.

A Year of Events and Experiences

In 2025, nearly 600 events were held at Finlandia Hall, welcoming both domestic and international guests. International congress clients accounted for 35,000 visitors during the year. Highlights included the OSCE Helsinki+50 Conference, the FESSH Congress for hand surgeons, SLUSH Investor Day, and the return of Helsinki’s traditional Independence Day celebration for fourth-grade students hosted by the Mayor.

The year also introduced entirely new types of consumer events, including open house days, showroom exhibitions by Jukka Rintala, Ornamo and Aarikka, and a Christmas event organized in collaboration with Designkaverit. Popular young adult-targeted events previously held at Little Finlandia were successfully transferred to the main building.

Finlandia Hall’s entertainment and concert calendar became more diverse than in previous years, featuring classical music, heavy metal, ballet, electronic music, schlager, and stand-up comedy.

CEO Tolonen describes the diversification of programming as bold and deliberate innovation and concept development.

“We wanted to create a vibrant meeting place with a broad cultural offering for different age groups and diverse tastes. Last year showed that people are currently seeking inspiring experiences in their lives, and that we truly are a venue for all ages. For example, our bistro even hosted weddings and christenings, and birthday parties were celebrated on the Piazza,” Tolonen says with delight.

New Services Captivated Visitors – 100,000 Guests at the Café

Five new business units were launched at Finlandia Hall: a wine café, a bistro restaurant, a design shop, an exhibition space, and accommodation facilities. Each found its target audience during its first year and achieved profitable growth. In particular, the Finlandia Cafe&Wine quickly gained strong popularity. The combined revenue of the building’s cafés reached €1.1 million in its first year. Visitor numbers at the wine café met the target of 100,000.

Customer feedback on the new services has been outstanding. The exhibition achieved an exceptional Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 78. Overall customer satisfaction across services was excellent: event clients rated their experience on average 4.2 out of 5, while the café and bistro received 4.3.

International Media Visibility and Recognition

The reopening of Finlandia Hall attracted significant international media interest. During the year, 150 foreign journalists visited the venue, and extensive articles were published in outlets including The Guardian, Monocle, and Wallpaper.
The year also brought prestigious awards: Finlandia Hall received Monocle’s “Best Hospitality Fit-Out 2025” recognition and Wallpaper’s Design Awards 2025 prize for “Best Modernist Revival.” Additionally, the building’s renovation was nominated for the 2025 Finlandia Prize for Architecture.

Looking Toward 2026

The launch year was intense and eventful, laying a strong foundation for a new era. Finlandia Hall now serves as a stage for international congresses and events, a destination for architecture and design tourism, and a living room for the city’s residents.

“Although Finland’s events industry has not yet returned to its previous scale, I am pleased with how quickly we strengthened our position in a challenging market. We believe Finlandia Hall will attract increasingly diverse visitor groups in the coming years,” Tolonen says.

This year will also determine whether Alvar Aalto’s architectural ensemble of 13 sites — including Finlandia Hall — will be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Such designation would further increase international interest in Finland, Helsinki, and Finlandia Hall.

Meanwhile, the popular Little Finlandia hosted its final events in November 2025. In spring 2026, the building will transition into new use as additional facilities for a media high school and as a service building for a football park. At the same time, Finlandia Hall’s café will gain an expanded terrace and beautiful views over the renewed Töölönlahti Park.

Learn more about Finlandia Cafe&Wine
Learn more about Finlandia Bistro
Learn more about Finlandia Homes
Discover Finlandia Shop

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Aussie Grit Meets Finnish Sisu at Finlandia Hall

08.09.2025

In a new chapter of Finnish culture and craftsmanship, O/\TH GIN is now available at Finlandia Halls restaurant outlets. This iconic Helsinki venue and the premium gin brand have partnered to offer guests a refined experience, combining world-class design, innovation, and bold flavors.

From a Shared Passion to Something Tangible

Valtteri Bottas and Tiffany Cromwell, two individuals who are no strangers to the thrill of adventure and bold choices, combined their passions for quality and design to create O/\TH GIN. Their shared vision—rooted in Nordic tradition yet shaped by international influence—led to the crafting of a gin that’s not only a drink but a personal reflection of their journeys.

The formula is a tribute to the oats from Bottas’ family fields in Finland and the renowned Adelaide-grown apples near Tiffany’s hometown of Stirling, Australia.

Produced in small batches, O/\TH GIN is known for its balanced and clean flavor profile, shaped by Nordic ingredients and an unwavering commitment to quality. It’s a blend of heritage, innovation, and a deep connection to place—created for those who appreciate thoughtful craftsmanship.

