exhibitionin progress
A photography exhibition showcasing Ismo-Pekka Heikinheimo's choreographies spanning five decades, featuring images of his major dance works and his long collaboration with photographer Sakari Viika.
festival12:00East Helsinki's literature celebration bringing together authors, publishers and booksellers. The programme features author meetings, discussions and activities for children.
festival19:00Finnish wordsmith Asa performs at the East Book Festival alongside Duo Vastaanotin. An evening of music, lyric poetry, and spoken word featuring writers from East Helsinki.
lecture15:00in 2 days
An eight-part lecture series on Egyptian history from the pharaohs to today. Historian Hanna-Riitta Toivanen-Kola examines ancient legacies, Ptolemaic Egypt, the arrival of Islam and the development of modern Egypt.
lecture18:00in 2 days
Ten lectures on medieval art and symbolism. Explore the foundations of Christian visual language, church architecture, and medieval manuscripts.
lecture13:00in 3 days
A community singing group at Stoa where classical melodies and folk music are performed together under the guidance of music teacher Vesa Lintula.
other14:30in 3 days
Free circus course for seniors at Stoa where you practice balance and mobility with circus equipment. The course is open to everyone regardless of prior experience.
other16:00in 3 days
Free circus course for seniors focusing on balance, flexibility, and coordination. Led by circus instructor Enrique Salas with teaching in English, Spanish, and Finnish.
lecture17:00in 3 days
A lecture series exploring Finnish painted art and artists. Each evening focuses on one Finnish painter's work and its artistic context.
lecture18:45in 3 days
Lecture series on classical texts of ancient Greek drama and their ideas. Docent Markku Koivusalo presents works by Aristophanes and Euripides from September through November.
other09:15in 4 days
Circus course for 1-2-year-olds and their caregivers. Sessions develop strength, coordination, and dexterity while introducing acrobatics. Parental participation in exercises is mandatory.
other10:30in 4 days
Circus course for baby families with children aged 6-12 months, developing strength, coordination, and acrobatics together with a parent. Free at Stoa's music hall in September and October.
lecture14:30in 4 days
Lecture series on East Karelia's history from the Middle Ages to the Soviet era, focusing on the region between Russia and Finland. Eight lectures cover the contested territory and the dramatic events of the late 19th century.
lecture17:00in 4 days
A five-part lecture series on the architecture and history of North Africa's best-preserved ancient cities, presented throughout September.
lecture10:00in 5 days
A series of singing workshops for immigrants where Finnish is learned through music and movement. Advance registration is required.
lecture17:00in 5 days
A lecture series tracing how Helsinki's natural world has transformed over two centuries. Nature guide Eero Haapanen covers birds, wildlife and fishing through a historical lens.
ballet18:00in 5 days
Five choreographers from Finland and Norway present their interpretations of love through dance. A witty host guides the audience through an evening of works ranging from 10 to 20 minutes each.
lecture16:30in 6 days
A lecture series on opera's evolution from the 20th century to today. Covers impressionism, expressionism, modernism, and contemporary opera, exploring how composers transformed the form and expression of opera.
ballet18:00in 6 days
Ismo Dance Company presents works by five choreographers exploring love. The programme features four Finnish and one Norwegian choreographer, with pieces lasting 10-20 minutes each.
other15:00Five choreographers from Finland and Norway present their contemporary dance works exploring love. Each piece lasts 10-20 minutes and is introduced by a surprise host.
festival(2 days)
Two-day multidisciplinary hip-hop project for grades 5-6 featuring workshops in dance, graffiti, and music. On the second day, students build and perform the show together for an audience.
lecture18:00Stoa's Author Guests series brings together writers and book lovers. October features social media personality Ulla Onerva, November brings actor and author Markku Haussila. Free admission.
other14:00Katja Koukkula and Jussi Väänänen lead free afternoon dances at Stoa Hall for both beginners and experienced dancers.
other17:00Three creative evening workshops where you make different decorations using recycled materials, natural materials, and paper. Instruction is offered in Finnish, French, and English, and participation is completely free.
lecture18:00Open writers' meetup where you practice writing together, read your own texts, and receive encouraging feedback. No registration or fee required.
lecture18:45Writer Jussi Ahlroth presents a five-part lecture series on Western philosophers from a Buddhist perspective, based on his book "A Letter from Buddha".
