June

Mon 8 June, 6:00 PM
Kivakisat Athletics Competition
Kuhmo Sports Centre. Events: 40 m, 60 m, 100 m, long jump, and javelin. Categories for all ages. Registration information here.

Thu 11 June – Sun 14 June
Youth Dance Camp
For young people aged 10–16. Further information and registration available here.

Mon 15 June, 6:00 PM
Kivakisat Athletics Competition
Kuhmo Sports Centre. Events: 40 m, 60 m, 100 m, 800 m, and long jump. Categories for all ages. Further information and registration available here.

Tue 16 June, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Excursion to SuperPark
Further information and registration available here.

Wed 17 June, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Excursion to Kajaani Outdoor Swimming Pool
Further information and registration available here.

Wed 17 June, 6:00–7:00 PM
Summer Musicians’ Children’s Concert at Lentua Hall.

Tue 23 June, 12:00 PM
Making Space for Trout – Fishing Event
Riverside area near Kuhmo Library.

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Wed 24 June, 10:00–11:00 AM
Sylväjän Lilja | Sea Adventure – Concert for the Whole Family
Kuhmo Market Square. Free admission!

Sea Adventure is a joyful and engaging children’s concert that takes audiences on an unforgettable musical journey from the waves of the Atlantic Ocean to the heart of Kainuu. Come and hear stories from life at sea, enjoy the ship cook’s delicacies, and marvel at the wonders of the underwater world.

The performance is suitable for the whole family and encourages children to participate by singing, playing, and using their imagination.

Sylväjän Lilja is a folk music duo from Kuhmo, founded in 2024 by two professional musicians. Their repertoire consists mainly of Finnish folk music as well as original compositions. Despite being a relatively new ensemble, they have already created several concert programmes for audiences of all ages.

This summer at Sommelo, they present Sea Adventure – From Cape Verde to Kuhmo, a performance especially designed for children. Through humour and music, audiences join the Captain and the Sailor on their seafaring adventures.

Performers

• Minna Seilonen – vocals, violin, kanteles, ukulele, flute, and harmonium
• Ulla-Sisko Ekundayo – vocals, kanteles, bowed lyre (jouhikko), and harmonium

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Thu 25 June – Sun 28 June 2026
Raftsmen Camp
Further information and registration available here.

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Thu 25 June, 2:00–3:00 PM
Sommelo Näppäri Course Final Concert
Tuupala Wooden School.

Participants of the Sommelo Näppäri Course perform under the direction of Siiri Virkkala, Elina Havia, and Oskari Hanhikoski.

Tickets: €10 / €5

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Mon 29 June, 6:00 PM
Kivakisat Athletics Competition
Kuhmo Sports Centre. Events: 40 m, 60 m, 100 m, long jump, and shot put. Categories for all ages. Further information and registration available here.

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Tue 30 June, 12:00–2:00 PM
Traditional Games and Outdoor Play
Kontio School.

Come and enjoy traditional Finnish outdoor games and playground activities.

30 June – 3 July 2026

Joutsentanssi – Kuhmo Dance Festival

The Forest Hums, the Ground Trembles! – Children’s Summer Dance Camp

Children’s Camp
Tue–Fri: 9:00 AM–3:30 PM
Sat: 3:00–5:00 PM
Fee: €120 / €100 / €160 (includes 4 lunches)

Location: Kalevala Area
Instructors: Wilma Seppälä and assistant instructor Saara Milton

This creative workshop camp combines dance, art, exploration, games, and outdoor activities inspired by the wonders of nature. The camp is designed for children aged 7–12. Registration here.

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Monkeying Around & Choreography – Youth Camp

Youth Camp
Tue–Fri: 9:00 AM–3:30 PM
Sat: 3:00–5:00 PM
Fee: €120 / €100 / €160 (includes 4 lunches)

Location: Kalevala Area
Instructors: Sofia Keto-Tokoi & Miro Puranen

The youth camp combines two courses led by two instructors.

In the Choreography Course, participants learn how to create new dance pieces and perform existing choreography under the guidance of Sofia Keto-Tokoi.

In the Monkeying Around Course, participants explore acrobatics, climbing, movement, and playful physical expression with instructor Miro Puranen.

The camp is designed for young people aged 12–15. Registration here.

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Festival Programme

Tuesday

9:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Children’s Camp
• Youth Camp

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Wednesday

9:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Children’s Camp
• Youth Camp

4:00–5:30 PM

• Opening Adult Workshop: Choreography of the Moment

Additional Programme

• 6:00–6:45 PM Summer Musicians’ Evening Dance Party (Iltamat)

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Thursday

9:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Children’s Camp
• Youth Camp

9:30 AM–12:00 PM

• Adult Workshop: How Does the Forest Make Us Dance?

