#Finland #Helsinki #Eurovision #Sauna Culture

Helsinki Addresses Sauna Misconceptions Ahead of Eurovision Event

As the vibrant festivities surrounding Eurovision 2025 ignite excitement across Europe, Helsinki, Finland, seizes the opportunity to clarify important misconceptions about one of its most cherished customs: the sauna. For many international visitors, the idea of entering a sauna can evoke feelings of uncertainty. Questions arise: Do you have to be naked? Is it acceptable to talk? And what’s with the hats?

The city embraces the notion that there is no universally correct way to experience a sauna. Sanna Forsström, the Head of Brand Events for the City of Helsinki, reflects on the cultural significance of saunas, stating, "It’s time to forget the rules and rituals you might have heard. In Helsinki, the sauna is a reflection of freedom, self-expression, and social connection."

In Finland, the sauna is not merely a place for relaxation; it is woven into the fabric of daily life. With over 60 public saunas available in Helsinki alone — a significant drop from the 120 operating in the 1940s — sauna culture remains vital for both locals and tourists alike. These establishments vary from architectural marvels like Löyly and Allas Sea Pool to more traditional community spaces such as Sompasauna, a self-service sauna beloved by locals.

A Welcoming Tradition

In Helsinki, sauna usage transcends age and social backgrounds. Residents partake in these steamy retreats as a celebrated ritual, often on a daily basis. Forsström emphasizes the personal nature of the sauna experience: "Once inside, many are surprised to find how relaxed, diverse, and personal the experience truly is. For visitors, the sauna often becomes one of the most memorable parts of their stay."

As Eurovision fever sweeps through the city, the sauna experience gains additional visibility. A unique promotional effort showcases locals representing various sauna styles, featured on digital posters throughout the city. This initiative also extends to Basel, where the Eurovision event is being held, reminding fans that sauna culture is both accessible and personally curated.

Events Celebrating Sauna Culture

This year, Helsinki is set for an exhilarating celebration, as Erika Vikman represents Finland in the competition while KAJ — a group comprised mostly of Helsinki residents — performs under the Swedish flag. To mark this occasion, Helsinki is hosting several sauna-themed events across the city. From May 15 to 17, Helsinki invites Eurovision enthusiasts to partake in "Bara Bastu," a public sauna experience on Djurgården Island in Stockholm, allowing participants to immerse themselves in Finnish sauna culture.

Closer to home, the SAUNAVISION public pre-party kicks off at Töölönlahdenpuisto, where locals and visitors can sample from approximately ten different saunas before the Grand Final. Other opportunities for relaxation include Kyrö Distillery’s sauna and the newly launched Super Terrace downtown.

The Essence of Sauna

Sauna culture is foundational to Finnish identity, illustrated by UNESCO’s recognition of the practice as an intangible cultural heritage. Recent statistics reveal that Finland boasts around 3.3 million saunas for its population of 5.5 million, leading to an impressive ratio of one sauna for every 1.67 people.

Approximately 90% of Finns engage in sauna practices at least weekly, with many indulging multiple times a week. The invigorating cycle of transitioning between the intense heat of the sauna and a quick plunge into cold water is not just refreshing; it enhances mood by releasing endorphins.

Tips for First-Time Sauna-Goers

For those new to sauna culture, here are a few friendly suggestions:

• - Personal Comfort is Key: There are no stringent regulations; understanding your own comfort levels is crucial.
• - Welcoming Environment: Saunas are open to everyone — children, elders, locals, and travelers alike.
• - Dress Code: Different establishments may have particular guidelines. Swimsuits are common in public mixed saunas, but towels are always acceptable.
• - Stay Hydrated: Drinking water is essential before and after sauna sessions.
• - Time Management: There are no strict time limits; exit the sauna when you feel hot.
• - Why Wear a Hat? Many wear felt hats to help regulate body temperature, keeping cool in the heat.

When experiencing a sauna in Helsinki, don’t hesitate to ask locals for guidance — they are eager to share their intimate knowledge and appreciations of this Finnish tradition. So as Eurovision approaches, step into Helsinki’s world of saunas — the experiences are personal, diverse, and ultimately enriching.

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For more information about Helsinki's sauna culture, you can contact Leena Karppinen, Senior Manager, PR Communications at Helsinki Partners.