Suomi Fest 2017: A wife-carrying, boot-throwing good time
Just as Canada is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, Finland is celebrating its 100th anniversary of independence.
And in Greater Sudbury, the Finnish community is celebrating both milestones at this year’s Suomi Fest (aka Sudbury Finn Fest), which takes place June 16-18.
The event starts on Friday in Tom Davies Square at 15:00 with a flag raising and announcement. After that, all activities, including the Friday night dance starting at 6 p.m., will be at Cambrian College.
A full day of activities is planned for Saturday. There is a Finnish art market for sale and children’s activities. The Finnish government has representatives who offer passport services to dual citizens of Canada and Finland.
On Saturday, the classic Finnish wife-carrying competition will be played, as well as rubber boots and cell phone throwing. Those interested in participating in these events should register by visiting SudburyFinnFest.com.
There will also be live entertainment throughout the afternoon, including Finnish dancers, bands and a harp choir. You can join a Finnish fashion show or a lecture about Finnish humor or perfect your Finnish roots.
Saturday ends with dinner and dancing starting at 6 p.m. accompanied by the music of the Black Tie Orchestra.
Events continue on Sunday with a service at 10 a.m., followed by a noon brunch. The festival concert with different artists starts at 2 p.m
The complete schedule of events can be found at SudburyFinnFest.comor call Tim Nordberg at 705-522-4018.