1:00–3:30 PM

• Adult Workshop: Singing in the Forest

Additional Programme

• 6:00 PM Pajakkakoski River Swim Through the Rapids
• 7:30–9:30 PM Campfire Stories by the River (Pajakkajoki)

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Friday

9:00 AM–3:30 PM

• Children’s Camp
• Youth Camp

9:30 AM–12:00 PM

• Adult Workshop: The Joy of Theatre Improvisation

1:00–3:30 PM

• Adult Workshop: Boundaries Are Love

Additional Programme

• 6:00–7:00 PM Guest Performances at the Kide Stage (Market Square)
• 8:00–10:00 PM Contact Improvisation Jam Session (Mydance)

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Saturday

10:00–11:00 AM

Dancing Under the Open Sky

A dance session for the whole family

12:00 PM

• Excursion to Harakkasaari Island

1:00 PM

• Theatre Improvisation in the Forest
• Opportunity for swimming

Approx. 3:00 PM

• Return from the excursion

Additional Programme

• 4:00 PM Camp Performances
• 5:15 PM Lentua Residency Performance
• 6:30 PM Evening Dance Party (Iltamat) & Dance Film Screening
• 9:00 PM Silent Forest Disco

July

Wed 1 July

10:00–11:00 AM & 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Craft Workshop for Children Aged 3–7 at Juminkeko
A joyful crafting session where little hands can create big things!

5:30–7:00 PM
Pancake Gathering & Playground Meet-Up
Maakunnanranta Playground. Voluntary donation for pancakes. Relaxed socialising and guided play activities.

6:00–7:30 PM
Summer Musicians’ Evening Dance Party (Iltamat)
Lentua Hall.

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Thu 2 July

10:00–11:00 AM & 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Playing Like in the Old Days (for children aged 3–7)
Welcome to a traditional play session where children can discover fun and active games from the past. We’ll jump rope, play tag, try “church rat” and other classic favourites that are still enjoyed today.

The session offers the joy of movement, shared activities, and a glimpse into childhood in earlier times. Suitable for all ages, especially children aged 3–7 (with adult supervision if needed).

3:00–7:00 PM
Amazing Race
Kontio Beach.

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Fri 3 July

2:00–3:00 PM
The Lost Rune Forest Quest
Outdoor escape game for children aged 6–9 at Juminkeko.

A mysterious rune has disappeared, and participants must solve clues and complete challenges to find it. The game accommodates a maximum of five participants at a time.

Please note: The activity is weather-dependent and cannot be held during heavy rain.

6:00 PM
Joutsentanssi Market Square Performance
Kide Stage, Kuhmo Market Square.

Further information and registration available here.

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Sat 4 July

Lentiira Summer Day

Lentiira Village Hall (Lentiirantie 4255)

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

• Café and Karelian pie shop open

From 10:00 AM

• Performance by the Summer Musicians

11:00 AM

• Activities for children organised by the Kuhmo 4H Association, including a Backyard Olympics

Throughout the day:

• Grilled sausages and pancakes available for purchase

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Joutsentanssi: Dancing Under the Open Sky – A Family Dance Session

Workshop
10:00–11:00 AM
Fee: €10 per family

Location: Kalevala Area
Instructor: Sofia Keto-Tokoi

Come and dance outdoors with the whole family! Together we will explore summer nature through movement and music.

How does a bird glide through the sky? How does a beetle scurry across the ground?

Dancing Under the Open Sky is a gentle and joyful dance experience for children and adults surrounded by the beautiful nature of Kuhmo.

The workshop is designed for preschool-aged children and their guardians.

No advance registration required. For more information.

Sat 4 July

The Mysterious Treasure Map – The Lost Treasure of the Kalevala

11:00 AM–12:00 PM & 12:00–1:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–12

Join an exciting treasure hunt inspired by the characters and stories of the Kalevala. Participants will explore nature, solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and follow clues in search of a hidden treasure.

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Joutsentanssi Excursion to Harakkasaari Island

12:00 PM

Theatre Improvisation in the Forest

1:00–2:00 PM
Open Workshop – Free of Charge

Location: Harakkasaari Island
Instructor: Katri Viljamaa

Saturday’s excursion to Harakkasaari Island includes the workshop Theatre Improvisation in the Forest.

What happens when the forest becomes your stage? In this workshop, participants immerse themselves in nature while exploring presence, playfulness, interaction, and imagination through theatre improvisation.

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Kuhmon Potkijat Summer Sports & Football Event

2:00–4:00 PM
Kuhmo Sports Centre

An afternoon of sports activities and football for children and families.

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Mon 6 July

Museum Adventure

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Tuupala Museum
Free admission

Explore the museum through fun and engaging activities designed for children and families.

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

An outdoor escape game where participants solve clues and challenges to find a missing rune.

Maximum of five participants per session.

Please note: The activity is weather-dependent and cannot be held during heavy rain.

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Kivakisat Athletics Competition

6:00 PM
Kuhmo Sports Centre

Events:

• 40 m
• 60 m
• 100 m
• Long jump
• 600 m

Categories for all ages. Registration information here.

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Tue 7 July

The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

Outdoor escape game. Maximum five participants per session.

Weather permitting.

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Wed 8 July

On the Fields of Kalevala – Fairy Tale Theatre Performance

10:00–11:00 AM
Juminkeko

A lively and humorous children’s theatre performance inspired by familiar characters and locations from the Kalevala.

