FITCHBURG — Music, food, culture and community will come together at Saima Park when the Finnish Center hosts its annual Kesajuhla festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, at 67 Scott Road.
The festival, whose name simply translates to “summer celebration” will offer visitors an opportunity to experience Finnish traditions while enjoying a day of entertainment, local history and family-friendly activities.
Throughout the day, guests can enjoy performances by the Fitchburg State University Community Orchestra and the Oivan Ilo bringing both classical and folk music to the park. The Revontulet Folk Dancers will perform and will invite the audience to join in.
Festival artist Betty Syvari will exhibit her finely crafted Finnish gnomes (“tonttu”) each with its own personality and interest.
“A retired elementary school teacher, Betty hopes to host a gnome-making workshop at Saima, perhaps in the fall,” said Lorna Sulin, board member of the Finnish Center. “She is also working on writing a children’s book based on her mother’s childhood in Finland.”
The event’s speakers will reflect on both personal journeys and the community’s history.
Saija Laurla will share her presentation titled “How Life Changed: Moving from Helsinki to Central Massachusetts” which will offer insight and humor into adapting to a new home while maintaining cultural connections.
“Saija teaches Finnish language courses and runs baking workshops at Saima,” Sulin added.
Tuomas Mard will talk about the contributions of his late mother, Maija Mard, a past president and dedicated supporter of the Finnish Center.
Festival goers can sample traditional Finnish breads and pastries, enjoy hot and cold beverages, or purchase a chicken barbecue dinner. Hot dogs and chips will also be available.
Outdoor games, a chess tournament, basket raffle, membership information table and announcements of scholarship winners will round out the day’s activities.
The Raivaaja Foundation will have books and music for sale. Guests are encouraged to view the collection of books, artifacts and traditional Finnish costumes in the Library/Museum, as well as to visit the Sauma Museum.
“The festival serves as both a celebration of Finnish heritage and a chance to connect with friends, neighbors, and visitors interested in learning more about the culture that helped shaped the area’s history,” said Sulin.
Admission and parking are free. Chicken barbecue dinners are $20 and reservations are encouraged. To reserve a dinner, e-mail [email protected] or call / text 978-407-9690.
For a complete schedule of events, visit the Friends of Saima Park Facebook page or the Finnish Center’s website at saima-park.org.
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