Helsinki October 2026: Top Things to Do

October 2026 is packed with things to see and do in Helsinki, from much-loved annual events such as the Baltic Herring Market and the Helsinki Book Fair to concerts, club nights, exhibitions and cultural performances across the city.

Once again, Misaij has rounded up the month’s highlights in one handy guide. Below, you’ll find our picks for the biggest events in Helsinki in October 2026, along with exhibitions and museums, ballet and opera, theatre and dance, live music and club nights. We’ve also included useful week-by-week event listings to make planning your month a little easier.

As always, we recommend checking the organiser’s website before heading out, as dates, schedules and programme details are subject to change.

Read on for our guide to the best events and things to do in Helsinki in October 2026.

Helsinki October 2026 | Events

Festivals, Fairs and City Events
Opera, Ballet, Theatre and Dance
Exhibitions and Museums
Club Calendar Helsinki October 2026
Week 40: Thu 1 Oct – Sun 4 Oct 2026
Week 41: 5–11 Oct 2026
Week 42: 12–18 Oct 2026
Week 43: 19–25 Oct 2026
Week 44: Mon 26 Oct – Sat 31 Oct 2026

Festivals, Fairs and City Events

• Helsinki Baltic Herring Market, Market Square, 4–10 October. Market stalls are open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, with the restaurant area open from 11 am to 7 pm. In 2026, the event will place an even greater emphasis on Finnish archipelago culture and experiences, with a special programme planned for the final day. Free admission.
• The Carnival of Light, Linnanmäki, 9–18 October. The amusement park is transformed into an autumn celebration of light, music and entertainment. This year, the opening night on 9 October will feature a new adults-only K18 event from 4 pm to 10 pm, headlined by Maija Vilkkumaa. On other days, the park is generally open Mon–Fri from 2 pm to 10 pm and Sat–Sun from 1 pm to 10 pm. Area admission €25.
• Annantalo Autumn Break & Children’s Book Festival, 10–17 October. A week of mostly free activities for children and families, including workshops, films, storybook characters, a disco and performances throughout the autumn school holiday.
• Tervasaari Barrel Race & Traditional Sailing Ship Day, 10–11 October. On Saturday, traditional sailing ships compete in a race off the coast of Helsinki, while on Sunday visitors can meet the vessels and their crews in the harbour. Free admission.
• Vintage Market Arabia, 11 October, 11 am–6 pm, Energiasali (Energy Hall) at the Museum of Technology. Browse vintage and second-hand finds, design, art and collectables. Free admission.
• I love me, Messukeskus Helsinki, 16–18 October. A major event dedicated to beauty, fashion, wellness, health and fitness. Open Fri 10 am–8 pm and Sat–Sun 10 am–6 pm.
• Retro Helsinki, Cable Factory, 17–18 October. A weekend of vintage finds, design, collectables and all things retro. Open Sat 10 am–5 pm and Sun 10 am–4 pm.
• Helsinki Book Fair, Messukeskus Helsinki, 22–25 October. Meet authors, join discussions and explore literature through hundreds of talks, events and programme highlights. Open Thu–Sat 10 am–8 pm and Sun 10 am–6 pm.
• Wine & Food, Messukeskus Helsinki, 22–25 October. Held alongside the Helsinki Book Fair and included with the same admission ticket, the event brings together food, drinks, tastings and producers. Areas serving alcohol are restricted to visitors aged 18 and over.

Opera, Ballet and Dance

Finnish National Opera and Ballet

• Aida ends its current run on 1 October.
• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs continues until 16 October, with October performances on at least 3, 7, 9, 13 and 16 October.
• Hamlet, a new ballet production, premieres on 2 October, with several performances throughout the month. Further performances are scheduled for January and February 2027.
• Le nozze di Figaro opens on 22 October.
• Dracula opens on 30 October. The premiere weekend also includes a special Halloween night, with pre-show and after-show events and guests encouraged to dress for the occasion.

Dance House Helsinki

• Johanna Nuutinen + Collaborators: Élixir de Mer, 30 September–3 October
• Elina Pirinen: Ghosts of Rosegarden, 6–10 October
• Sivuun Ensemble & Kallo Collective: Neighbour, 8–10 October
• Sivuun Ensemble & Jarmo Saari Republic: Invitation to Dance, 10 October
• Anna Eriksson – Anniversary Concerts, 17–18 October
• Children’s Saturday, 24 October
• Alpo Aaltokoski Company: Three Solos, 27–31 October

Exhibitions and Museums | Helsinki October 2026

Amos Rex

Amos Rex is closed for an exhibition changeover from 7 September to 13 October. The Other Side of the Mountain opens on 14 October and runs until 21 March 2027. The exhibition brings together 11 artists, nearly 60 works and three new commissions, and forms part of Southnord Artfest 2026. The free Dansbana! dance installation at Lasipalatsi Square continues until 4 October.

