Ilosaari & Ilosaarirock
Ilosaari
A small island in the river at the city centre, home each summer to one of Finland's oldest major rock festivals.
Ilosaari lies in the Pielisjoki river in central Joensuu. Normally it is a leafy little park where you can walk along the riverbank to see the rapids and the old harbour. Every year in mid-July, the Ilosaarirock festival takes place on the island and along the riverside. Started in 1971, it is one of Finland's oldest and largest rock festivals, drawing tens of thousands of music fans over three days. Accommodation in town is tight during the festival, so book several months ahead. At other times the island is free to visit.
Opening hours
Park open all day; tickets required during music festival
Nearby sights
- Joensuu Town Hall
- Taitokortteli
- Joensuu Market Square
- Carelicum
- St Nicholas Orthodox Church, Joensuu
- Joensuu Art Museum Onni
- Joensuu Church
- Paha-Koli & Akka-Koli trails