Mikkeli Music Festival 2025 in Lake Saimaa region: Inspired by Legends inspiration tour

The Mikkeli Music Festival 2025 blends history, nature, and world-class music in the scenic town of Mikkeli, Finland. Set by Lake Saimaa, Mikkeli is known for its wartime history, natural beauty and local tasty food. Easily reachable from Helsinki (2.5h) it also offers numerous cottages and cultural experiences.

Day 1: Wed, Aug 6 – Exploring Mikkeli

Arrive in Mikkeli and visit the lively marketplace to taste local delicacies like fried vendace and fresh berries. Explore the city’s wartime history at the Muisti Centre of War and Peace and climb Naisvuori Hill for panoramic views. Enjoy waffles at the historic water tower café.

Day 2: Thu, Aug 7 – Manors, Gardens & Sibelius

Visit Kenkävero Vicarage for local cuisine, shopping, and lush gardens. Take nature walk in the Saimaa UNESCO Geopark before dining at Tertti Manor. In the evening, experience Sibelius’ Kullervo performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra at Mikkeli’s historic wooden church.

Day 3: Fri, Aug 8 – Ancient Mysteries of Lake Saimaa

Take a guided boat tour to the Astuvansalmi rock paintings, dating back 4000 years. Enjoy an open-fire lakeside lunch and a Finnish sauna experience at Uhkua. Discover Ristiina’s historical sites, including Finland’s first military academy and Pien-Toijola Open-Air Museum.

Day 4: Sat, Aug 9 – The Kalevala & Tolkien

Explore the connection between Finland’s epic Kalevala and Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings at Tuukkala’s archeological site. Visit Sahanlahti Resort for a gourmet lunch and an Ecoboat tour in the Puumala archipelago. In the evening, experience The Lord of the Rings symphonic suite by the London Philharmonic Orchestra at Mikaeli Concert Hall.

Day 5: Sun, Aug 10 – Legends in Art & Music

Discover Finnish visual arts at Salmela Art Center in Mäntyharju. Conclude the festival with Mozart’s Requiem at Mikkeli’s Pitäjänkirkko, performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

A perfect blend of history, mythology and music awaits at Mikkeli Music Festival 2025