Pakanafestarit isn’t just another festival, it’s a full-on dive into the world of Nordic traditions, myths and folklore. You’ll be surrounded by stories of old gods, nature spirits and ancestral wisdom that still echo in Finnish culture today. The whole weekend is designed to celebrate and revive these traditions in a way that feels both authentic and alive. Whether you’re deeply into pagan spirituality or just curious about the roots of local culture, it’s a chance to step into a different world for a couple of days.

Music has always been at the heart of Pakanafestarit, and this year’s program is more vibrant and diverse than ever before. Folk legends Värttinä will fill the hall with their trademark vocal harmonies and powerful reinterpretations of tradition, showing why they’ve been a cornerstone of Finnish folk for decades. On the heavier end, Havukruunu will unleash their pagan metal fury, weaving raw riffs with an atmosphere that feels both primal and majestic. The theatrical folk ensemble Kallomäki was one of the absolute highlights last year, so no wonder they’re bringing them back. They promise a true spectacle, revisiting their debut album in full with elaborate costumes and stagecraft that blur the line between concert and performance art.

For something more mystical, Rauni will conjure up soundscapes inspired by ancient Karelian myths, blending folk rock with psychedelic textures in a way that feels timeless and fresh. Ethno-folk violinist Tuomas Rounakari will bring his deep knowledge of ritual songs and rare traditions collected from Siberia, turning his set into both a concert and a journey through story and history. On a more meditative note, Karri Korpi will let the hypnotic tones of handpan and percussion wash over the crowd, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounding and otherworldly.

The line-up doesn’t stop there: The Gallows Dance will bring darker folk flavors steeped in ritual and mood, while Ilkka Heinonen explores ancient instruments like the jouhikko with strikingly modern sensitivity. With Ínkar, audiences can expect a unique blend of indigenous sounds and pagan spirit, and projects like Nest and Pääskylä will add yet more texture and variety, ensuring that from start to finish, the musical journey at Pakanafestarit 2025 will be as wide-ranging as it is unforgettable.

Check out the whole line-up and schedule here.

This isn’t a one-track festival with only music on the menu. You’ll find workshops on ancient crafts, lectures that make you see myths in a new light, fire and light performances to dazzle the senses, and rituals to experience together. Want to learn something, get creative, or just sit back and watch something spectacular? Pakanafestarit makes space for all of that. It’s a weekend where curiosity and openness reward you with new insights and unforgettable moments.

The Dipoli building in Espoo is becoming the true home of Pakanafestarit, and 2025 takes full advantage of it. From the big Kaleva Hall hosting the major concerts and rituals, to smaller cozy rooms perfect for workshops or intimate talks, there’s a place for every kind of program. Everything is easier to find, more comfortable to enjoy, and still close to Helsinki with great transport links. Think of it as a mythic gathering in a modern, convenient setting.

One of the best reasons to go? The people. Last year drew a lot of people in to make the trip to Pakanafestarit, and the energy of so many like-minded souls in one place is something you really feel. There’s a strong sense of respect, openness and belonging, whether you’re a seasoned practitioner, an artist, or just someone curious about the theme. The mix of music, market, ritual and conversation creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that sticks with you long after the event is over.

Pakanafestarit is known for its massive vendor area, and apparently it’s growing again this year. More than 100 stalls fill Dipoli with crafts, books, ritual tools, natural remedies, artworks, tattoos and body decorations. It’s the kind of marketplace where you’ll stumble upon something you didn’t even know you needed until you saw it. Whether you’re shopping for something spiritual, decorative, or just unique, this is the perfect place to discover it.

Get prepared and find a list of all the vendors right here.

This year’s “Noitavainot” (Witch Hunts) exhibition is a standout: an interactive way to explore one of the darker chapters of history, where you can step into the shoes of someone accused of witchcraft. Alongside that, the communal opening and closing rituals create a strong shared experience. Add in fire shows and other atmospheric performances, and you get something that feels closer to a living, breathing cultural happening than just a festival.

Pakanafestarit is designed for everyone. Kids under 12 get in free, youth tickets are discounted, and accessibility is taken seriously with free entry for assistants. Families can spend a day together exploring myths and crafts, while those looking for a spiritual or musical escape can dive deeper into the program. It’s rare to find an event that blends inclusivity with such a strong, immersive theme, making it a festival where all generations feel welcome.