Ilosaarirock

The Ilosaarirock Festival is an unmissable event for rock music enthusiasts, held annually in Joensuu, Eastern Finland, on the second weekend of July. Established in 1971, it is the second oldest rock festival still operating in Finland and one of the oldest in Europe. With a daily attendance of 21,000 in 2007 and a consistent record of selling out from 1998 to 2011, it's evident that this festival is highly significant.

The festivities kick off on Friday and continue through Sunday, with the main events occurring on Saturday and Sunday at Laulurinne. Attendees can enjoy performances across five different stages, featuring more than 50 artists. In total, over 100 acts illuminate the Ilosaarirock weekend.

What sets this festival apart is the community spirit that fuels it. More than 1,500 volunteers come together each year to make it happen. Additionally, the festival's graphic design is selected through an open contest, adding a unique and personalized touch. It is organized by the Joensuu Pop Musicians' Association, a non-profit organization, and all profits are reinvested into supporting the local music scene in North Karelia.

Over the years, Ilosaarirock has hosted an impressive array of headliners, such as Imagine Dragons, Pixies, The 1975, Volbeat, Placebo, and Charli XCX. The lineup spans various genres, attracting music fans from all over Finland and beyond.