Event Tips for October–November, 26 October – 8 November 2026

October is turning into November, but the darker autumn evenings are not slowing things down – Uusikaupunki is full of light and plenty of things to see and do! The much-loved Hehku Carnival brings a magical glow to the autumn darkness, while Halloween fun awaits with a spooky ghost tour, library events and an exciting ice disco. Culture lovers can enjoy concerts, theatre performances, films and exhibitions. There are also plenty of opportunities to stay active, enjoy some wellness activities and try something new!
 

Hehku Carnival

Hehku is city’s annual celebration of light and community spirit, bringing joy and colour to the dark autumn evenings. On Friday, 30 October, from 5 pm to 7 pm, Rauhanpuisto Park and the Market Square will once again come alive with imaginative costumes, music, delicious treats and a cheerful carnival atmosphere. The evening’s entertainment includes performances by Chris & Laurell Acoustic Rock Duo and juggler Kai Kuutamo. The programme also features the announcement of the Hehku, Spirit of the Year award and prizes for the best Halloween costumes. You can register for the costume competition at the city's information stand between 5 pm and 5.30 pm.

The evening culminates in Flamman's spectacular fire show at the Market Square at 6.45 pm. Children can enjoy an activity trail and face painting in the park, while market stalls offer handicrafts, delicious pastries, seasonal treats and hot food. See the full programme on the City of Uusikaupunki website.

On Thursday, 29 October, from 6 pm to 8 pm, a spooky wire-mesh workshop will take place at the Town Hall, where participants can create ghostly figures or a floating dress. No previous experience is needed. The workshop costs €35, payable on site in cash or via MobilePay. It is led by florist and gardener Johanna Sillgren. There are 10 places available, and at least three participants are required for the workshop to take place. Register by email: puutarhaakatemia@gmail.com 

Bring thin gardening gloves and, if possible, wire cutters. The workshop will take place mainly indoors, with some activities outdoors. Participants can also choose to have their creations displayed in the Hehku Carnival's ghost exhibition!

Shadows of Uusikaupunki – Stories of Life and Death

Uusikaupunki’s dark secrets come to life on Saturday, 31 October, at 6 pm, when the Shadows of Uusikaupunki ghost tour takes participants on a journey through the town’s fascinating and chilling history. Guided by Verkko Vilma and Lyhty Lyydia, you’ll hear stories inspired by real events, revealing tragic fates, mysterious happenings and forgotten townspeople – with a touch of imagination. Each stop opens a window into the past, where sailors, craftsmen and fishermen still seem to whisper their stories in the quiet harbour and shadowy parks. The tour will be held in Finnish. Dare to join the tour and encounter the Shadows of Uusikaupunki? More information and tickets: visituusikaupunki.johku.com

In Uusikaupunki Theatre’s comedy Karavaanari, actor Mikko Aarnela accidentally witnesses a murder and is forced to escape with a group of caravan enthusiasts. What follows is a hilarious adventure full of misunderstandings, surprises and light-hearted humour. The close-knit caravan community adds its own twist to the journey. The caravan is on the move – will you join the ride?Tickets €24. Upcoming performances: Wednesday, 28 October at 7 pm, Saturday, 31 October at 6 pm, and Saturday, 7 November at 1 pm. The play is performed in Finnish.

Buy tickets in advance at lippu.fi or from the Cultural Office (Kullervontie 11, ground floor of Cruselli), open Tue–Wed and Fri 10 am–4 pm, Thu 10 am–6 pm. Tel. +358 50 420 5401.  

