Animals roam Kalasatama, and music fills the air on the last weekend of August.
An animal-themed event open to everyone event takes over the Kalasatama area at the end of August. This animal-themed afternoon features a parade combining jazz music and animals, offering a chance to explore the art of the Kalasatama area accompanied by music. The event is part of “Sointien Kalasatama” event series.
From Mustikkamaa to Kalasatama Park
The parade sets off from the Mustikkamaa side of Isoisänsilta Bridge at 2:00 p.m. and proceeds along the waterfront toward Kalasatama Park. The procession will be led by an ensemble of musicians from the Sointi Jazz Orchestra and the Maria Baric Company’s giant animal-character puppets. Along the way, participants will explore the area’s outdoor artworks and stops, where more and more animals will join the parade.
You can join the two-kilometer-long parade either at the artwork located at Capellanaukio 1 or at the swing-themed playground in Loviseholm Park.&
At Kalasatama Park (Parrulaituri 4), the day will conclude with a 45-minute concert for the whole family at 3:00 p.m. featuring the Sointi Jazz Orchestra, featuring the performers from the parade, the giant hand puppets of the Maria Baric Company, a performing arts group. The Maria Baric Company, which combines theater, music, and dance, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. You can watch the concert at the sports field or in Kalasatama Park.
You can participate in the parade as a musician by filling out this form. A workshop for musicians will be held on Sunday, August 23, at 5:00 p.m. Participants are welcome to dress in an animal-themed outfit and bring along their favorite stuffed animal, for example.
Environmental Art in Kalasatama
Environmental artworks are regularly installed in the Kalasatama area to enhance the area’s appeal. The environmental art project is managed by the City of Helsinki’s City Executive Office in collaboration with the Urban Environment Division and the Culture and Leisure Division. The art is funded by a fee charged to developers based on floor area, at a rate of 10 euros per square meter.
The art in Kalasatama is complemented by both temporary and permanent works. In November 2025, the A Stream Among Streams art collection, curated for the HAM area, was supplemented with 25/7 sound art piece, and in the fall of 2025, a work created by the Keikenartist collective, known from the Helsinki Biennial Ángel Yōkai Atā installation.
Explore environmental art in the Kalasatama area.