Finn Fun in the Sun

Finn Fest has been going on for twenty-six years, in North America, making culture accessible.

This year’s festival occurred at the Town & Country Resort and Conference Center, in San Diego.
Events were well organized, and there were plenty of them. Not too many cost additional money, particularly of the lectures, and some traditional music. There was a premium for some of the better talent and music, as of course there would be in a lot of places, but a lot was included, particularly frequent daily shows outside, by the swimming pool.

We did not opt for full days at the festival, choosing to check out a little of the surroundings, such as Seaworld, the Orange County Fair, San Diego Zoo, and Richard Walker’s pancake house. (See my respective reviews.) However, if we had stayed each day at the hotel, we would have had plenty to partake in. Those events that I did enjoy were both entertaining and educational. Highlights for me, included:
-A free poolside concert by Conga Se Menne, a Finnish reggae band from Michigan, whose name translates into “Congo to Go.”

-An inspirational talk by young entrepreneur Ville Lahtinen of Outo Wear who hand-crochets each product personally, for his customers.

-Talks and music by life coach Ulla Suokko.

-Daily Finnish lessons.

-Cooking demonstrations, including gluten-free.

-Enriching and informative symposiums such as a video on Finland’s early educational system.

-Finnish folk music and dancing.

-A “Tori” square filled with vendors, music, and displays of cultural interest.

-A great one-woman show performed by comedienne Nina Sallinen.

-A rock concert featuring J Karjainen & Polkabilly Rebels, and Ismo Alanko Teholla.

Those who participate in Finn Fest to the maximum will be able to view a ‘Cleantech Business forum’ and many other important social and educational events from early in the morning, to the wee hours. Crafting workshops, morning pauses, excercise practice, and many other engaging things will allow you to experience Finland brought to you. By no means is this an inclusive list. Finn Fest can offer you countless experiences whether or not you’re Finnish. It’s definitely sure to be the basis of a great vacation for all ages.

The hotel accommodations at the place hosting Finn Fest may be a little pricey, however, if a given year is anything like this, there will be plenty of nearby accommodations from which to choose. Food was rather limited and very pricey, so you may want to go off-site for meals, though some traditional Finnish fare is featured and you can’t get that everywhere.

Next year’s events will occur in Tucson, AZ, Nov. 8th-11th. Stay tuned to the promoter’s Facebook page, for more.


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