Other Events

• Halloween Crafts Mon 26 October, 2–3.30 pm, Main Library, Alinenkatu 34. Free and open to all children and young people. The library provides all craft materials.
• Book Launch: Katujen kertomaa Mon 26 October, 4.30–6 pm, Main Library, Alinenkatu 34. This event celebrates the launch of Katujen kertomaa, a book about the urban and architectural history of Uusikaupunki, written by Museum Director Mari Jalava. The event is hosted by Päivi Poskiparta and is open to everyone. The book costs €45 and is available at the library, the museum and Sannin Paperi ja Kirja bookshop.
• Ansa and Tauno Puppet Theatre and Stories by Rosa Liksom Tue 27 October, 2–3 pm, Sakunkulma, Zachariasseninkatu 1. A puppet theatre performance and readings from Rosa Liksom's works, presented by Kerttu Aaltonen and Raimo Nummela. Open to everyone. Free admission.
• Halloween Crafts at Kalanti Library Tue 27 October, 5–6.30 pm, Pankkitie 2. Free and open to all children and young people. The library provides all craft materials.
• Baby Rhymes at the Main Library Wed 28 October, 9.30–10 am, Alinenkatu 34. Enjoy traditional and modern nursery rhymes and familiar children's songs together with your baby. Led by librarian Tuula Amberla. Suitable for babies aged 0–18 months.
• Wellbeing Afternoon at Wintteri's Rauha Hall Wed 28 October, 1–3 pm, Viikaistenkatu 3. An afternoon dedicated to wellbeing and healthy nutrition. Pharmacist Katriina Helasmo will talk about vitamins and supplements, while Pia Niemonen will discuss meal routines and the importance of protein for older adults. Visitors can also sample sea buckthorn and ginger shots and vegetable crisps. Organised by the Uusikaupunki Martha Association.
• Read-Aloud Session at Sakunkulma Wed 28 October, 2–3 pm, Zachariasseninkatu 1. Päivi Poskiparta will read aloud, followed by an opportunity to discuss the stories. Feel free to bring your knitting, crafts or another quiet activity.
• Mömön seikkailut – Puppet Theatre at the Main Library Thu 29 October, 9.30–10 am, Alinenkatu 34. A heartwarming and humorous puppet show based on Tomi Norha's picture book Mömön seikkailut, performed by Joanna Hammarberg and Tomi Norha. Please note that this performance replaces the regular storytime session this week.
• Halloween Movie at the Library: The Nightmare Before Christmas Thu 29 October, 4 pm, Alinenkatu 34. Tim Burton's animated fantasy tells the story of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town. Tired of the same old spooky routines, Jack discovers the magical world of Christmas and decides to try something new. Free admission.
• Hehku Carnival Pre-Party at Ohjaamo Fri 30 October, 3–4.45 pm, Vuorikatu 11. Get into the Hehku Carnival spirit with a relaxed get-together, a fun quiz, great prizes and light refreshments. Bright and glowing outfits are encouraged!
• Meet the Author: Mari Jalava Fri 30 October, 3–5 pm, Sannin Paperi ja Kirja, Alinenkatu 25. Mari Jalava presents her book Katujen kertomaa, exploring the urban and architectural history of Uusikaupunki.
• Ice Hockey: UJK–LLuja Sat 31 October, 7.30 pm, Ice Hall, Koulupolku 1. Tickets €5 per person. Free admission for club membership card holders and children under 15.
• Restaurant Blue Time: Village Pub Halloween Party Sat 31 October, from 9 pm, Pruukintie 3, Kalanti. Enjoy live music, bingo and a spooky Halloween atmosphere! The evening begins with bingo at 9 pm, followed by a live performance by Chris at 10 pm. The best Halloween costume will be awarded at 11.45 pm based on an audience vote. Dressing up is optional, so everyone is welcome!
• Live Music at Bar Yhet: STJ Band Sat 31 October, 10 pm, Alinenkatu 24.
• Book Club at the Main Library Mon 2 November, 4–5 pm, Alinenkatu 34. November's discussion focuses on Rakkauksien lokikirja by Elina Hirvonen. Share your reading experiences, recommend favourite books or simply come along to listen. Free admission. More information on the Vakka-Opisto website.
• Meet the Author: Satu Rämö at Wintteri's Rauha Hall Mon 2 November, 6–7 pm, Viikaistenkatu 3. Internationally successful author Satu Rämö, best known for her Hildur crime novel series, visits Uusikaupunki. She will be interviewed by Tuula-Riitta Karlin and Satu Mattila from the Uusikaupunki Pohjola-Norden Association. Organised in cooperation with Uusikaupunki Library, the local Pohjola-Norden Association and Vakka-Suomi Adult Education Centre.
• Evening Music Concert Mon 2 November at 6.30 pm, Wintteri Steps, Viikaistenkatu 3. Enjoy an evening of music featuring 
  piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet and saxophone. Free admission.
• Read to a Pet – Vakka-Suomen Karvakaverit Tue 3 November, 5–6 pm, Kalanti Library, Pankkitie 2. Two friendly listening dogs will be there for children to read to. Choose a picture book, storybook or even a non-fiction book! Each reading session lasts approximately 5–10 minutes, and participants are welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Lecture: Islands of the Baltic Sea Wed 4 November, 6 pm, Wintteri, Secondary School Classroom (Reaali), Viikaistenkatu 3. The Baltic Sea is home to tens of thousands of islands, most of them uninhabited islets and rocky outcrops. The largest include Gotland, Saaremaa and Öland. Together, the Baltic islands have more than 600,000 inhabitants. Their rich history, fascinating cultures and diverse natural landscapes make them popular travel destinations. The lecture is given by Antti Karlin. Fee €10. Advance registration is available on the Vakka-Opisto website.
• Kino Rauha: Marraskuun harmaa valo Wed 4 November, 6 pm, Main Library, Alinenkatu 34. This Finnish crime film, written and directed by Anssi Mänttäri, tells the story of businessman Kari Syysmäki (Esko Salminen), who shoots a bank robber after the man breaks into his hotel room in Tallinn. Following the incident, he finds himself under surveillance by both the local mafia and the criminal police. Free admission. Age restriction: 16+.
• Basketball: Korihait vs Kauhajoki Wed 4 November, 6.30 pm, Wintteri, Pohjoistullitie 3. Advance tickets: kauppa.korihait.fi.
• Storytime at Kalanti Library Thu 5 November, 9.30–10 am, Pankkitie 2.
• Eila Saarinen's Upper Secondary School Music Diploma Concert: Murheellisten laulujen maa Thu 5 November, 5 pm, Cruselli, Kullervontie 11. A concert organised by young people. Free admission.
• Turku Conservatory: Accelerando Group Performance Fri 6 November, 6 pm, Cruselli, Kullervontie 11. A concert featuring students from the Turku Conservatory's Accelerando programme, designed for talented young musicians who progress rapidly in their musical studies. Free admission.
• Children's Saturday Movie: Coco Sat 7 November, 12 noon, Main Library, Alinenkatu 34. In Disney and Pixar's colourful adventure about family, music and tradition, aspiring young musician Miguel sets off on an extraordinary journey to the magical Land of the Dead. There, he befriends the charming trickster Héctor, who helps him uncover the mysteries of his family's history and traditions. Free admission. Age restriction: 7+.