First venue in Finland

Finlandia Hall is more than just a venue; it’s a living testament to Finnish design, culture, and innovation. With its striking Alvar Aalto architecture, it stands as a symbol of timeless beauty. By introducing O/\TH GIN, a product born of meticulous craftsmanship and bold vision, Finlandia Hall continues to offer guests an elevated experience that marries tradition with modernity.

“We are proud to be the first venue in Finland to feature a collaboration like this,” says Päivi Roiko, Head of Operations at Finlandia Hall, a passionate cyclist and F1 fan herself. “O/\TH GIN adds something fresh and personal to our offering, reflecting the creativity and quality we value here. We’re excited to share it with our guests in a variety of ways, from our events to seasonal offerings. It’s a perfect match for our ethos.”

Providing Experiences for Finlandia Hall Guests

As part of the collaboration, O/\TH GIN will be featured in a variety of Finlandia Hall’s services and events. The beverage is available and signed bottles tell the story about the visit of these special athletes. One of the first occasions where guests can experience this beverage will be at Finlandia Hall’s upcoming Christmas lunch, where the venue will serve thousands of guests. The traditional Christmas apple glögi (mulled wine) will be given a modern twist with a splash of O/\TH GIN, bringing a refined new take to this festive classic. Non-alcoholic version is also available.

O/\TH GIN is available at Finlandia Hall’s on-site restaurants, including Finlandia Cafe&Wine and Finlandia Bistro, where guests can enjoy for example a gin-based cocktails crafted. Whether you’re enjoying a meal, attending an event, or simply relaxing with a drink, O/\TH GIN offers a unique and sophisticated option for all occasions.

Captured in an Iconic Setting

To mark this exciting collaboration, a series of images was captured at Finlandia Hall featuring Bottas and Cromwell. To be known also for design background, it was great to let Tiffany Cromwell also to get to known for Finnish design and architecture. Set against the backdrop of Alvar Aalto’s architectural brilliance, these photographs encapsulate the essence of both partners. The visuals reflect not only the personalities behind the brand but also the spirit of innovation and elegance that defines both the beverage and the venue.

Please enjoy O/\TH GIN responsibly. Available to guests aged 18 and older. Non-alcoholic options also available.

Pictures: Jan-Erik Olin

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Valtteri Bottas and Tiffany Cromwell Visit Finlandia Hall – Exploring Architecture and Culture in the Heart of Helsinki

29.08.2025

This August, Finnish Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas and his partner, Australian professional cyclist Tiffany Cromwell, paid a special visit to Finlandia Hall. The couple explored the landmark’s world-renowned architecture, vibrant cultural offerings, and recently renewed spaces, while being photographed in some of its most iconic locations.

Photo: Valtteri Bottas and Tiffany Cromwell enjoyed recently opened Finlandia Exhibition. Photographer: Jan-Erik Olin.

Inspired by the Finlandia Exhibition

After an overnight stay at Finlandia Homes, the elegant apartments located within Finlandia Hall, Bottas and Cromwell began their tour of the cultural and event center.
A highlight of their visit was the Finlandia Exhibition, which celebrates the building’s history, the visionary work of Alvar Aalto, and its enduring role in Finnish cultural life. Both guests expressed admiration for the exhibition’s visual storytelling and the thoughtful details of the design.

Photo Moments at Finlandia Hall, Finlandia Bistro and Rooftop

During the visit, promotional photographs were taken in and around Finlandia Hall. The couple was photographed on the premises of Finlandia Hall. The panoramic views were captured at Finlandia Hall, Finlandia Bistro, renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and contemporary interior, as well as from the rooftop of Finlandia Hall, which offers sweeping views over Töölönlahti Bay and central Helsinki.

Finlandia Hall was proud to welcome this internationally recognised couple of athletes. We are already looking forward to their next visit and deepening our co-operation.

Photo: Power couple at iconic Alvar Aalto-designed Finlandia Hall. Photographer: Jan-Erik Olin.

Photo: Valtteri Bottas and Tiffany Cromwell at Finlandia Cafe&Wine. Photographer: Jan-Erik Olin.

Experiences from Morning to Evening at Finlandia Hall!

Finlandia Exhibition, which opened this summer, captivates its visitors. Tickets available in advance via Tiketti!
Enjoy lunch or spend a coffee break at Finlandia Cafe&Wine.
Take home souvenirs and lovely Finnish products from Finlandia Shop.
Book a dinner at Finlandia Bistro.
Explore upcoming events at Finlandia Hall.
Unique accommodation at Finlandia Homes.
Welcome to experience Finlandia Hall!