This update come to In The Know Traveler the Visit Finland (their tourism board). -ed-

Along with the "white nights" of the Finnish Summer come unique and exciting summer festivals. The following are just a few highlights of many:

Midnight Sun Film Festival, Sodankylä, 10 June"”14 June 2009
This 24-year-old festival founded by directors Aki and Mika Kaurismäki brings leading Finnish and international directors and their works to the everlasting sunshine of the Lapland summer.
www.msfilmfestival.fi

Seurasaari Midsummer Bonfires, Helsinki, 19 June"”20 June 2009
A traditional Finnish Midsummer celebration for the whole family takes place in the in the vicinity of the Helsinki city center, on the Seurasaari Island, with Finnish folk dance and music, handicrafts, and food. The evening concludes with bonfires and Midsummer dances.
www.seurasaarisaatio.fi

Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival, Kuhmo, 12 July"”25 July 2009
Leading chamber musicians will transfix the town of Kuhmo in Eastern Finland in July with a series of concerts, set among the peacefulness of the forests, the beautiful surroundings, and under sunlit nights.
www.kuhmofestival.fi

Pori Jazz Festival, Pori, 11 July"”19 July 2009
This jazz festival is a major international event with a diversified line-up. This year, world class acts such as Duffy, Erykah Badu, and Booker T. Jones will perform amidst the beautiful surroundings on the banks of the Kokemäki River.
www.porijazz.fi

Kotka Maritime Festival, Kotka, 15 July"”19 July 2009
Finland's largest maritime carnival provides a grand setting for concerts ranging from rock to classical music, plus other theatrical exhibitions. It also marks the 130th anniversary of Kotka and plays host to visiting ships.
www.meripaivat.com

Helsinki Festival, Helsinki, 13 August"”30 August 2009

Finland's largest multi-arts festival provides events throughout Helsinki, ranging from classical music to jazz and pop, from drama to contemporary dance, and from visual art to film.
www.helsinkifestival.fi; http://www.helsinginjuhlaviikot.fi/en/news-archive/126-2009/504-al-2009-programme-has-now-been-announced-

Flow Festival, Helsinki, 14 August"”16 August 2009
An addition to the Helsinki Festival, Flow will include the hottest contemporary rhythm music from indie rock and folk to various subgenres of electronic music and swing jazz.
www.flowfestival.com; http://www.flowfestival.com/main/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/flow09-press-release-0804091.pdf

www.festivals.fi