Uusikaupunki New Church (Rauhankatu 3) is open on Thursdays from 4 pm to 6 pm. In the choir area, you will find a prayer altar and a candle stand, where you can light a candle if you wish. This Gothic-style church was completed in 1865 and designed by architect Georg von Chiewitz. Free admission.

Uusikaupunki Chapel of Rest (Autotehtaankatu 1) is open on 30 October from 2 pm to 8 pm for quiet reflection. A church social worker will be present, and warm mulled juice and gingerbread biscuits will be served. Free admission.

Art and history lovers will find plenty to explore throughout Uusikaupunki. Discover the town's textile industry heritage, visit art exhibitions and galleries, or admire miniature models of objects from the past. The exhibitions offer a fascinating mix of local history, contemporary art and vibrant colours.

- Vilttejä ja vaatteita – Made in Uusikaupunki Exhibition, Wahlberg's Museum House, Ylinenkatu 11.
Uusikaupunki's textile industry flourished particularly from the 1940s to the 1960s, employing many women, although the first factory was established as early as 1919. The town's most significant textile company, Uudenkaupungin villatavaratehdas (later Uuvi Oy), operated until 1987. More than ten other textile companies also produced fabrics, socks and clothing. The exhibition explores the history of these companies and shares the stories of the people who worked in the industry. Open Tue–Fri, 12 noon–3 pm.

- Runonkulman Galleria and Pikkukylän Puoti (Ylinenkatu 38B). Raimo Mattsson's exhibition Pintaa syvemmälle (Beneath the Surface) is on display until Friday, 30 October. Jarmo Järvinen's exhibition Luontoa ja ihmeitä (Nature and Wonders) opens on Wednesday, 4 November. The shop also offers a lovely selection of Finnish handicrafts, design items and art products. The gallery and shop are open Wed 11 am–7 pm, Thu–Fri 11 am–5 pm and Sat 11 am–3 pm. Photo: Runonkulman Galleria Facebook.

- Galleria Horisontti (Alinenkatu 24). Kai-Erik Relander's exhibition Ihmiset ja heidän tarinansa (People and Their Stories) is on display until 7 November. Open Thu–Fri 12 noon–3 pm and Sat 10 am–1 pm.