Kiasma

• A Dream in Four Colours, until 10 January 2027.
• Emma Ainala: Like a Prayer, 9 October 2026–14 February 2027.
• Free Admission Friday, 2 October, 10 am–8 pm.
• Entanglement: I am a tree, I am a mouth, at Kiasma Theatre on 24, 25, 28 and 30 October; a multidisciplinary performance installation.

HAM Helsinki Art Museum

Antti Tolvi’s For Organ and Pause, which opened in September, continues until 10 January 2027. Petri Ala-Maunus and Mauno Markkula: Blazing Sky runs until 31 January 2027, while Tove Jansson Gallery: Artist Family Jansson is on view until 10 January 2027.

Two new exhibitions open on 9 October: Leena Luostarinen: Misfit and Emma Talbot: You Are Not the Centre. HAM also hosts guided exhibition tours throughout October, as well as an art workshop for families on 10 October, focusing on making reliefs from natural clay.

Ateneum

• Modern Classics: Elga Sesemann, 18 August 2026–8 August 2027.
• Collection: A Question of Time, Ateneum’s permanent collection exhibition.
• Arcana Borealis – Northern Women and Esotericism, opening 23 October and continuing until 28 February 2027.
• Workshops and guided tours take place throughout the month, along with a Helsinki Book Fair pre-event on 14 October.

Sinebrychoff Art Museum

• The Peacock in the Garden – Mathias Withoos and Rome, 24 September 2026–10 January 2027.
• Anna Sinebrychoff – Ahead of Her Time, until 29 August 2027.
• Guided tours throughout the month.
• Free admission eveing on 30 October, 3–6 pm.

The Finnish Museum of Photography

Two new exhibitions open on 9 October: The Lure of the Image and Iiris Elena Rusi: Our hearts can break too. The permanent exhibition Viewfinder continues.

On 10 October, the museum hosts a drop-in darkroom and pinhole camera workshop from 1 to 4 pm. The Cable Museums also hold a free admission evening on 28 October from 4 to 7 pm.

Kunsthalle Helsinki, Didrichsen Art Museum and Architecture & Design Museum

At Kunsthalle Helsinki, Alia Ali: In Light of… continues until 1 November. Didrichsen Art Museum presents Elin Danielson-Gambogi: Gazes and Encounters throughout October.

At Architecture & Design Museum, Aalto Design – Shapes of Wellbeing, Escape to Moominvalley and Juha Vehmaanperä: Craft Punk continue throughout the month. Admission is free on the evening of 27 October.

More Ongoing Exhibitions

• Barley Porridge and Crispbread – The Story of Finnish School Meals, Hotel and Restaurant Museum, until 29 August 2027.
• Soile Yli-Mäyry – Broken Hands Exhibition, Finlandia Hall, until 30 October.
• Veikko Ruuskanen: Boiler Rooms of the Imagination Machines That Never Were, Malmitalo, until 17 October.
• Creative Nerd 1996–2026: From modems to the meme economy, until 17 October 2026, Valssaamo, Lobby B, Cable Factory. Free admission.

Club Calendar Helsinki October 2026

Tavastia: Josén Pimeä Puoli 2.10., Minttu 3.10., Brother Firetribe 8.10., AHTI 9.10., Happoradio 10.10., Ankea Presents: HAKEN (UK) 11.10., Hardcore Superstar (SWE) 13.10., Zero Nine 14.10., helmi marleena: album release, Kastehelmi 15.10., Moon Shot 16.10., SMC ”Skatemaniacs Crew” -30 years 17.–18.10., Banned From Utopia (USA), Mavon Safia 21.10., Humanity’s Last Breath 22.10., Litku Klemetti and Lyttä & Tohtori Getto 23.10., VIIVI 24.10., Razorlight (UK) + Free Carmen 25.10., Gloryhammer – 5th Album Release Tour 2026 28.10., Notkea Rotta 30.10. and Nyrkkitappelu + Emodisko Halloween Special 31.10.2026.

Kuudes Linja: Nicole + BISA and Soli KPOP CLUB – LIGHTSTICK PYJAMA PARTY 2.10.; Repo Woman (album release) + Säädöt + Bad Valentines 3.10. ja KUTONEN GOES 2000s & 2010s; Mountain Goats (US) + Craig Finn (US) 5.10.; Idän Ihmeet 7.10.; Krallice (US) + saint seer 8.10.; Shere Khan + Falling Pyramids +  Lilith & The Wild Flowers 9.10.; Bob Malmström + Jästinfektion + Fyrk 10.10.; Mykki Blanco (US) + Orvokki 15.10.; Pihalla (album release) + kaio ja Neptune Night 16.10.; Jere Garcia + Nieminen & Litmanen 17.10.; Alexandra Căpitănescu (RO) 21.10.; Helsinki Synth City 23.10.; Pedro (album release) + Victor Nordis 24.10.; Ottelia Kuriton (album release) 28.10.; Type O Negative/Depeche Mode -tribute night 30.10.; Scales + Lemmenpyssyt + Tomi Puukko and Jytäpojat 31.10.2026.

