Participation in national celebrations, exciting excursions, fishing and hiking, cultural festivals and sporting events – we’ve gathered the best experiences for an unforgettable year-round vacation.
On February 28, Finland celebrates Kalevala Day — the day of its national epic and cultural heritage.
But in Ilomantsi it has a special meaning: here Elias Lönnrot met Mateli Magdalena Kuivalatar, one of the key folk singers whose songs became part of the Kalevala. This makes Ilomantsi a true “power spot” of the epic.
Local celebrations include rune singing, literary evenings with music, and exhibitions about Kuivalatar and Lönnrot. It’s a chance not only to experience the epic, but also to feel its roots come alive in Karelia.
Pogostan Hiihto is Finland’s easternmost ski marathon, held for almost 50 years in Ilomantsi. Distances of 30 and 60 km are available in both classic and skating styles, plus a special retro race without timekeeping.
The tracks run through Karelia’s forests and hills, turning the race into an unforgettable adventure. Pogostan Hiihto is not just a competition, but a celebration of sport, friendship, and Karelian nature.
Fatbikes — bicycles with wide tires — are perfect for snow, ice, and forest trails. In winter they are especially popular in Finland. You can ride on marked routes in national parks, enjoying fresh air and snowy landscapes.
Both regular and electric fatbikes are available for rent, so you can choose how much effort you want to put in.
In Ilomantsi, unique fatbike trails await you! Ride snowy paths, explore forest routes, and join an exciting guided tour — unforgettable emotions guaranteed!
Juhannus, celebrated in late June at the summer solstice, is one of Finland’s biggest holidays. Its roots go back to ancient traditions of honoring the sun, fertility, and nature.
Modern Finns celebrate it at cottages near lakes, lighting bonfires, decorating homes with greenery and birch branches, singing, dancing, enjoying sauna, and sharing festive meals.
The night is “white,” with the sun barely setting. Many beliefs are tied to it — for example, young women collect flowers to dream of their future spouse.
Today, Juhannus symbolizes summer joy, closeness to nature, and brings families and friends together.
Every summer, the colorful Bear Festival takes place in Ilomantsi. Chainsaw artists turn logs into majestic wooden bears right before the eyes of the audience.
The sounds of carving, music, and the aroma of Finnish treats create a lively, festive atmosphere. In just a few hours, unique sculptures are born, later decorating the town’s streets and parks.
Today, you can see more than four hundred bears here, and Ilomantsi is rightly called “The Land of a Thousand Bears.”
A giant five-meter-tall bear, ILO!KARHU, greets visitors at the town’s entrance and has become the symbol of the festival.
This celebration brings together creativity, tradition, and joy, leaving every visitor with unforgettable memories.
Ilomantsi is a treasure for wildlife photographers.
Thick forests and mysterious swamps come alive through the lens: bears moving quietly, wolves on the hunt, rare birds in the morning mist.
The landscapes — mirrored lakes, golden rays through treetops — offer countless chances for unique shots.
Quiet hides and trails let you watch nature up close without disturbing it. Wildlife photography here is not just taking pictures, but full immersion in wild Finland.
Ilomantsi is a paradise for anglers!
The lakes are full of pike, zander, and perch, promising a great catch every time.
Imagine an early morning on calm, mirror-like water surrounded by endless forests, as your rod suddenly comes alive in your hands.
Fresh air, silence, and rich nature create the perfect setting for an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Step into the magic of Ilomantsi’s Karelian forests!
From mid-July to late September you can pick porcini, chanterelles, saffron milk caps, and juicy berries like blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries.
It’s not just an outdoor activity, but also a way to connect with local traditions.
Pristine forests, untouched nature, and stunning landscapes make Ilomantsi ideal for a healthy and colorful holiday.
Take a basket and set off for your own harvest of adventures!
New Year in Ilomantsi is a unique blend of serene northern nature and the warm traditions of Finland.
Instead of loud parties, you’ll find peaceful family celebrations, a clear starry sky, and fireworks glittering above snowy forests.
Visitors can set out on winter hikes, enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, and discover the rich Karelian culture of the region.
At the festive table, you’ll be treated to succulent roasted ham, traditional Karelian pies, fragrant vegetable casseroles, and creamy salmon soup. For dessert, be sure to try rice pudding with almond and crisp gingerbread cookies.
The symbol of the Finnish winter — Joulupukki — visits children at Christmas, while on New Year’s Eve locals welcome the future with champagne, tin-casting fortune telling, and the joy of being together with loved ones.
Ilomantsi invites you to celebrate the holidays the northern way: heartfelt, flavorful, and surrounded by a true winter fairytale.
