See & Do in Kuhmo

Juminkeko is one of the biggest national centers dedicated to the Kalevala. It aims at preserving, treasuring and spreading the cultural heritage related to the Finnish national epic. At Juminkeko, you’ll be able to see one of the largest Kalevala collections in the world, get to know the history of the Kalevala and Karelianism in many ways, and also learn more about the White Karelian villages. You’re also welcome to take part in the exhibitions, concerts, lectures, seminars, children’s games and other events organised at Juminkeko and advertised via the Juminkeko event calendar. Guide services are always available in Finnish, English, Russian and Italian, and by order also in German and French.

Vienan Portti is an old estate, located in a remote Vartius village close to the Russian border. The history around the  farm and the several historical/ mythical destinations of the surroundings are thick with stories to be shared.  A variety of literature has been collected from the Viena Karelian villages like this. The company is based on an old family estate with history tied to Viena Karelian culture and the Karelianism phenomenon. Ancestor of the current owners, sage Eljas Ahtonen (better known as “Rimmin Uljaska”, even acted as the model for artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela, as painting Väinämöinen for his famous Aino triptych. The company offers  programme services and hosts a summer café serving Viena Karelian delicacies.

The history of Kuhmo is intertwined  with the history of the Kalevala. Elias Lönnrot made many of his poetry collecting trips to Viena Karelia via Kuhmo. You may browse the Kalevala themed products and services, as well as other interesting possibilities of Kuhmo on the site of Wild Taiga. Wild Taiga is a joint service of local tourism companies in Eastern Kainuu, offering also the possibility for online bookings and payments.  You may experience the spirit of the Finnish national epic Kalevala in many of their products and services.

The Gold Spring is a mythical spring on the Finnish-Russian border zone in Kuhmo, where also Elias Lönnrot has rested his feet and quenched his thirst.  Water from the spring flows to two directions; to the White Sea and to the Gulf of Bothnia.  Tours to the Gold Spring (including the border zone permits needed) are operated by Vienan Portti Ltd. Inquiries by phone; +358 44 767 2030.

Kuhmo public library is located on the riverbank of Pajakkakoski rapid. The library participates the UNESCO City of Literature activities by arranging for example writer visits and reading  club events. There are different translations of the Kalevala, as well as a good selection of  folkloristic literature available at the library.

Mobile game ”Viena: Epic Kalevala Adventure” was launched in August 2021 in Finnish and in English. Play as the Hero, helped by the old and wise sage Uljaska, arriving in Viena, destined to save the mythical world of Kalevala. In this story-based visual novel you will live through an epic adventure in Kalevala. The game offers you an elaborately written and thrilling audiovisual story you will want to relive.

Ethno music festival Sommelo is arranged every year at the same time, in the turn of June and July.  There usually are concerts both in  Kainuu region as well as in Viena Karelia on the Russian side. The Runosong tradition and the national epic, Kalevala, combine these two areas. In addition to concerts, Sommelo also offers courses. Welcome to experience this unique festival!