Ääniwalli: Carbon Based 2.10.; Sonic Rites Presents: Agrimonia (SE), Kürøishi, Vivisektio and Club Zero 3.10.; We Jazz presents: WOLF EYES (US), Lichen Gumbo 5.10.; Orion 9.10.; HAVOK (US) & supports: Xonor (CH), Eradikated and Test Pressing # 61: Speedy J – HYBRID DJ/LIVE (NL), Om Unit (UK) 10.10.; FURY: Cara Elizabeth (DE), Johannes Schuster (DE), Mika Heggemann (DE) 16.10.; Lost Society & HOKKA + Support: St. Aurora 17.10.; MODUL: YANAMASTE (GE), CONNTEX (DE), ALLFIVE 23.10.; SOLI CLUB PRESENTS: SHUFFLE PLAY HALLOWEEN 30.10.2026.

Post Bar: Interlink 3 Years 2.10.; Club2k 3.10.; Kyra Khaldi (NL), Kyle Bower (CA), Saffet & Freakycent 9.10.; Denzel & Joni DJ 10.10.; Post Bar Club Night: Ogazón (LU) Katerina Sagwa 17.10.; Miia Magia, Ozan, Ronja 23.10.; All night long: Sansibar 24.10.; Halloween Half-Marathon 31.10.

Korjaamo (performances across different halls): Sir Elwood Duo 1.10., Aatulove 2.10., Emma Salokoski & Jarmo Saari, Room Full of Hendrix 3.10., JJ (AT) 6.10., Töölö Jam 7.10., Maukka Perusjätkä, Kalevauva, Lempi Elo, Viive, Nössö Nova Show 9.10., Musta lammas, Rebekka Holi, Kalevauva 10.10., Ramithawi 14.10., Hulda Huima, Tiiu Helinä 15.10., Mood Suprim (album release) feat: Asa, Ulla Pirttijärvi, Hanna-Maaria Kiprianoff, Ulpu Mattus & Hilja Grönfors 16.10., DJ Kridlokk 17.10., Veronica Fusaro (CH) 21.10., Kumikameli, Sehr Schnell, Vihan Muna 22.10., Heikki Hela, Eidetic Dreams, Eetu Riikonen, Knipi 23.10., Ilta, Hiljaiset Levyt 40 years: Hiljaiset All Stars, Dave Treganna Band, Pojat, Alivaltiosihteeri, Rekami 24.10., Songhoy Blues (ML), Nektar (SE) 29.10., Jemina, Suurlähettiläät 30.10., Brymir – What We Leave Behind Tour 2026, Omnivortex 31.10. 2026.

G Livelab: Marius Neset Quartet (NO) 2.10.; Timo Lassy 8.10.; Jesca Hoop (US) + Bus 63 9.10.; Aavikko + O Samuli A 10.10.; Jason Moran (US) 12.10.; GA-20 (US) 15.10.; Wigwam Revisited 17.10.; Airaniemi/Karjalainen & Heli Hartikainen 21.10.; Laura Moisio 22.10.; Vilma Jää 23.10.; Absoluuttinen Nollapiste 29.–30.10.

Koko Jazz Club: Grand Opening: 3.10.; Arttu Takalo Super Group 5.10.; KJC Super Jam feat. Holger Marjamaa  13.10.; KOKO All Star Big Band feat. Jukkis Uotila 14.10.; Tom Ollendorff Trio (UK/SWE) 17.10.; Jenny Robson Quartet feat. Holger Marjamaa 24.10.; Peela 31.10.

Helsinki October 2026 | Events & Things To Do

Week 40: Thu 1 Oct – Sun 4 Oct 2026

Thursday 1 October 2026

• Art & Wine Tasting, Meilahti Art Hall, 5–7 pm.
• Manala Afterwork Jazz feat. Wade Mikkola, Manala Restaurant & Bar, 5–7 pm.
• Aavistus Festival 2026, a biennial festival of audiovisual art and VJ culture, running from 30 September to 4 October.
• Heureka Thursday Evening, admission €10 from 3–8 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Nylon Beat, Helsinki Ice Hall. The first October show in the duo’s major concert series.
• Aida, Finnish National Opera at 7 pm – the final performance of the production.
• Future Palace (GER), As Everything Unfolds (ENG) & Luna Kills, On the Rocks, doors at 7 pm.
• Juho “Kihara” Pitkänen Jam, Storyville, 8 pm–midnight. Free admission.
• Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra: Sibelius 5, Musiikkitalo Concert Hall at 7 pm; pre-concert talk at 6.15 pm.