- Cruselli Cultural Centre, Kullervontie 11. The Vakka-Suomi Art Association's exhibition Yhtä juhlaa (A Celebration) is on display for the coming month. Both new and long-standing members of the association present their artistic work. The exhibition concludes with a special closing event, Huipennus (The Grand Finale), on Friday, 13 November at 6 pm. Cruselli is open Tue–Wed and Fri 10 am–4 pm, Thu 10 am–6 pm.

- Uusikaupunki Library, Galleria Kirjava, Alinenkatu 34. Heli Jalava's colourful naïve art exhibition Ilon hetkiä (Moments of Joy) is on display until 28 October. The library is open Mon–Thu 10 am–6 pm, Fri 10 am–5 pm and Sat 10 am–2 pm.

- Miniature Model Exhibition (Kylähiidentie 55, Kalanti). The exhibition features around 80 miniature models of objects from the past, including cars, aeroplanes, motorcycles and ships. Highlights include a miniature replica of Tutankhamun's tomb and Keke Rosberg's Formula One World Championship-winning car.
Tickets: €5/adult and €3/child. Please confirm opening hours in advance with Tomi Isopahkala, tel. +358 400 806 808.

For Museum Lovers

Wahlberg's Museum House is located in the heart of Uusikaupunki on Ylinenkatu and is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 noon to 3 pm. The impressive former home of Fredrik Wahlberg, founder of the Uusikaupunki tobacco factory, offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy merchant family during the golden age of sailing ships. Upstairs, sailors' chests, ship paintings and other maritime artefacts tell the story of Uusikaupunki's seafaring history, from the age of sailing ships to modern shipbuilding.

The Automobile Museum, located on Autotehtaankatu, is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm. One of Finland's most significant automobile museums, it is also one of Uusikaupunki's most popular year-round attractions. Across three exhibition halls, visitors can explore classic cars, the history of Finland's automotive industry and unique special exhibitions. Highlights include the Korvensuu from 1913, the first car manufactured in Finland, and an extensive Saab collection.

Autumn is the perfect time to stay active and discover new ways to enjoy exercise! Uusikaupunki offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, gym workouts, fitness classes, dancing and ice skating. The city's instructor-led exercise groups cater to people of different ages and fitness levels, while local associations, sports clubs and fitness centres provide even more ways to get moving.

• Water Aerobics for Seniors every Monday and Wednesday, 3–3.45 pm, Swimming Hall, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Shoulders, Back and Abs Workout every Monday, 4.30–5.30 pm, Wintteri Group Exercise Studio, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Functional Training Mondays and Tuesdays, 5.30–6.30 pm, Wintteri Indoor Athletics Area, Pohjoistullitie 3. Participation fee applies.
• Fitness Boxing Mondays, 6–7 pm, Wintteri Martial Arts Hall, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Daytime Functional Training every Tuesday, 1–2 pm, Wintteri Group Exercise Studio, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Adapted Functional Training Tuesdays, 4.15–5 pm, Wintteri Indoor Athletics Area, Pohjoistullitie 3. Free of charge. (Starting 3 November.)
• Intensive Water Workout (Vesirääkki) Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6–6.45 pm, and also Thursdays, 7–7.45 pm, Swimming Hall, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Adapted Gym Session Wednesdays, 10–11 am, Wintteri, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Strength and Balance Class Wednesdays, 11–11.45 am, Wintteri Uusikaupunki Arena, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Open Instructor-Led Gym Session Wednesdays, 1–2 pm, Wintteri, Pohjoistullitie 3.
• Power 45 Water Aerobics Wednesdays at 6 pm, Swimming Hall, Pohjoistullitie 3.

For more information about the city's exercise classes, visit the Sports and Exercise section of the Uusikaupunki Event Calendar.

- Senior Dancing at Seikow Sports Hall Wed 28 October, 2–3 pm, Vuorikatu 11. Come and enjoy traditional circle and partner dances! The dances are easy to learn, so no previous experience is needed. Just bring indoor shoes and a water bottle. Open to everyone and free of charge.

- Autumn Reflector Orienteering and Night Orienteering in Kalanti Wed 28 October, 6–9 pm, Kalanti Sports Field, Sahantie 64. Reflector orienteering is a fun way for families, especially younger children, to discover orienteering and enjoy the autumn outdoors. Two routes are available (0.5 km and 1.3 km), with reflector-marked checkpoints near the illuminated fitness trail. Free of charge. The night orienteering session offers two routes: an easier 1.9 km course and a slightly more challenging 3.2 km course. Checkpoints are located in the forest near the fitness trail, using the Rohijärvi orienteering map. Emit electronic punching is used. Participants' phone numbers will be recorded before the start, so please bring your phone. Map fee applies. More information: Eino Merilahti, tel. +358 45 156 7011. Organised by Vakka-Rasti Association.

