Midsummer in Suolahti

Midsummer has been celebrated in the dark North since time immemorial.

The long dark season finally turns at Midsummer into a celebration of light, and summer is at its most beautiful. Traditionally, Midsummer has been spent at the cottage and the cities are left empty. After an exceptional spring, however, celebrating Midsummer in the city among people sounds just as tempting an option as a cottage Midsummer.

In the spirit of local travel, I headed on a day trip to Suolahti.

Tapio Junno’s Lastaajat statue

My aim was to find out everything happening in Suolahti at Midsummer. I arrived in Suolahti by bus and headed for Suolahti’s magnificent harbor area, which is right next to the center. Visitors are greeted at the harbor by Tapio Junno’s Lastaajat statue and the beautiful Wanha Asema. In the station yard you can sense the bustle of bygone days on the rails, admire the beautiful lake scenery, and examine the track switches.

Photo: Mikko Suutala. A beautiful walkway leads from Wanha Asema along the shoreline. 

On the shore of Lake Keitele, the city and nature are harmoniously together. I walked along a birch-lined path toward Satamaraitti, where you will find the charming, hex nut-shaped Restaurant Majakka, which also includes a Dance Pavilion offering more indoor space and a large terrace.

At Majakka I met the restaurant’s current owner Matti Leppänen.

The restaurant’s fourth owner to date speaks vividly and enthusiastically about both his restaurant and the unique surroundings. In addition to Wanha Asema, the historic harbor area includes, for example, a heritage dockyard and the Keitele Museum.

The unique harbor area offers cozy settings in Suolahti for spending an urban Midsummer. Restaurant Majakka offers food, drinks, and live music for Midsummer—everything I, at least, have missed during the spring of quarantine.

On Midsummer Eve, 19 June, Katri and Sauli starting at 8 pm. The event has free entry. In Suolahti the bonfire is organized jointly by Restaurant Majakka and the village association. The Midsummer bonfire will be lit near Restaurant Majakka at 8 pm, if the fire chief grants permission.

Midsummer is also celebrated in Suolahti on Midsummer Day.

On Midsummer Saturday, 20 June, Vehkala performs as a duo at Majakka from 7 pm. This event is also free of charge.

Photo: Mikko Suutala. Heritage dockyard

During my day trip I realized I had found hidden treasures in my hometown. I could never have imagined everything Suolahti has to offer, when you just manage to ask the right person. So if you forgot to book a cottage and are wondering what on earth you can do in the city at Midsummer, head to Suolahti!

Midsummer greetings

Anniina, @annhetes

Restaurant Majakka @suolahden_majakka

Keitele Museum on Facebook: Lättähattujuna - Keitele Museum