Friday 2 October 2026

• iik!week Horror Festival, Linnanmäki.
• Aavistus Festival 2026.
• Puotilan Kartano Halloweeks, 2 October–1 November.
• Kiasma Free Admission Day, 10 am–8 pm, with free accompanying programme.

Live Music & Performances

• Hamlet, premiere by the Finnish National Ballet.
• Nylon Beat – Extra Concert, Helsinki Ice Hall.
• Max Raabe & Palast Orchester: Night and Day, Finlandia Hall.
• Dead by April (SWE), Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: Mara Balls & Iris Kukka.
• Josén Pimeä Puoli, Tavastia.
• Kivesveto Go-Go, Möyhy-Veikot & God Given Ass, On the Rocks.
• Nicole & BISA, Kuudes Linja; later Soli KPOP Club – Lightstick Pyjama Party, 11.15 pm–4.30 am.
• Interlink 3 Years: Regent live, Deneux, Paula Koski & CEB, Post Bar.
• Marius Neset Quartet, G Livelab.
• Musiikkitalo: Aria Borealis singing competition semi-finals and free daytime programme.
• At Storyville: Visa Luttinen Piano Bar, Dionysian Band – The Doors Tribute and late-night party band Gebardi.

Saturday 3 October 2026

• Liquorice & Salmiak Festival, 10 am–6 pm, Wanha Satama.
• iik!week Horror Festival, Linnanmäki.
• Finland vs Albania, UEFA Nations League, 4 pm, Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
• Tokoinranta parkrun, free community event at 9.30 am.
• Aavistus Festival 2026, Korjaamo: audiovisual art, VJ culture and a late-night club programme.

Live Music & Performances

• Nylon Beat, Helsinki Ice Hall.
• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, Finnish National Opera at 2 pm.
• Max Raabe & Palast Orchester, Finlandia Hall.
• FCF Wrestling: Northern Queens, KULT, Kulttuuritalo, doors at 5 pm.
• Clarion Jazz: Manuel Dunkel, Vesa Ojaniemi & Lassi Kouvo, 5 pm, Clarion Hotel Helsinki.
• MINTTU, Tavastia.
• Block of Flats, Shakals, On the Rocks.
• Repo Woman Album Release, Säädöt, Bad Valentines, Kuudes Linja; later KUTONEN GOES 2000s & 2010s.
• Club2k: Yushh (UK), EMKAY & Nea2k, Post Bar.
• Grand Opening: Koko Jazz Club’s new Ullanlinna venue, 7–9 pm.
• Pauli Hanhiniemi: Sydän vasta puolillaan, Musiikkitalo at 6 pm.
• Atomirotta Lähiörundi 2026, Malmitalo at 7 pm.

Sunday 4 October 2026

• Liquorice & Salmiak Festival, 10 am–4 pm, Wanha Satama.
• iik!week Horror Festival, final day at Linnanmäki.
• Opening day of the Helsinki Baltic Herring Market, Market Square, 9 am–7 pm.
• Hakaniemi Farmers’ Market, Hakaniemi Market Square, 10 am–4 pm.
• Dansbana! at Lasipalatsi Square – the final day of the free urban dance installation.
• Aavistus Festival 2026.

Live Music & Performances

• Aria Borealis Final, Musiikkitalo at 6 pm.

Helsinki October 2026 | Events & Things To Do

Week 41: 5 Oct – 11 Oct 2026

Monday 5 October 2026

• Free Admission Day at Korkeasaari Zoo, 10 am–4 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• The Mountain Goats (US) + Craig Finn (US), Kuudes Linja.
• Arttu Takalo Super Group, Koko Jazz Club at 7 pm.

Tuesday 6 October 2026

• HIFK–TPS, Helsinki Ice Hall at 6.30 pm.
• Belarus–Finland, UEFA Nations League, 9.45 pm, Helsinki Olympic Stadium.

Live Music & Performances

• S/S Andania Brought Jazz to Finland – 100th Anniversary Concert, Savoy Theatre at 7 pm.
• Hamlet, Finnish National Ballet.
• Elina Pirinen: Ghosts of Rosegarden, Dance House Helsinki.
• JJ (AT): Act II – Into the Unknown Tour, Korjaamo.
• Kuudesta Kymmeneen, Semifinal.

Wednesday 7 October 2026

• IF Gnistan–FC Inter, Finnish Championship Series, Markku.fi Arena at 7 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, Finnish National Opera at 7 pm.
• Töölö Jam, Korjaamo, 7–10.30 pm. Free admission.
• Idän Ihmeet – Ylösnousemus 20 years, Kuudes Linja.
• Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon & Ava Bahari, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm. The venue also hosts the Aino Ackté 150th Anniversary programme and DIG. jazz events.