- Finnish Social Dance Classes Thursdays, 6–9 pm, Workers' Hall, Ylinenkatu 12. Finnish social dancing is a fun and effective way to stay active, suitable for everyone. Drop-in classes allow you to join whenever it suits you, with no advance registration or long-term commitment. Come on your own, with a partner or with friends! Changing partners is optional, so you can dance with your own partner throughout the class if you prefer. Organised by Tanssiseura Sekahaku Dance Club.

- Public Ice Skating Sundays, 11.30 am–12.30 pm, Ice Hall, Koulupolku 1. Open skating sessions for everyone. Admission €2 per person. Check the latest schedule on the Jää-Kotkat website.

- Halloween Ice Disco Sun 1 November, 5–7 pm, Ice Hall, Koulupolku 1. A spooky ice disco for primary school-aged children and younger! Dress up in your scariest costume – the best outfit wins a prize! Children under school age must be accompanied by an adult supervisor. Children participate under their guardian's responsibility. Tickets €2 per person or €5 per family.

- November Sound Bath Fri 6 November at 6 pm, Studio Hyvinvoinnin Palikat, Tammitie 2. Experience deep relaxation with soothing sounds from instruments such as drums, gongs and singing bowls. The sound bath helps calm both body and mind. Wear comfortable clothing and enjoy a peaceful moment. Price €17 per person. Register with Anne via WhatsApp: +358 50 573 1464.

- Wellness 26 – A Day Just for You Sat 7 November, 9.30 am–3 pm, Liikunta ja Hyvinvointi Elleni, Ainonkuja 5. Take a break from everyday life and enjoy gentle movement, relaxation and wellbeing without any pressure to perform. Try activities such as qigong, Zumba, facial yoga and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-inspired self-care. Exhibitors will also showcase their products and services, and participants will receive a goodie bag filled with products from event partners. Register with Johanna, tel. +358 50 564 3374 or jharikkala@hotmail.com.

In Uusikaupunki, you can enjoy nature and outdoor activities all year round! Explore nature trails, take a trip to a lean-to shelter, or enjoy a refreshing swim followed by the warmth of a sauna. There are plenty of outdoor destinations to discover, both close to the town centre and further away in the peace and quiet of nature.

• Haimio Community Sauna, Haimiontie 351. Winter swimming on Saturdays from 4–7 pm. Located on the shore of a freshwater reservoir, the sauna offers relaxing heat and a refreshing swimming experience in beautiful natural surroundings. Admission is €5 per visit or €35 per season. The person responsible for heating the sauna ensures it is ready when the swimming session begins. A season pass requires you to take at least one turn heating the sauna. Please arrive by 5.30 pm at the latest.
• Metsälehto Sauna, Haimiontie 365. Winter swimming on Sundays from 3–5 pm. The sauna is located on the shore of a
  freshwater reservoir, with easy access to the water via steps from the jetty. The shallow shoreline is also suitable for children. Sauna admission is €5 per person, free for children under 12. (Photo: Vakka-Suomen Latu Facebook).
• Saunalaituri Höyry, open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, Pilssitie 23. Reservations: saunalaiturihoyry.fi/en
• Skate Park and Leijona Playground, located at the inner end of the Kaupunginlahti bay.
• Sorvakko Disc Golf Course, Veneranta 4.
• Hiunjärvi Nature Trail, starting from the Saarnisto School car park, Pajusuontie.
• Kasarminlahti Nature Trail, the marked trail starts from the Sports Field car park at Etelälinjakatu 2. The accessible section 
  begins at Kasarminlahdentie 8. From the birdwatching platform, visitors can continue along a more challenging trail to the Kasarminlahti campfire shelter or the Vionpuhti campfire site.
• Pamprinniemi Nature Trail, Hauintie 259, Pyhämaa. The trail is located on parish-owned land in Ketteli, Pyhämaa, and it is 
  approximately 4 km long.
• Oinassaari Campfire Shelter, Oinassaarentie 166. A lovely destination for a day trip by car, boat or bicycle. The shelter is located on Korsaari Island, approximately 18 km from Uusikaupunki town centre in the direction of Lepäinen.

More tips: 

www.tapahtumat.uusikaupunki.fi/en
www.visituusikaupunki.fi/en