Merefestit

Things to do in June 1.-14.6.2026

The first weeks of June already bring a lively atmosphere, with music, activities, sea excursions, and even a potato carnival. The city awakens to summer, offering something for everyone—from maritime events and festival vibes to peaceful moments in nature and culture.

Over the coming weeks, you can enjoy live performances, guided tours, and sports events. Churches also open their doors for the summer, while new exhibitions take over galleries and the library.

And of course, the highlight of early summer is the vibrant Merefest, filling the city with joy, energy, and a true summer festival spirit. Now is the perfect time to head out, embrace the beginning of summer, and discover new experiences around the city.

 

urut

Music

  • Uusikaupunki Volunteer Fire Brigade Band Park Concert at Rauhanpuisto on Tue 2 June at 18:00. The program includes pieces such as Tähti ja meripoika, Kultaa ja hopeaa, and Maailman toisella puolen. Free admission.
  • “Did it strike a chord?” – An evening of thoughts and music on Wed 3 June at 18:00–21:00, Restaurant Luode, Aittaranta 8. A sensitive and atmospheric performance by four women invites you to reflect through music. Why does one moment touch us more than another? Why does music make us feel things beyond words? Featuring Kirsti Lampela, Päivi Kurkilahti, Merja Halinen, and Jaana Kulmala. Table reservations: +358 41 3118220 or info@ravintolaluode.fi
  • Organ Recitals on Thursdays at the New Church at 12:00, Rauhankatu 3. Free admission.
    Thu 4 June: Irina Ala-Opas, and Thu 11 June: Kari Vuola
  • Live Music Saturdays at Santtioranta starting 13 June at 17:00–20:00, Kalalokkikuja 14. The summer season opens with Päivi Kurkilahti. Free admission.
     

Guided Tours

Kasarminlahti

Guided Nature Walk in the Kasarminlahti and Sorvakko Area

Tuesday 3 June at 18:00–20:00, starting from the Sorvakko sports field parking area, Etelälinjakatu 2.

During this relaxed walking tour, we will observe the first plants of early summer, listen to birdsong, and watch their movements. We will also stop to admire the scenic fields of Sorvakkko and hear about the area’s fascinating history and diverse recreational opportunities. The route follows an easy path, though it is not fully accessible.

Guide: Pauliina Nurmi, authorised guide of Uusikaupunki and wilderness & nature guide.
More information and tickets: visituusikaupunki.johku.com

Pop-up Guided Tours during Merefest

Departures on Saturday 6 June on the hour at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, and 16:00, next to the Tervaportti bridge leading to Sorvakkko.

Duration: 1 hour. No advance registration required.
Price: €15 per person, payable in cash directly to the guide.

During the tour, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the over 400-year-old wooden town.
 

Myllymäki

Guided Myllymäki Tour

On Wednesday 10 June at 18:00, take a fascinating journey back in time to explore the history of Myllymäki Hill in Uusikaupunki. This historic and lush oasis was a gift to the city from a prominent local figure, merchant Johan Nordström, who was born on the hillside.

The tour delves into the history of windmills and their past, showcases the park’s old perennials and rare plants, and includes a stop at a memorial dedicated to those who carried out air surveillance during wartime.

The walking tour has been compiled and designed by Raija Herrala-Nurmi, who also serves as the guide.

Starting point: the stairs on the Vuorikatu side of Myllymäki Hill, address Vuorikatu 1.
More information and tickets: visituusikaupunki.johku.com

The guidances will be held in finnish language.

 

Merefestit

Merefest

Merefest is an annual, family-friendly city festival held in Uusikaupunki, marking the start of the summer season with a strong maritime atmosphere. In 2026, the event takes place on 5–6 June, bringing together locals and visitors to enjoy great company, experiences, and the best of early summer.

The festival mainly spreads along the waterfront of the city bay and into the town centre, where a lively market buzz and festive atmosphere fill the streets. Merefest is known for its relaxed vibe and diverse programme suitable for all ages.

This year’s theme is commercial fishing, with plenty of activities related to fish handling and fish cuisine for both adults and
children—including tastings. Along the waterfront, you’ll find a funfair, and visitors can also take a look at the fire brigade’s 
equipment. Younger family members can hop on a motorcycle or take part in a fish identification contest.