Thursday 8 October 2026

• Jokerit–HIFK, Helsinki ice hockey derby, Veikkaus Arena at 6.30 pm.
• Heureka Thursday Evening, admission €10 from 3–8 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Hamlet, Finnish National Ballet.
• Brother Firetribe, Tavastia.
• Krallice & saint seer, Kuudes Linja.
• Kanerva – Album Release & Pekka Nisu Solo, Semifinal.
• Juha Hostikka & Dallapé Orchestra, Savoy Theatre at 7 pm.
• At Musiikkitalo: Schubert x3, I, Elizabeth – A Monarch in Crisis, a Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra concert and DIG. jazz.
• Thursday Jam Session, Storyville, 8 pm–midnight. Free admission.
• Manala Afterwork Jazz, 5–7 pm.

Friday 9 October 2026

Friday 9 October is one of the busiest days in Helsinki’s October event calendar.

• Carnival of Light – adults-only 18+ Opening Night, Linnanmäki amusement park, 4–10 pm. Headliner: Maija Vilkkumaa.
• Helsinki Baltic Herring Market, Market Square.
• Helsinki Drink Festival Whiskey Edition 2026, 4–11 pm, Old Student House.
• Kiasma Date Friday, 5–8 pm.
• Koko kansan Leijonat exhibition opens at TAHTO Center for Finnish Sports Culture, Helsinki Olympic Stadium.
• At HAM, Leena Luostarinen: Misfit and Emma Talbot: You Are Not the Centre open. Emma Talbot gives an English-language artist tour at 1 pm.
• Iiris Elena Rusi: Our hearts can break too opens at the Finnish Museum of Photography.
• Emma Ainala: Like a Prayer opens at Kiasma.

Live Music & Performances

• Helsinki Experimental Series – Nomads Festival, Stoa, 7–10 pm: improvised music, dance and visual art.
• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, Finnish National Opera at 7 pm.
• AHTI, Tavastia.
• Konala Cartelli 25 Years & Voittajafiilis, On the Rocks.
• Jarkko Ahola – Hienoimmat ja suurimmat, Savoy Theatre at 7 pm.
• Ruoska & RiASA, KULT at Kulttuuritalo.
• At Storyville: Anssi Känsälä Duo, Leevi & Leavings Tribute and Brand New Classics.
• Oktoberfest, Rymy-Eetu.
• Shere Khan, Falling Pyramids & Lilith & Wild Flowers, Kuudes Linja.
• Orion – Homecoming Helsinki, Ääniwalli.
• Kyra Khaldi, Kyle Bower, Saffet & Freakycent, Post Bar.
• Jesca Hoop + Bus 63, G Livelab.

Saturday 10 October 2026

• Carnival of Light, Linnanmäki.
• Final day of the Helsinki Baltic Herring Market, Market Square.
• Tutankhamun – The Immersive Exhibition opens at Malmi Ice Hall.
• HAM Family Clay Relief Workshop, 12.30–2.30 pm.
• Tervasaari Barrel Race, a traditional sailing ship race, followed by an afternoon parade to the South Harbour.
• Opening of Annantalo’s Autumn Break Programme: Fiction or Fact event day, 11 am–2 pm.
• HIFK–KalPa, Helsinki Ice Hall at 6 pm.
• Haaga Run, 5K and 10K.
• Helsinki Drink Festival Whiskey Edition 2026, 3–11 pm, Old Student House.

Live Music & Performances

• Hamlet, Finnish National Ballet.
• The Music of Coldplay – Candlelight Concert, Bio Rex Lasipalatsi at 7 pm.
• Dad Harmony, Finlandia Hall.
• Happoradio, Tavastia.
• Von Hertzen Brothers 25 Years – Somewhere in the Middle, Musiikkitalo at 6 pm.
• Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny, Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: The Sideshows & Lovers Left Alive.
• Oktoberfest, Rymy-Eetu.
• Funeral & Shape of Despair, On the Rocks; later 80s Rocks Party.
• Bob Malmström, Jästinfektion & Fyrk, Kuudes Linja.
• Havok, Xonor & Eradikated, Ääniwalli; also Test Pressing #61: Speedy J – Hybrid & Om Unit.
• Denzel Joni DJ, Post Bar.
• Aavikko & O Samuli A, G Livelab.

Sunday 11 October 2026

• Traditional Sailing Ship Day, harbour, 10 am–4 pm. Visitors can explore the vessels and meet their crews. Free admission.
• Vintage Market Arabia, Energy Hall at the Museum of Technology, 11 am–6 pm. Free admission.
• Carnival of Light continues at Linnanmäki.

