Juhannus Pihlajasaaressa

Pihlajasaari celebrates Midsummer in its traditional way on 19–20 June 2026, offering a peaceful summer escape just a 10-minute boat ride from central Helsinki. During the bright early summer nights, the island transforms into a calm Midsummer retreat where Finnish holiday traditions meet beautiful archipelago nature.

When weather conditions are favorable, the island attracts thousands of Midsummer visitors who spend a self-guided celebration among sandy beaches, rocky shores, and scenic coastal landscapes. The island restaurant is open throughout the weekend, serving food, drinks, and its popular salmon soup. On Friday evening, the stage features BadCase, a band playing danceable 80s–90s pop and rock, while the beach bar DJ plays summer pop music into the early evening.

The restaurant terrace remains open throughout Midsummer. A traditional Midsummer bonfire is lit by the city on Friday around 21:00, weather and safety conditions permitting.

Programme: Fri 19 June 2026 11:30–00:00 (kitchen 12:00–22:30) – BadCase live approx. 20:00, DJ from approx. 16:00 Sat 20 June 2026 11:30–20:00 (kitchen 12:00–19:00)

Camping is also available on the eastern part of the island for €15 per night. Open fires are only allowed in designated cooking shelters provided with firewood by the city.

Pihlajasaari is easily accessible by ferry from Merisatama (in front of Café Carusel) and from Ruoholahti (near the metro station), and the journey itself is part of the Midsummer experience.