festival19:00Nine artists from different disciplines meet on Stoa's stage for an evening of improvised music, dance, and visual art. Sergio Castrillón curates an experimental programme where performances emerge in the moment and the audience can become part of "Blind dates for improvisers".
festival18:00Nomads Festival at Stoa presents international music: Kazakh-Finnish Aizhan Sultan merges tradition with contemporary sound, Sámi artists Hildá Länsman & Tuomas Norvio explore northern identity, and DJ Bunuel plays throughout the night.
concert17:00NUMI is a free music event for young artists aged 13-29. Eight performers present their songs and receive guidance from experienced mentors.
festival17:00Young people organize a culture festival featuring music, dance, crafts and games. The evening's highlight is Jambon performing in the theatre hall at 7 pm.
stand-up18:00Itäkuskus is a rapidly growing stand-up club featuring comedians from diverse backgrounds. Regular performer Fabe and host Mebe lead evenings with humor about cultural differences and the Finnish language - political correctness is not the focus.
exhibition(37 days)
Häiriköt Headquarters and the Animal Rights Academy present an exhibition about the invisibility of animals in society. Four artists explore industrial animal farming through counter-ads, documentary imagery and comic art.
festival(2 days)
An interdisciplinary festival combining research, art, and animal rights advocacy. The programme includes music, discussions, and food for everyone interested in the topic.
lecture15:45A philosophy café where participants discuss fundamental questions about human existence throughout the autumn. Each meeting opens with a brief philosophical introduction followed by shared reflection. Free entry and no prior knowledge required.
lecture17:00A lecture series tracing Finnish architectural history from medieval stone churches to contemporary housing estates. Seven talks held over autumn at Stoa.
lecture17:00A lecture series examining how art and architecture have been used to express political power from classicism to the present day.
![Kauri Honkakoski Company: HIGH TIDE [nousuvesi] - Premiere — Stoa, Helsinki](/images/events/68926.webp)
theater18:00Kauri Honkakoski Company's apocalyptic drawing-room drama explores a tipping point through physical theatre. A wordless ensemble piece on paradise's final shore, where a group of people enjoy a picnic as the world crumbles around them.
![Kauri Honkakoski Company: HIGH TIDE [nousuvesi] — Stoa, Helsinki](/images/events/69083.webp)
theater18:00Kauri Honkakoski Company's physical theatre ensemble work explores the world's collapse and tipping points. A 60-minute non-verbal performance built on embodiment, recommended from age 12.
lecture16:30A monthly gathering where you can meet the artists and creators behind Stoa's upcoming exhibitions. Open to anyone interested in art.
festival15:00Fright for Cockatoos brings All Hallows' Eve spirit to Stoa for all ages. Come masked or as yourself, with art, activities, and Stoa's gentle dragon.
other17:00Creative craft workshops where participants make decorations under the guidance of Chloé Mahy-Hulkko. Participation is free and refreshments are served at the café.
lecture18:45A lecture series on the four fundamental forces and their role in shaping galaxies, stars, and life. No prior knowledge needed, free admission.
other15:00Mélanie Demers leads a workshop exploring inner mythology through movement and performance, bridging private vulnerability and public expression.
theater20:00Choreographer Mélanie Demers and performer Angélique Willkie explore self-revelation through dance, voice, and presence in this intense solo performance.
lecture12:00An intensive workshop for performing arts professionals with choreographer Jenni-Elina von Bagh, exploring the body as a space of potential through movement, sound, and bodily perception.
lecture15:00A lecture series exploring ancient Sparta's history and significance through archaeology and written sources, led by PhD Nikolai Paukkonen.
theater18:00Betty Tchomanga explores the history of colonialism through four portraits where dance, speech and body tell stories from France to Benin, Algeria and Ethiopia. A performance at Stoa as part of the Liikkeellä marraskuussa festival.
club17:00A gathering place for podcast-loving young people where you can present your own podcast or simply listen to others in a laid-back setting.
lecture17:00Two lectures on household preparedness: first the fundamentals of home supplies and surviving extended disruptions, then 72-hour preparedness from an outdoor enthusiast's angle.
other18:00Michael Turinsky presents his solo work Precarious Moves, exploring movement and mobilization from the perspective of a physically disabled person. An ironic and intellectual work that challenges established notions of movement and environment.
exhibition(7 days)
A sensory path through an enchanting forest designed by art educator Jenni Vilander. The installation is accessible to all ages and welcomes both small children and people with various mobility needs.