Live Music & Performances

• Candlelight: The Music of Ennio Morricone, Bio Rex at 4 pm.
• Haken, Tavastia.
• At Musiikkitalo: Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra Sunday Concert: English Fantasies at 3 pm and Love & Redemption – From Strauss to Parsifal | Katajala & Horn at 7 pm.

Helsinki Events – October 2026

Week 42: 12–18 October 2026

During the autumn school holiday families can enjoy Puotilan Kartano Halloweeks, which runs throughout the week – an event suitable for the whole family, as is the Carnival of Light at Linnanmäki. Annantalo also organizes activities for families and children.

Monday 12 October 2026

Live Music & Performances

• Jason Moran, G Livelab.

Tuesday 13 October 2026

• How to Live Together in Sound? Towards Sonic Democracy, the closing symposium of a research project funded by the Kone Foundation, Musiikkitalo.

Live Music & Performances

• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, Finnish National Opera at 7 pm.
• Hardcore Superstar, Tavastia.
• Koko Jazz Club Super Jam, hosted by Holger Marjamaa, 6–9 pm.

Wednesday 14 October 2026

• Amos Rex reopens: The Other Side of the Mountain opens and continues until 21 March 2027.
• Cable Museums Family Day at the Theatre Museum, 11 am–4 pm.
• Art games for young children at Annantalo.

Live Music & Performances

• London Symphonic Rock Orchestra, Kulttuuritalo, doors at 6 pm.
• Mahler Chamber Orchestra, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm.
• Zero Nine, Tavastia.
• Sebastian Visa & Lida Hey, On the Rocks.
• Ramithawi – Album Release, Korjaamo.
• KOKO All Star Big Band feat. Jukkis Uotila, Koko Jazz Club at 7 pm.

Thursday 15 October 2026

• Art & Wine Tasting, Meilahti Art Hall, 5–7 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Irina: Acoustic Evening, Savoy Theatre at 7 pm.
• Wardruna – World Tour Part II, Finlandia Hall.
• Mahler Chamber Orchestra, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm.
• Manala Afterwork Jazz, 5 pm.
• helmi marleena & Kastehelmi, Tavastia.
• Mykki Blanco (US) & Orvokki, Kuudes Linja.
• Daze Dolls, The Feral Kids & Dawn Noir, On the Rocks.
• Hulda Huima – Album Release & Tiiu Helinä, Korjaamo.
• GA-20 (US), G Livelab.

Friday 16 October 2026

• I love me begins at Messukeskus Helsinki, 10 am–8 pm.
• AnnanHouse Disco: Fairytale Day, Annantalo, 4–7 pm.
• Grand Vin Helsinki 2026 – an event for lovers of quality wines, Old Student House, 4-9 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs, final performance at the Finnish National Opera, 7 pm.
• Laid Back – Sunshine Reggae Night, Finlandia Hall.
• Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Fabien Gabel & Veronika Eberle, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm.
• PIAF! The Show, Savoy Theatre at 7 pm.
• Musamimmien Day Showcase Night, Tiivistämö, 6–10 pm. Free admission and all ages.
• Insomnium, Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: Laulun lahja: Kauko Röyhkä, Maritta Kuula & Marko Haavisto.
• Moon Shot, Tavastia.
• Pagan Weekend, On the Rocks: Vermilia, Kallomäki and Folkrim.
• Pihalla – Album Release & kaio, Kuudes Linja; later Neptune Night Vol. 3 x Obsidian.
• FURY: Cara Elizabeth, Johannes Schuster & Mika Heggemann, Ääniwalli.
• Mood Suprim – Album Release, Korjaamo, with guests including Asa and Ulla Pirttijärvi.

Saturday 17 October 2026

• I love me, Messukeskus Helsinki, 10 am–6 pm.
• Retro Helsinki begins at the Cable Factory, 10 am–5 pm.
• Workshops at Annantalo.
• Stuntshow HELLsinki, Helsinki Ice Hall, showtime 6–8 pm.
• Grand Vin Helsinki 2026 – an event for lovers of quality wines, Old Student House, 4-8.30 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Anna Eriksson – Anniversary Concert, Dance House Helsinki.
• Michael Monroe Solo Acoustic, Vuotalo at 6 pm.
• PIAF! The Show, Savoy Theatre at 2 pm and 7 pm.
• SMC 30 Years, Tavastia.
• Pagan Weekend, On the Rocks: Hindarfjäll, Noiduin & Vetten Äpärät.
• Jere Garcia & Nieminen & Litmanen, Kuudes Linja.
• Lost Society & HOKKA + St Aurora, Ääniwalli.
• Ogazón, Katerina, Sagwa, Post Bar, 10 pm–6 am.
• DJ Kridlokk – UG SOLO 15V, Korjaamo.
• Tom Ollendorff Trio, Koko Jazz Club at 7 pm.
• Wigwam Revisited, G Livelab.