The story takes audiences on an adventure filled with challenges, brave choices, and lessons about friendship, honesty, and believing in oneself.

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Introduction to Canoeing Equipment

3:00–4:30 PM

Hosted by the Kuhmo Canoeing Club, offering families and young people an opportunity to become familiar with paddling equipment.

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Pancake Gathering & Playground Meet-Up

5:30–7:00 PM
Maakunnanranta Playground

Voluntary donation for pancakes.

Relaxed socialising and guided play activities.

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Thu 9 July

Family Picnic

A relaxed gathering for families. Further details will be announced separately.

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

Outdoor escape game. Maximum five participants per session.

Weather permitting.

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Fri 10 July

Draw, Väinö, Draw! – Children’s Art Competition

10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–12

Children are invited to interpret Kalevala stories through art by drawing their favourite characters or scenes.

The competition encourages creativity and introduces participants to Finland’s national epic through visual expression.

The best artworks will be awarded prizes.

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Sat 11 July

Magic Trail – Kalevala Adventure Course

11:00 AM–12:00 PM & 12:00–1:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–12

A fun and active adventure course where children discover Kalevala stories through movement and play.

Along the route, participants cross bridges, solve tasks, practise teamwork, and face challenges that develop agility, courage, and problem-solving skills.

The trail offers an engaging way to learn about Finnish folklore and nature while enjoying an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Mon 13 July

Museum Adventure

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Tuupala Museum
Free admission

Enjoy a fun museum adventure for the whole family.

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

An outdoor escape game where participants solve clues and challenges to find a missing rune.

Maximum of five participants per session.

Please note: The activity is weather-dependent and cannot be held during heavy rain.

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Tue 14 July

Reading and Crafting with a Cat

10:00–11:00 AM
Juminkeko
For children aged 3–7

Welcome to a cosy reading and craft session featuring a charming feline companion!

The session begins with a story time featuring a child-friendly tale from Viena Karelia, followed by a creative crafting activity.

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Jolly July: Children in Evacuation – Photo Orienteering

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Winter War Museum

A family-friendly photo-orienteering activity exploring the experiences of evacuated children during wartime.

Children’s ticket: €3

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Wed 15 July

On the Fields of Kalevala – Fairy Tale Theatre Performance

10:00–11:00 AM
Juminkeko

A lively and humorous children’s theatre performance inspired by familiar Kalevala characters and locations.

The story takes audiences on an adventure filled with challenges, brave choices, and lessons about friendship, honesty, and self-belief.

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Free Student Concert – Kuhmo Music Courses

12:30 PM
Tuupala Primary School Hall

A free concert performed by students participating in the Kuhmo Music Courses.

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Playground Meet-Up

5:30–7:00 PM
Maakunnanranta Playground

Relaxed socialising and guided play activities for families and children.

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Thu 16 July

Free Student Concert – Kuhmo Music Courses

12:30 PM
Tuupala Primary School Hall

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

Outdoor escape game. Maximum five participants per session.

Weather permitting.

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Fri 17 July

Free Student Concert – Kuhmo Music Courses

11:00 AM
Pajakka Hall

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

Outdoor escape game. Maximum five participants per session.

Weather permitting.

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Sat 18 July

Kalevala Games

11:00 AM
Juminkeko

The Kalevala Games are a lively team competition where participants move between activity stations and compete against one another.

Challenges test:

• Agility
• Quick thinking
• Teamwork
• Knowledge inspired by Kalevala stories

Every team completes all stations, and success depends on both speed and cooperation.

The event offers exercise, team spirit, and plenty of fun in the spirit of the Kalevala.

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Kuhmo Chamber Music Children’s Concert: Ella’s Birthday

1:00 PM
Tuupala Primary School

Tickets: €15 / €13 (discounted price with S-Etukortti)

A delightful story concert celebrating friendship, creativity, and humorous adventures.

Created by:

• Timo Parvela
• Lotta Kuusisto
• Niko Kumpuvaara

The programme features highlights from the beloved Ella and Friends book series, selected by Timo Parvela, with songs composed by Iiro Rantala.

Duration: 45 minutes.

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Sun 19 July

Family Kyykkä Tournament

2:00 PM
Juminkeko

Try Kyykkä, a traditional Karelian throwing game that requires no previous experience.

Families can form their own teams, and children will have smaller throwing sticks designed especially for them.

Come and discover one of Karelia’s most beloved traditional games!

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Mon 20 July

Museum Adventure

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Tuupala Museum
Free admission

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The Lost Rune Forest Quest

2:00–3:00 PM
Juminkeko
For children aged 6–9

Outdoor escape game. Maximum five participants per session.

Weather permitting.

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Eero’s Pot Trophy Athletics Competition

6:00 PM
Kuhmo Sports Centre

Events:

• 40 m
• 60 m
• 100 m
• Long jump

Children’s categories for boys and girls aged 2–15.

Further information and registration available separately.

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Tue 21 July

Jolly July: Children in Evacuation – Photo Orienteering

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Winter War Museum

A family-friendly photo-orienteering activity exploring the experiences of evacuated children during wartime.

Children’s ticket: €3

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