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Finland’s Sweetest Summer Brings Joy and Surprises to Summer in Lappeenranta

The “Finland’s Sweetest Summer” campaign returns for the third time from June 1 to August 31, 2026. It can be seen and felt all around Lappeenranta, as numerous local businesses and events offer benefits and experiences that make a summer day in the city even sweeter!

As part of the campaign, 5,000 boxes of candy will be distributed to residents and visitors. Each delicious candy box includes two bags of candy made at the Fazer factory in Lappeenranta, along with one box of sweets. Please note: Candy boxes are available while supplies last and are not intended for resale.

Instructions for the Sweet Summer Adventure (or how to get your own box of candy!)

1. Find Lappeenranta’s sweetest businesses online and on the map (links coming soon).

2. Visit at least three locations and take a photo of your visit — for example, of the pink “Finland’s Sweetest Summer” sticker.

3. Stop by the tourist information office at Lappeenranta Harbor (on Sundays at the South Karelia Museum) and show the photos to a customer service representative to receive a complimentary box of candy!

The Sweetest Summer Deals

Spend an unforgettable summer day in Lappeenranta and take advantage of sweet summer offers from local businesses. There’s plenty of affordable things to do, including restaurant deals for families with children and discounts for shoppers! Summer 2026 is shaping up to be sweeter than ever, so stay tuned. Welcome for a day trip—or a longer holiday.

Learn more about the campaign benefits

The Hugely Popular Sandcastle

The Sandcastle has been a favorite destination for families with children for two generations already. Every summer, millions of kilos of sand are shaped into imaginative works of art. The theme of the Summer 2026 Sandcastle will be announced later in the spring.

Learn more about the Sandcastle

Lappeenranta Festival

Festive atmosphere for weeks at the celebration tent in Lappeenranta's historic Fortress and all around the city from 24 July to 9 August 2026! The program includes, among others, the Lappeenranta Wine Festival, Saimaa Punk Festival, Lappeenranta Metal Night, and Willi Gospel events.

Learn more

Cruises

What would a summer trip to Lappeenranta be without a cruise in the Saimaa archipelago or on the historical canal?

Explore the cruise offerings here

Event delights for every taste

Traditional summer concerts and other summer classics, along with new acquaintances, will captivate you. With Lappeenranta's event calendar, you can easily find the city's events, art exhibitions, and concerts! See you at events like these, for example:

5.–6.6. Horses at the Fortress & Lappeenranta City Races
19.6. Midsummer dance and bonfire at the harbour
24.7.–9.8.Lappeenranta Festival
28.–29.8.Harbour Lights

Explore the Summer event offerings here  (information available mainly in Finnish)

Experience the Historic Fortress and Its Museums

Discover the city’s rich and eventful history at, for example, the Cavalry Museum, located in Lappeenranta’s oldest building, completed in 1772, next to the Viipuri Gate. The Cavalry Museum features a permanent exhibition titled From Hakkapeliittas to Dashing Trousers. In summer, you may even encounter historical dragoon patrols in the area. Be sure to also visit the South Karelia Museum and the Lappeenranta Art Museum.


Explore the offerings of museums here

Sightseeing Tour

You can conveniently explore Lappeenranta by taking a sightseeing tour bus around the city. During the approximately 50-minute tour, you'll see the highlights of summery Lappeenranta, including the historic Rakuunamäki, the fortress, and beautiful views of Lake Saimaa, all while learning about the city's history through narration and pictures. Children under 6 ride for free!

Cultural holiday in Lappeenranta

The enchanting 17th-century fortress, museums, unique cafés and artisan shops, along with a high-quality cultural offering, guarantee an unforgettable holiday for culture lovers!

Gather all the ingredients to your cultural holiday here

Summer holiday tips for families with children

Lappeenranta offers families with children lots to do, see and events to attend to. By the beautiful Lake Saimaa, there is plenty to experience both in the city center and its surrounding areas.
 
See the tips here