Sunday 18 October 2026

• I love me, final day, 10 am–6 pm.
• Light Carnival, final day at Linnanmäki.
• Retro Helsinki, Cable Factory, 10 am–4 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• PIAF! The Show, Savoy Theatre at 2 pm.
• Anna Eriksson – Anniversary Concert, Dance House Helsinki.
• SMC 30 Years, Tavastia, second concert.
• Helsinki Baroque Orchestra | C. P. E. Bach, Musiikkitalo Concert Hall at 4 pm.

Helsinki Events – October 2026

Week 43: 19–25 October 2026

Tuesday 20 October 2026

Live Music & Performances

• Dylan Moran – Looking for Trouble, stand-up, Kulttuuritalo.
• JAMMA JAMMA JAMIT, Semifinal. Free admission.

Wednesday 21 October 2026

• Guided Tour of the Opera House in English, 4.30 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Joe Bonamassa, Veikkaus Arena at 6.30 pm.
• Hamlet, Finnish National Ballet.
• Banned From Utopia & Mavon Safia, Tavastia.
• Scarlet, On the Rocks.
• Alexandra Căpitănescu, Kuudes Linja.
• Veronica Fusaro, Korjaamo.
• Airaniemi/Karjalainen & Heli Hartikainen, G Livelab.

Thursday 22 October 2026

• Helsinki Book Fair and Wine & Food begin at Messukeskus Helsinki, 10 am–8 pm.
• Kohina Film Festival, a short film festival for young filmmakers, Vuotalo at 5 pm.
• Heureka Thursday Evening, admission €10 from 3–8 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Le nozze di Figaro opens at the Finnish National Opera.
• Humanity’s Last Breath, Tavastia.
• Pauli Hanhiniemen Perunateatteri, On the Rocks, doors at 7 pm.
• Laura Moisio, G Livelab.
• At Korjaamo: Kumikameli, Sehr Schnell and Vihan Muna.

Friday 23 October 2026

• Helsinki Book Fair and Wine & Food continue, 10 am–8 pm.
• Arcana Borealis – Northern Women and Esotericism opens at Ateneum. An exhibition-related seminar takes place from 10 am to 3 pm.
• Halloween 2026 Horror Event in Helsinki, an immersive 18+ event at the former Meilahti Hospital, Tukholmankatu 10.

Live Music & Performances

• Hamlet, Finnish National Ballet.
• Jiri Nikkinen Beatles Tribute, Storyville.
• Swan Lake – British Festival Ballet, Finlandia Hall.
• Kai Hahto – 35 Years of Music, Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: Amuri – Album Release & Liisa Akimof.
• Litku Klemetti, Tavastia; later the same evening Lyttä & Tohtori Getto.
• Helsinki Synth City: Nightcall – A Kavinsky Tribute, Kuudes Linja.
• MODUL: Yanamaste, Conntex & Allfive, Ääniwalli.
• Miia Magia, Ozan & Ronja, Post Bar.
• Silmien Takana: Vilma Jää – Loitsut, G Livelab.

Saturday 24 October 2026

• Helsinki Book Fair and Wine & Food continue, 10 am–8 pm.
• Children’s Saturday at Dance House Helsinki, with family activities and workshops.
• IF Gnistan–AC Oulu, Finnish Championship Series, Markku.fi Arena at 5 pm.
• Helsinki Halloween Run, 5K and 10K, plus Kids Run Helsinki Halloween.
• Halloween 2026 Horror Event in Helsinki, an immersive 18+ event at the former Meilahti Hospital, Tukholmankatu 10.

Live Music & Performances

• Entanglement: I am a tree, I am a mouth, Kiasma Theatre at 3 pm.
• Jenni Vartiainen – Vedenalaista, Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: 10 Years of The Circuit: Prolix.
• Swan Lake – British Festival Ballet, Finlandia Hall.
• VIIVI, Tavastia.
• Turmion Kätilöt – Colossal Disco, Helsinki Ice Hall at 6 pm, with SKYND and Business City.
• Official Turmion Kätilöt – The Colossal After Party, On the Rocks from 11 pm, DJ Henryfied.
• Earlier at On the Rocks: For My Pain… & Scars of Solitude, doors at 8 pm.
• Pedro – Album Release & Victor Nordis, Kuudes Linja.
• Sansibar – All Night Long, Post Bar.
• Jenny Robson Quartet feat. Holger Marjamaa, Koko Jazz Club at 7 pm.

Sunday 25 October 2026

• Final day of the Helsinki Book Fair and Wine & Food, Messukeskus Helsinki, 10 am–6 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Entanglement: I am a tree, I am a mouth, Kiasma Theatre at 3 pm.
• Razorlight & Free Carmen, Tavastia.