Restaurants offer a wide range of live music, and the festival kicks off at Gasthaus Pooki with a performance by Tuure Kilpeläinen. Over the weekend, you can also enjoy artists like Irina or dive into a ’90s atmosphere at Pooki’s disco.

The traditional museum train will run throughout the weekend between Turku and Uusikaupunki. More information about 
schedules and ticket prices is available online.

👉 See the full programme: www.merefestit.fi
 

perunat ja kala

Early Potato Carnival at Santtioranta

Saturday 6 June at 11:00–16:00, Kalalokkikuja 14.

The event features Väättänen Farm with its early potatoes and Pakkahuone with fresh donuts. A variety of dishes made from new potatoes will also be available. For children, there will be a bouncy castle and face painting.

Live music by Jani Forsman & Hot Potatoes.
Free admission.

 

Restaurants Programme

Restaurant Wiku, Aittaranta 4–6

  • Fri 5 June at 22:00: Miss Blue & Blue Balls
  • Sat 6 June at 20:00: Duo 20 Cent
  • Sat 6 June at 22:00: Miss Blue & Blue Balls

Restaurant Bistro Bay & Pulperi, Aittaranta 10–12

  • Fri 5 June at 22:00: Irina, Ukibiza & Merefest
  • Sat 6 June at 20:00: Dr Doctor, Ukibiza & Merefest
  • Fri 12 June at 22:00: Mikko Itäranta Band

Restaurant Luode, Aittaranta 8

  • Fri 5 June at 22:00: Dinturist
  • Sat 6 June at 22:00: Cover Up’s

Pakkahuone Terrace After Work

  • Fri 5 June at 18:00–21:00: Rami Rafael
  • Fri 12 June at 18:00–21:00: Jukitsu & Hatakka

Gasthaus Pooki, Ylinenkatu 21

  • Sat 6 June: 90s Disco, DJ playing the best hits of the 1990s from 20:00 to 01:30
  • Pooki Grill open 18:00–20:00
  • Age limit: 30+

Free entry to all restaurants.
 

lapset

Other Events

  • Children’s Play Day at Santtioranta every Monday at 14:00–18:00, Kalalokkikuja 14.
    Includes a bouncy castle and face painting. Free entry.
  • Children’s Holiday Movie: SpongeBob SquarePants and the Deep Sea Adventure, Main Library, Alinenkatu 34.
    Free admission, but age limit is 7+.
  • Pakkahuone Bingo every Friday at 16:00–18:00, Pakkahuoneentori 1.
    Free bingo, great prizes, and (weather permitting) a bouncy castle for children.
  • Männäinen Market at Kalantitalo every other Friday starting 12 June, Pankkitie 1.
    An evening market with music, exhibitions, and local vendors.
    www.mannaistentori.fi
  • Fashion Show on Alinenkatu on Saturday 13 June from 12:00 onwards.
    Local boutiques from Uusikaupunki present their summer fashion collections.

 

Pyhämaan kirkot

Churches

Old Church, Alinenkatu 44.
Open:

  • Tuesdays 11:00–14:00 (a tour guide is present)
  • Wed–Sat 11:00–17:00
  • Sun 12:00–16:00

New Church, Rauhankatu 3.
Open:

  • Tuesdays 11:45–14:00
  • Wed–Sat 11:00–17:00
  • Sun 12:00–16:00

Kalanti Church, Pyhän Olavin tie 6.
Open:

  • Wed–Sat 11:00–17:00
  • Sun 12:00–16:00

The Suvi Summer Café at Kalanti Church is open:

  • Wed–Sat 11:15–16:00
  • Sun 12:15–16:00

Lokalahti Church, Palomäentie 2.
Open:

  • Wed–Sat 11:00–17:00
  • Sun 12:00–16:00

Pyhämaa Sacrificial Church and New Church, Kirkontaustantie 15.
Open:

  • Wed–Sat 11:00–17:00
  • Sun 12:00–16:00
     

Vilttejä ja vaatteita

Exhibitions

  • “Blankets and Clothing – Made in Uusikaupunki” Exhibition, Wahlberg Museum House, Ylinenkatu 11.
    Uusikaupunki’s textile industry flourished especially in the 1940s–1960s, employing many women, although the first factory was established in 1919. The most notable company, Uudenkaupungin Villatavaratehdas (later Uuvi Ltd.), operated until 1987. The city also had over ten other textile companies producing fabrics, socks, and clothing.
    The exhibition presents the history of these companies and gives voice to the workers.
    Open from 8 June: Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat–Sun 11:00–16:00.
  • Runonkulma Gallery and Pikkukylä Shop
    Open Wed 16:00–19:00 and Sat 11:00–15:00 (Ylinenkatu 38B).
    Features rotating art exhibitions.
  • Tupsula – Exhibition of Thousands of Tufts & Päivi Virkkunen: Night in the Garden
    Open Tue and Thu 13:00–17:00, Sat 10:00–14:00 (Alinenkatu 24).
    As a special feature this summer, the Tupsula team has also created a decorative boat made of crocheted tufts, on display at the Pakkahuone waterfront.
  • Gallery Horisontti
    The main space showcases works by three artists: Nanni Pihljärta (Stockholm), Riinaliina Eräpohja (Parainen), and Katri Oksanen (Turku). The studio features the latest works by members of the local Art Association.
    Open Wed–Fri 12:00–15:00 and Sat 10:00–13:00 (Alinenkatu 24).
  • Uusikaupunki Library, Galleria Kirjava
    Natalia Shvydka: Thin Threads. The exhibition presents icons created using embroidery techniques.
    Library opening hours: Mon–Thu 10:00–18:00, Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat 10:00–14:00 (Alinenkatu 34).
  • Cultural Centre Cruselli
    Exhibition Interpretation by the Artists’ Association of Finland. The theme invites visitors to create their own meanings—each experience is unique and forms the core of the exhibition.
    Open Tue, Wed, Fri 10:00–16:00, Thu 10:00–18:00 (Kullervontie 11).
    Exhibition open until 12 June.
  • Pakkahuone Café
    Exhibition by Markus Kotiranta. Open daily 8:00–22:00 (Pakkahuoneentori 1).
  • Käsityöpuar (Handicraft Shop)
    (Pyhämaanranta 37, Pyhämaa)
    Offers locally made handicrafts from Pyhämaa, including traditional sailor crafts, miniature models, jewelry, knitwear, table 
    runners, towels, rag rugs, woven textiles, and ceramics.
    Open Wed–Sun from 3 June, 10:00–16:00.

 

Bonk-museo

Museums

  • Bonk Museum and Children’s Innovation Workshop (Siltakatu 2).
    The Bonk Museum presents the strange and humorous world of the fictional industrial empire Bonk Business Inc. The exhibition features unusual Bonk machines, including non-functional devices and imaginative inventions from the 1800s to the 1950s. 
    Bonk is a fantasy concept created by artist Alvar Gullichsen, around which an entire fictional corporate history has been built.
    Open from 2 June, Tue–Sat 11:00–15:00.
    bonkcentre.fi/en
  • Car Museum (Autotehtaankatu 11).
    Open daily 10:00–18:00.
  • Wahlberg Museum House (Ylinenkatu 11).
    Open Tue–Fri 2–5 June 12:00–15:00.
    From Monday 8 June onwards: Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat–Sun 11:00–16:00.
  • Kalanti Local Heritage Museum (Kuriirikuja 1, Kalanti).
    Open Sun 14 June 11:00–16:00.
    The museum showcases traditional rural culture from the Vakka-Suomi region.
    Admission: €2 (cash only).

 

