Events and Sights
See and Experience in Northern Saimaa
The events and sights of Heinävesi, Liperi, and Rääkkylä invite travelers to discover and linger. Village festivals, traditional dances, and summer theaters are living proof of community spirit and shared traditions. Small specialty museums and exhibitions tell stories of local history and the valuable heritage of the villages.
Orthodox culture is strongly present in North Karelia: in Heinävesi you’ll find Finland’s only Orthodox monasteries – Lintula Convent and Valamo Monastery – both warmly welcoming visitors. Northern Saimaa offers sights and experiences, the vibrant and authentic life of the Finnish countryside.
Village Festivals and Cultural Events
In Heinävesi, Liperi, and Rääkkylä, village festivals and cultural events bring people together. They reflect the Karelian spirit of hospitality and rural traditions – welcoming visitors to join the celebration.
Experience Events in Liperi
Liperi’s village center comes alive in summer with events such as a Truck Meeting, vintage vehicle gatherings and machinery exhibitions. In summer 2026, the engines will roar again!
Kihaus Folk – Modern Karelian Spirit
Kihaus Folk is a festival that combines diverse folk music, themes of Karelian culture, and family-friendly programs. The festival celebrates its 35th anniversary on July 10–12, 2026.
Kukkakuhhaus – A Village Festival in Bloom
Held in August, Kukkakuhhaus attracts thousands of flower enthusiasts. The highlight is a one-hectare flower field. Smaller events and concerts are also organized throughout summer 2026.
Sights and Attractions
Small museums, local exhibitions, and natural landmarks showcase the heritage of North Karelia and Northern Saimaa. From ridges and rapids to village traditions, there is always something inspiring to discover.
LIPERI
Lammu – A Journey Back to Grandma’s Summers
The courtyard of Lammu breathes history. The exhibition in the old barn loft showcases rural household items, handicrafts, vehicles, and dishes. The barn also houses the host’s pride and joy: an impressive model railway.
LIPERI
Ollila’s Barns and Courtyard
The barns at Ollila house a handicraft shop, a flea market, and a home museum. Each summer, the arrival of sheep is eagerly awaited by both the hosts and visitors. A small playground is available for children.
LIPERI
Rural Museum Tähkä
A nostalgic journey into the countryside’s past. The museum complex includes the Tähkä Hall, Tuomela’s cottage, the old municipal house, a windmill, a threshing barn, a pharmacy museum, the Enwald home museum, and an agricultural museum – a truly remarkable collection.
RÄÄKKYLÄ
War History on the Salpa Trail
The Salpa Line is a World War II defense line in the Oravisalo archipelago. Some of the historic structures have been restored, and the area features, for example, a dugout shelter and a dugout sauna. The 3 km Salpa Trail also introduces visitors to the shoreline’s natural environment.
RÄÄKKYLÄ
Koivuniemi Mosaic Exhibition
Patrick Ward, the host of the house, is an Irish visual artist who created Koivuniemi’s unique mosaic exhibition. If you wish, you can also see how mosaics are made.
RÄÄKKYLÄ
Toivo – the Scrap Horse in Rasivaara Village
The impressive horse sculpture Toivo greets travelers along the Hammaslahti–Kitee road. Made from scrap metal and inspired by the local villagers, the work symbolizes hope and reflects Rääkkylä’s heritage as a region of horses and farming. The artist behind the piece is Patrick Ward.
Monasteries and Spiritual Heritage
In Heinävesi, you’ll find Finland’s only Orthodox monasteries: Lintula Convent and Valamo Monastery. Both warmly welcome visitors, offering peace, history, and a unique window into spiritual culture.
HEINÄVESI
Lintula Convent – Connection to Nature and Self
The Lintula Orthodox Convent is a meeting place for travelers seeking peace and a connection with nature. Everyone is welcome – just as they are. In summer, the convent offers a guesthouse, a café, and a shop.
HEINÄVESI
Valamo Monastery – Space for New Thoughts
The Orthodox monastery invites you to explore cultural heritage, stay overnight, and take part in courses, concerts, and theme evenings throughout the year. Summer is brightened by guided sheep tours and cruises.
HEINÄVESI
Ancient Traces in Heinävesi
In Heinävesi, ancient times are still within reach. The area is home to signs of settlement dating back to the Stone Age, caves, rock paintings, and fascinating stories. Visitors can explore the sites independently with the help of a map, in addition to local events.
Events in Heinävesi, Liperi and Rääkkylä
Although most events are in Finnish, they can still offer you new experiences and unique encounters.