Kaustinen Folk Music Festival

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival is the largest annual international folk music and dance festival in Finland and in the Nordic countries since 1968 and is known for its family-friedly and cozy atmosphere. The artists at the festival vary from traditional Finnish solo performers to contemporary folk bands and international acts. The festival plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of folklore and its unique atmosphere consists of a free mix of amateur and professional artists. Annually more than 600 Finnish bands, dance groups, choirs and artists participate the Festival - in practice the Festival is providing the best possible way to see and hear everything one might desire about Finnish folk music and dance at one festival. The yearly bill of foreign artists include performers from 10-20 different countries and cultures, also varying from traditional ensembles to world music bands. In addition to hundreds of inspirational concerts, the festival has plenty of workshops, improvised jam sessions, dance performances, lectures and seminars. Kaustinen is located in the unspoilt Finnish countryside 430 km northwest from Helsinki with fresh air, rail & road connections.