lecture14:30A two-part lecture series on foreign policy and media during the Kekkonen era. Historian Riku Keski-Rauska and author Jukka Kortti examine dissenters and Finnish media's relationship with the Soviet Union.
theater10:00A Swedish-language children's show based on Gunilla Bergström's beloved Mikko Mallikas books. This 35-minute touring production for ages 2-8 features three actors bringing the story to life.
cinema09:15Pulpettikino is the children's section of the Love & Anarchy film festival, featuring free silent films for preschool and primary school groups. Advance registration is required.
festival(2 days)
The Helsinki Comic Festival at Stoa is a free and open festival with the theme "Together". The programme features author interviews, panels, workshops, and exhibitions with a comic market where artist collectives from Finland and across Europe participate.
festival09:30The Children's Comics Festivals celebrate comics for kids with authors, workshops, and activities where children serve as both interviewers and interviewees.
lecture17:00A three-part lecture series on Östersundom manors, the chapel, and cultural landscapes. Discover the area's history and buildings from the 1600s to today.
cinema17:00Three dance films featuring older adults in leading roles are screened and discussed under the guidance of community artist Elli Isokoski.
lecture14:30A lecture on Helvi Juvonen, a modernist poet who lived in contradiction between her art and her faith, and how society's prejudices shaped her life and work.
cinema12:00The short film "Iisi Keissi" follows a young man's choices in the criminal underworld of the suburbs. After the screening, you will meet director Ali Al-Saffu.
cinema09:15A classic Swedish family film about the young robber girl Ronja and her adventures. Suitable for the whole family.
festival17:00A solo work blending video art and juggling that explores lost connection with nature through dreams and adventure. Part of the Helsinki Circus Festival.
other16:00A silent circus show about friendship and encountering difference. Agit Cirk presents Kajo, where an eccentric circus director searches for his lost friends alongside a shy companion. Suitable from age 3.
concert11:00A trio acrobatic circus show where time becomes the main character. AikaKONE is an interactive adventure that is part of Helsinki Circus Festival.
festival17:45Contemporary circus meets comedy when The Nordic Council presents Häppy Hour, an absurd exploration of northern nightlife and our relationship with alcohol.
lecture14:30Historian Riku Keski-Rauska explores Juha Vikatmaa's life, the forces behind his success, and what his story reveals about achievement and its costs.
theater15:00A contemporary circus work exploring bodily expression and our time. RISA's performance plays at the boundary between light and shadow, where acrobatics and dance merge into a unified whole.
other13:00A collective workshop from the Toisissa tiloissa collective where participants create "peace movements" together with live wind music. Open to everyone over 14 years old and younger children with an adult.
other10:30Jussi Ollila guides children through improvised stories on the Creatures' Meadow. Tales emerge from the children's ideas and meadow life, accompanied by a travel guitar. Suitable for ages 3-7.
exhibition(18 days)
Comic artist Emilia Laatikainen presents her work at the Helsinki Comics Festival. Her award-winning autobiographical series explores themes of birds, black and white imagery, and shame.
exhibition(18 days)
Exhibition of Ukrainian and Finnish comic artists at the Helsinki Comic Festival. The project showcases Ukraine's growing comic culture and supports the country.
exhibition(18 days)
The Kutiburger exhibition showcases comic art from the Finnish magazine Kuti and Slovenian Stripburger. The show features printed and unique works exploring the dialogue between Finland's and Slovenia's independent comic scenes.
other17:30Circus course for children aged 3-5 with an adult. Over ten weeks, participants learn fundamental acrobatics, movement, and balance skills while building confidence together.
lecture17:00Jussi-Pekka Hanhela delivers a free lecture on power of attorney for interest protection, which secures property management and care decisions when a person can no longer decide for themselves.
festival14:00Stoa hosts Finland Nature Day at Hallainvuori with guided walks, insect research, and a forest concert featuring kantele artist Pekko Käppi. Free admission.
other10:30Jussi Ollila leads children on a forest adventure where stories emerge from their ideas and nature's inspiration. A travel guitar is included.
festival(5 days)
UrbanApa returns to Stoa with a festival showcasing diverse forms of urban contemporary art - multidisciplinary performances by professional artists and cultural influencers.
concert19:00Kontula Electronic's third night at Stoa features 111x, Beherit's ambient show, and Violent Magic Orchestra from Japan.
