Flow Festival in Helsinki
What comes to mind when talking about Flow Festival in Finland? "The coolest festival in Scandinavia" and an essential part of the Finnish summer. Year after year, it receives well-deserved praise from music and culture critics at DIY, NME, Clash Magazine, and Vogue. The 2019 lineup featured The Cure, Cardi B, Tame Impala, Seinabo Sey, and a dozen other notable performers. Music, food, art, video installations, workshops — it's not just a festival, but a kind of Helsinki in miniature, capturing the crystallized spirit of the city. As Flow approaches, we decided to reminisce about our festival trips to the Finnish capital.
20 Years of Experiments and Trends in the Festival Industry
The Flow Festival in Helsinki has been a key cultural event since 2004, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Over the past five years, it has provided many memorable moments. For instance, in 2019, we saw a performance by Robert Plant, and in 2020, the festival went online, offering unique home concerts. In 2021, Swedish band Little Dragon drew attention, while in 2022, Gorillaz took the stage. In 2023, Florence + the Machine delivered a standout performance. Each year, Flow's stages host world-class artists, creating a unique atmosphere.
The festival's venue, the former Suvilahti power plant, has undergone significant changes over the last ten years. This industrial area has transformed into a creative space with a distinctive vibe. Organizers make improvements annually, creating new stages and relaxation areas. Veteran stages like the Main Stage and Balloon 360° continue to attract audiences, while new spaces such as The Other Sound offer surprising musical discoveries. The festival's development has positively impacted the neighborhood, making it a popular spot for creative projects and cultural events. New cafes, shops, and art spaces have sprung up, drawing even more visitors.
Gastro-Tourism in Helsinki Through Three Days of Flow
Attending the Flow Festival is not just about music; it's also an opportunity to explore Helsinki's culinary scene. The city is famous for its restaurants and cafes, where you can savour Finnish cuisine and a modern variety of food. Visit the Hakaniemi Market for fresh seafood and farm products, and try brunch at one of the trendy cafes in the Kallio district. Pay special attention to specialty coffee: Helsinki is known for its coffee shops where you can sample unique brews and preparation methods. Our guide to Helsinki's gastronomic spots will help you make the best choices and enjoy your time to the fullest.
Plans for the Second Half of August: How to Let August Fly By and Not Miss the Flow 2024 Lineup
This year, the Flow Festival boasts a diverse lineup of artists. Headliners include Halsey, Jessie Ware, RAYE, Janelle Monáe, James Blake, PJ Harvey, whose performance promises to be unforgettable. Additionally, on our favorite Balloon 360° stage, attendees can enjoy music from artists like KOKOKO!, Nabihah Iqbal, Arooj Aftab, and Finnish indie team The Holy, whose energetic shows always capture the audience's attention. The festival will also feature performances from numerous other artists across various genres, from electronic to hip-hop.
Flow Festival 2024 promises to be an exciting event. Come to Helsinki to enjoy the music, explore the culture, and try the city's culinary delights.
