A strong national identity characterises Finnish art and culture, with Finns actively participating in cultural events, as well as producing works of considerable artistic merit themselves. This particular enthusiasm ensures a rich supply of cultural events on offer in the capital area throughout the year.
Helsinki offers a great number of different events and activities for people interested in sports, music, art, entertainment and science. Having been elected the World Design Capital 2012, the city will play host to a great number of events for everyone interested in design. Also, private organisations provide a diverse range of concerts and multicultural events for both Finnish and international residents of Helsinki.
Supply of cultural events
A wide variety of cultural events are organised all over the Helsinki metropolitan area, providing high-quality performances from both local and international artists. Furthermore, the city frequently plays host to all kinds of music, having also accumulated an international reputation for producing world class acts of its own.
Theatre is also very popular; The Finnish National Opera, The Finnish National Theatre and The Swedish Theatre in Helsinki as well as numerous smaller, independent theatres offer great theatre to residents. The onset of summer also brings with it a variety of high quality theatre, dance and music performed in many festivals held around the city
Free public libraries serve all residents
As Finns enjoy a passion for reading, Helsinki has a comprehensive network of public libraries. All services are provided free of charge to residents across the many municipal, academic and special libraries, as well as school libraries.
Information about culture and events in Helsinki
The Finnish National Opera
The Finnish National Theatre
The Swedish Theatre in Helsinki
Read more about culture in Helsinki
City of Helsinki, Event office
Helsinki City official tourism website