concert20:00Saeid and Naghib Shanbehzadeh perform a concert blending traditional Iranian music from the Bushehr region with modern sounds. The father plays ney-anban while his son Naghib plays percussion.
theater18:00A puppet theatre performance about plants and growth by Teatteri Qo. Suitable for children aged 4 and up.
festival16:00Middle East Jam Festival takes over Stoa's square during the Night of the Arts with music, dance, performance, and film, plus free workshops and a puppet theatre show.
festival16:00A welcome event for newcomers to Helsinki featuring local services, activities, and leisure opportunities. The programme offers practical information and community engagement for all ages.
other16:00The Skateboard Package offers skateboarding instruction at Stoa Square. Professional instructor Petrus Marttila teaches the basics and skateboard culture rules - equipment can be borrowed on site.
theater10:30A puppet theatre production about plants and growth for young audiences. The performance introduces natural plants and invites children to make their own observations and discoveries.
theater18:00Marja Rautakorpi and the young flamenco group Adelante present an experimental dance work exploring humanity and community. Criaturas, the result of a year-long collaboration, examines why we separate individuals when we need each other.
festival13:00Emeka Ogboh's danfo bus arrives at Stoa's plaza with music, conversations, and Afro-Nordic perspectives on mobility and community.
other17:00Re-Charge is a physical dance installation by the international group Muddiverse that explores energy production through movement, music, and trance-like repetition. The work lasts 45 minutes.
exhibition12:00Photographer Mila meets the public at Stoa's gallery during summer 2026. A relaxed event to view photographs of everyday Helsinki and discuss art and the city's character.
festival16:00Free workshop where young people design and create their own signs for the Pride parade. Stoa's Youth Pride Festival also features a print workshop, pin workshop, circus activities, live music, and free food.
other(43 days)
Free partner dance classes on Stoa's square every Wednesday. Sessions suit both beginners and experienced dancers and adapt to participants' skill levels.
other15:15Author Heidi Airaksinen leads a writing workshop for rainbow seniors with autobiographical exercises and discussions about queer experiences. Her blind dog Dandy is also present.
other10:00Rainbow families sing, recite nursery rhymes, and read first books together in three languages. After the programme, there is time for socialising and coffee.
lecture(75 days)
The Elonkirjon kaupunki project presents alternative plans to protect city forests from development. The Helsinki event brings together architects and residents to discuss the future of Stansvik and Kumpula.
other17:00A relaxing forest experience at Karhukallion: listen to acoustic music, poetry, and natural sounds from hammocks. Free and open to all.
lecture15:00An open discussion forum about forests and people's relationship with nature, held as part of the Relationships with Nature exhibition programme at Stoa.
other14:00Clay sculpting workshop where you create your own bugs and creatures from red clay. Your finished work can be taken home or left as part of a growing art installation.
festival12:00Street culture event featuring graffiti, DJ activities, dance, and live music for hip hop enthusiasts. The programme includes the Will Funk for Food performance, The FUNK YARD dance jams, and Pass-The-Aux demo listening session.
exhibition(59 days)
Mila Milax's photographic exhibition explores Helsinki's identity, people, and urban spaces. The show runs at Stoa from June through August.
exhibition(80 days)
A multidisciplinary exhibition exploring nature's cycles and humanity's relationship with the environment. Opening on Helsinki Day, Friday 12.6. from 17:00 to 19:00 in Stoa's lower gallery.
festival17:00Helsinki Day at Stoa brings circus performances, workshops, and an art exhibition together. Blind Gut Company, Olli Vuorinen, Kalle Lehto, and other circus artists perform while audiences can try juggling, acrobatics, and other circus skills. Free admission.
theater18:00Porttiteatteri's documentary performance about the bodies, memories and strength of released prisoners and people with criminal backgrounds. A journey exploring how one dares to trust each other and rise again.
other(5 days)
The Adventure Art School travels by cargo bike to east Helsinki playgrounds. Children and families can freely experiment with playful art, draw and play.
other(10 days)
Free textile design summer school for children aged 9-13 at Stoa. Led by Rosa Tolnov Clausen, students learn the fundamentals of textile design and create their own textile works using table looms and sewing machines.
exhibition(98 days)
This exhibition encourages children and young people to experiment creatively with natural and recycled materials. The furniture and details were created by art students from Espoo and Forssa.