Kekri 2025

In the old days, Kekri marked the highlight of the year – the harvest season ended, the annual cycle turned, and servants got a well-earned break. It was the darkest time of the year, when people believed the spirits of the dead returned among the living. Supernatural beings were appeased with treats, offerings, and sauna steam. Magic was used to glimpse the future and ensure a good harvest for the coming year… Kekri is a time of spells and supernatural presence.

Kekri and Halloween share roots in European tradition – but Kekri is a unique part of Finnish cultural heritage.

Do you dare step into the darker shadows of the past?
Welcome to Kuopio Museum’s Friday evening event, where the spirit of Kekri comes alive! Expect spine-tingling program created by youth for youth – stories, characters, and an atmosphere that will send delightful chills down your spine.

The event at Kuopio Museum is mostly free of charge for everyone (see program for any exceptions – updates coming). Additionally, from 16:30 to 20:00, entrance to Kuopio Museum exhibitions is free for everyone under 29. For those over 29, regular ticket prices apply (€15 / €10 or Museum Card or Kaikukortti).

During the Kekri at Kuopio Museum

Fire show to end the evening around 19:45: Tuluxxia Duo’s fire performance takes the audience on a mystical journey with horned figures, flaming rhythms, and fire turned into enchanting art. (Outdoor performance on Museokatu – rain won’t stop it!)

Live music: Northern Doom storms in from Kuopio with a mix of heavy and fast death/thrash metal. The band is young, as are its members – but don’t underestimate them. Come and experience the new wave of Kuopio metal!

Dramatized adventure trail: Spooky and exciting – what will emerge? Created in collaboration between two youth theatre goups. The trail goes through the museum’s exhibition floors. (In Finnish)

Included in the evening by popular demand from young people: K-pop RPD (Random Play Dance)

Root lantern workshop – running throughout the event

Wheel of Fate: Dare to spin and predict your destiny for the coming year.

Face painting station: If you didn’t find anything Kekri (or Halloween) themed to wear, you can still get into the spirit at the museum’s face painting station.

Info about Kekri and traditions

Exhibitions:
During the event (16:30–20:00), Kuopio Museum’s permanent exhibitions are free for visitors under 29. For those over 29, regular ticket prices apply (€15 / €10). Museum Card and Kaikukortti are accepted.
Current special exhibition: Mythical Creatures – Secrets of the Forest
Permanent exhibitions: The Time of HumansTime, Changing Nature, and On the Border of Reality and Myth.

https:/­/­kuopionmuseo.fi/­in-english/­

So put on your costume and join the Kekri festivities – experience the mysticism of Kekri at Kuopio Museum!
The event is primarily aimed at youth and young adults and may not be suitable for younger children.

Part of the Kuopio250 anniversary year.
(Changes and updates are possible)