Provinssi music festival began with the dream of hosting a David Bowie concert. In the late 1970s, a group of music lovers in the Finnish city of Seinäjoki formed an association to bring culture, music and art to their community. The dream came true in 2004, when David Bowie finally played at the festival. 22 years later, Provinssi is still going strong.

“We’re one of the oldest and most beloved music festivals in Finland,” says Aino-Maria Paasivirta, head promoter at Provinssi. “Our lineup consists of familiar favourites and exciting emerging acts. In terms of genre, we’re proudly crossover – a festival for all music fans.”

A view of Provinssi music festival. Photo by Emma Kautto. | Provinssi: Enjoying music, art and nature in Finland

A view of Provinssi music festival. Photo by Emma Kautto.

Provinssi: Enjoying music, art and nature in Finland

Sexmane One of the stages at Provinssi. Photo by Sasha Vilenius.

In the past, international artists such as The Prodigy, Foo Fighters, and Patti Smith have played. This summer, Bad Omens will play along with domestic A-listers such as Kuumaa, Käärijä, Lauri Haav, and other exciting names. “Our audience is mainly Finnish. We have a dedicated fan base who we love,” says Paasivirta. “But we always have international visitors as well.”

Crowd-surfing at Provinssi. Photo by Lorna Shore and Sami Mutka. | Provinssi: Enjoying music, art and nature in Finland

Crowd-surfing at Provinssi. Photo by Lorna Shore and Sami Mutka.

Easily accessible, Provinssi’s site is surrounded by stunning nature. “To get to listen to live music here is an unforgettable experience,” says Paasivirta. Seinäjoki also has several restaurants and cultural venues worth exploring. “Restaurant Juurella was our excellent VIP partner last summer,” Paasivirta says. But most of all, she stresses, Provinssi is a celebration of music. “There’s always something new and exciting happening. Our goal is to be a fun, creative and safe festival for all.”

The festival welcomes all ages, with tickets for children under six free and reduced for 13-17-year-olds.

The nature surrounding the festival. Photo by Mika Kivisaari. | Provinssi: Enjoying music, art and nature in Finland

The nature surrounding the festival. Photo by Mika Kivisaari.

Web: www.provinssi.fi
Facebook: Provinssi
Instagram: @provinssi
YouTube: Provinssi

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