puistojooga

Wellbeing, Outdoor Activities and Sports

  • Cycling Challenge until 21 June.
    This traditional campaign encourages residents to travel in a sustainable and affordable way. More information is available on the City of Uusikaupunki website.
  • Fitness & Wellbeing Elleni: Summer classes at Kalanti Workers’ Hall, Pappilankuja 9.
    At 17:00 Pilates and at 18:00 Lavis (Finnish dance fitness).
    Pilates is a gentle class designed to improve mobility, strength, balance, and control. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Bring your own mat, dress warmly, and wear socks.
    Lavis is a fun, energetic dance workout for those who enjoy traditional Finnish dance music. Also suitable for all ages and fitness levels. No registration required.
    Price: €12 (€9)/class.
  • Circuit Training for Seniors Tue 2 June at 13:00–14:00, Wintteri, Pohjoistullitie 3.
    A guided workout using different equipment.
    Price: €6.50.
  • Elleni Sports Centre: Kettlebell Training at Ainonkuja playground on Tuesdays at 19:00–20:00.
    A versatile strength workout with a good cardio element. Bring your own kettlebell or borrow one on-site.
    Price: €12 (€9). Payment by cash, card, or sports benefits.
  • Zumba at Sorvakkko Beach Lawn on Wednesdays at 19:00.
    No registration needed. Bring a water bottle and weather-appropriate clothing. In bad weather, the class is held indoors at Elleni Sports Centre.
    Price: €12 (€9). More info: Johanna, +358 50 564 3374.
  • Park Yoga at Myllymäki every Thursday at 18:00–19:00.
    Bring your own water bottle and yoga/exercise mat. A blanket is recommended for relaxation.
    Price: €11 (cash, card, or sports benefits).
    More info: www.satyajooga.fi
  • Cottage Yoga at Sisula Sat 6 June and Sun 14 June at 19:00, Eräistenkarintie 10.
    Bring your own yoga mat, blanket, water bottle, and suitable clothing. In case of rain, the session will be held indoors in a barn.
    Price: €10/person.
    Register via WhatsApp to Anne: +358 50 573 13640.
  • Golf Beginner's Courses Sun 7 June at 9:30–15:30 and Sun 14 June at 10:00–16:00, Golfintie 2.
    Learn the basics of golf and complete the Green Card, required to play golf.
    Registration: ugk.fi
  • Junior Golf Activities by Uusikaupunki Golf Club
    Summer courses for juniors aim to make starting golf easy. UGK offers free training sessions and equipment for beginners, as well as free range balls for the entire season for those participating in summer training.
    More information: ugk.fi

 

Isokari

Isokari Cruises

Cruises depart from the Uusikaupunki guest harbour, located in the atmospheric bay area in the city centre.
More information: tel. +358 40 1866 350 and info@isokari.fi
Please note that changes are possible—check updated departure dates and purchase tickets at:
https://merikauppa.isokari.fi

Day Cruise
3–6 June (Wed–Sat) at 10:30–17:30, and 10–13 June.
Departure from behind the Pakkahuone guest harbour, Pakkahuoneenkuja 2.
The price includes sea transport, a guided island tour, entrance to the lighthouse, and lunch.

Birdwatching Cruise
Sunday 7 June at 9:00–17:30.
The route circles Keskikallio, home to large colonies of auks, and along the way you may spot species such as black guillemots, razorbills, skuas, and many other seabirds. On Isokari Island, the programme includes birdwatching, lunch, and the opportunity to visit the lighthouse.

Seal Safari: Uusikaupunki – Sandbäck – Isokari
Sunday 14 June at 9:00–17:30.
This trip offers a unique chance to head out to the open sea to observe the largest seals of the Baltic Sea. During the journey, you will also see islands colonised by cormorants, osprey nesting platforms, and the beautiful landscapes of the Uusikaupunki archipelago.



golf 

Other

Wintteri Swimming Hall, Pohjoistullitie 3.
Opening hours can be checked online. The swimming hall is closed during summer weekends.

Sauna Pier Höyry, open daily 10:00–22:00, Pilssitie 23.
Closed for maintenance until 4 June.

Uusikaupunki Golf Course, Golfintie 2.
www.ugk.fi

Skate Park and Leijona Playground
Located by the City Bay waterfront.

Sorvakkko Disc Golf Course, Veneranta 4.

Hiunjärvi Outdoor Trail
Starting point at Saarnisto School parking area, Pajusuontie.

Kasarminlahti Nature Trail
The marked route starts from the sports field parking area at Etelälinjakatu 2.
The accessible section begins at Kasarminlahdentie 8. In addition to the accessible route, you can continue from the birdwatching tower to a more demanding trail leading to the Kasarminlahti lean-to shelter or the Vionpuhti campfire site.

Pamprinniemi Nature Trail, Hauintie 259, Pyhämaa.
Located in the Ketteli area of Pyhämaa on parish land, the trail is approximately 4 km long.

Oinassaari Lean-to Shelter, Oinassaarentie 166.
A pleasant excursion destination for drivers, boaters, or cyclists. Located in Korsaari, about 18 km from the centre of Uusikaupunki towards Lepäinen.

👉 More event tips: tapahtumat.uusikaupunki.fi/en

 

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