For Eurovision fans who can’t wait for the big one in Sweden in May, the pre party starts in the Finnish city of Tampere this February. Finns go crazy for Eurovision – it’s a big deal across the country but Tampere is the place to be this year for serious Eurovision aficionados. Tampere is a self-confessed Eurovision ‘wannabe’ host city and hopeful that this year’s Finnish entry will bring that dream to life in 2025.
For now, preparations are underway as Tampere gets set to host UMK24 – the biggest music show in Finland. The concert will see seven acts compete against each other at the city’s Nokia Arena. The acts will battle it out on stage and the lucky winner will represent Finland at the world-famous Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final in Malmo, Sweden in May.
Finland’s biggest music show includes performances by the seven spectacular UMK contestants, a performance by the reigning UMK champion Käärijä, and show-stopping opening and interval acts by top Finnish artists.
The competition aside, Tampere is going to be one big carnival and visitors can join in the fun as Eurovision fever takes over the city. There will be Eurovision themed parties, cocktails and the whole city will be decked out in a bright pink and purple colour scheme – even the tram drivers are sporting pink bow ties! Many of Tampere’s streets, restaurants, bars, saunas, hotels, workplaces, vehicles, and landmarks will be buzzing with UMK and Eurovision fever.
In addition to the UMK action and pre-Eurovision party, visitors can experience all this Finnish city has to offer. Tampere is the Sauna Capital of the World, and home to most public saunas in Finland. Tampere has almost 60 public saunas in the city and the surrounding region preserving the unique Finnish sauna tradition and highlighting its significance as part of the country’s customs, culture, and well-being. This is definitely the place to be if you want to feel good!
Tampere is an ideal short break destination for trying somewhere new and discovering the secrets of one of Europe’s coolest and unique cities. If you want a bit of history, culture, cracking food, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Tampere has it all. It’s a destination that captures the essence of what makes the Nordic nations so great.
Urban experiences, culture, nature and now pre- Eurovision fun – head to Tampere for a city break to remember. You’ll soon see why it’s the Finns’ favourite city. Plus, in a country that has regularly topped the world happiness index, a weekend break here is sure to chase away the winter blues.
It’s no secret that the city of Tampere has high hopes of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest one day and by winning the hearts of Eurovision fans worldwide that dream might just come true. For now it’s going to be the best warm up pre-party ever.
UMK24 and pre-Eurovision city party
Where: Tampere, Finland
Dates: 10-12 February 2024
How to get here:
Flights and connections to Tampere are available from a number of European cities.
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