Helsinki Events – October 2026

Week 44: Mon 26 Oct – Sat 31 Oct 2026

Monday 26 October 2026

Live Music & Performances

• Amon Amarth, Helsinki Ice Hall at 5.30 pm, with Orbit Culture and Soilwork.
• Zucchero, Kulttuuritalo.
• UMO Helsinki Ensemble – Jimmy Giuffre 3, Savoy Theatre lunchtime concert at noon.

Tuesday 27 October 2026

• Free Evening at Architecture & Design Museum, 4–8 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Behemoth & Dimmu Borgir – In League With Satan Tour 2026, Helsinki Ice Hall at 6 pm.
• Alpo Aaltokoski Company: Three Solos opens at Dance House Helsinki.
• Rhapsody in Blue & Dvořák – Organ as Orchestra, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm.

Wednesday 28 October 2026

• Free Evening at the Cable Museums, 4–7 pm.

Live Music & Performances

• Benjamin Ingrosso – WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?, Veikkaus Arena at 7.30 pm.
• Sleaford Mods, Kulttuuritalo.
• Entanglement: I am a tree, I am a mouth, Kiasma Theatre at 6 pm.
• At Musiikkitalo: Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra: Return of the Heroes at 7 pm, an open dress rehearsal in the morning, and a Human Beat concert by the Sibelius Academy Choir and Merel Martens.
• Gloryhammer – 5th Album Release Tour, Tavastia.
• Ottelia Kuriton – Album Release, Kuudes Linja.

Thursday 29 October 2026

Live Music & Performances

• Vesala – Laulumailla, Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: Olga Myko.
• Nektar (SE) and, as a separate event at Korjaamo the same evening, Songhoy Blues (ML).
• Annieeva – EP Release, Semifinal.
• Absoluuttinen Nollapiste – Extra Concert, G Livelab.
• När Baba faller i poolen är kl. 23.47, premiere at Lilla Teatern.
• Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra: Return of the Heroes, Musiikkitalo.
• Munx Gregoriana: Game Music Gregoriana, featuring music from game series including Final Fantasy, The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, Halo and World of Warcraft, Temppeliaukio Church at 7 pm.

Friday 30 October 2026

October in Helsinki heads into its final weekend with a packed Halloween programme.

• Heureka Halloween 2026, an adults-only 18+ evening.
• Puotilan Kartano Halloweeks, 2 October–1 November. The manor grounds are transformed into a light park. The family-friendly event is open on weekdays from 3–9.30 pm and weekends from noon–9.30 pm.
• Final day of Soile Yli-Mäyry – Broken Hands Exhibition at Finlandia Hall.
• Notkea Rotta, Tavastia.

Live Music & Performances

• Dracula, premiere by the Finnish National Ballet. The Finnish National Opera also hosts a Halloween programme before the performance from 6–7 pm and after the show from approximately 9.15–11.30 pm, with DJ SEBEN and themed food and drinks.
• Kaija Koo – Tuuleen piirretyt vuodet, Veikkaus Arena at 6.30 pm.
• Vesala – Laulumailla, second night at Kulttuuritalo; at KULT: Robyn Hitchcock + support.
• Entanglement: I am a tree, I am a mouth, Kiasma Theatre at 6 pm.
• Free Evening at Sinebrychoff Art Museum, 3–6 pm.
• Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Anja Bihlmaier & Sergei Krylov, Musiikkitalo at 7 pm.
• Hype Å Laxxxative plays Type O Negative + Depressed Load plays Depeche Mode, Kuudes Linja.
• SOLI CLUB: Shuffle Play Halloween, Ääniwalli.
• Jemina – Album Release and, as a separate event, Suurlähettiläät, Korjaamo.
• YOUNGHEARTED, Semifinal.
• Absoluuttinen Nollapiste, G Livelab.

Saturday 31 October 2026 – Halloween

• Heureka Halloween 2026, family event.
• Puotilan Kartano Halloweeks, family event.

Live Music & Performances

• Helsinki Harps Folk Group Halloween Céilí, Korjaamo, doors at 7 pm; later Brymir & Omnivortex.
• Yamato – The Drummers of Japan, Kulttuuritalo.
• YOUNGHEARTED, Semifinal.
• Peela, Koko Jazz Club at 7 pm.
• Three Solos, Dance House Helsinki.
• Nyrkkitappelu & Flippipuisto, Tavastia; later Emodisko Halloween Special.
• Kekrikarnevaalit Kutosella: Scales, Lemmenpyssyt & Tomi Puukko ja Jytäpojat, Kuudes Linja.
• Post Bar Halloween Half-Marathon, doors at 10 pm, with the programme continuing well into the following morning.