Viaporin Kekri, Helsinki

Events / Viaporin Kekri, Helsinki

A magnificent revival of an ancient Finnish tradition, Viaporin Kekri is a unique cultural highlight, set on the beautiful Suomenlinna islands in the archipelago south of Helsinki.

Originally a pagan festival, Kekri was a day for feasting, singing and dancing while celebrating the last rays of light and marking the end of a (hopefully) rich harvest. Enjoying a proper feast on this day was thought to bring luck the following year too.

As Christianity took over, the tradition turned into a festival of life and death. People left food offerings for the spirits of their ancestors who came back to check if their land was in good hands.

Later the tradition died out, but its symbolic spirit was brought back to life in 2015 to once again become an annual celebration.

The modern interpretation involves a light trail, concerts, storytelling, a firefly path, guided tours, a tent sauna, stargazing events, light installations and much more on the Suomenlinna islands.

See also:
Unusual places to stay in Helsinki
One day in Helsinki: The ultimate guide