What to do or where to go with kids? What child-friendly activities can you find in Helsinki this week? Pienten Helsinki's weekly "Where to Go This Week" series searches for activity tips and highlights family-friendly events and things to do in Helsinki and the surrounding area.

The cover image is from the playground at Kruunuvuorenranta sports park.

Commercial collaboration:
This week's "Where to Go" article is brought to you by
Dance Theatre Glims & Gloms!

The Antti Puuhaara fairy tale adventure is a fresh interpretation of a Finnish folk tale using object theatre.

At Pinkopahvila local history museum, a performance of the Antti Puuhaara play is about to begin. The audience is already seated when the museum staff receives a call from the theatre group. A misunderstanding has occurred—the group has accidentally driven to Pankopihvila instead...

To avoid having to cancel the performance that has become a tradition, the museum staff decides to take their beloved folk tale firmly in hand and tell it to the audience with their own fresh interpretation. Since the story has many characters and fairy tale creatures, the resourceful staff use the museum's objects. At the same time, the folk tale's life lessons are modernized to match the values of contemporary museums.

Jump into an imagination-tickling theatrical game!

Read more and book tickets here! Performances at Hurjaruuthi's home stage at Cable Factory only this week.

Antti Puuhaara fairy tale adventure at Hurjaruuthi's stage at Cable Factory, still on this week.
Photo by Ari Kauppila.

Current News

  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor!

MONDAY, APRIL 15, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor and desperately needs staff!
  • Dance and Play workshops for toddlers and their parents at Caisa cultural centre (Kaikukatu 4 B) in the Maissi room on Mondays at 9:15 am and 10:15 am.
    The Dance and Play workshop inspires and guides Helsinki parents and children to create and experience dance art together. You can participate in the workshop whenever it suits you—at every session or just some of them. Choose a time that works for you and arrive on time. No advance registration is needed; places are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Up to 12 people can attend. Free admission.
  • Kunkkul Family Café at Vennynpuisto event on Monday 9:30 am-11:30 am. Family café instructors will be present, offering breakfast (voluntary payment). Weather dependent. This event is part of the Play Day activities.
  • Albertin Lounge is open on Mondays 9:30 am–2 pm (International Monday).
  • Family Hulinat provide a space for children under school age and their parents to move together independently and free of charge. On Mondays, Family Hulinat is held at:

    - Family Hulinat at Tapanil Elementary School (Veljestenpiha 2) on Mondays 5–6:30 pm from January 8–April 22, 2024.

Playgrounds Open on Monday

  • Playgrounds: Playground indoor areas are open to families on weekdays mainly 9 am-12 pm; afternoons are reserved for school-age children. For more detailed information, check the playgrounds' own websites. Playgrounds share their programs on Helsinki's city event calendar and on the playgrounds' own Facebook pages.
  • At Loru Playground on Monday:
    10:30 am-11:00 am Loru's Games - an activity session for children over 1 year old
    1:00 pm-1:30 pm Kukkuluuruu - a baby session for children under 1 year old
    3:00 pm-3:30 pm Kukkuluuruu - a baby session for children under 1 year old
  • At Family Centers:
    - Family Center Naapuri (Kivikonkaari 11, Kivikko) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.
    - Family Center Sahrami (Kangasalantie 11, Vallila) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.

    - MLL's Family Center Unikko (Unikkotie 8, Pukinmäki) is an open meeting place for families and children ages 0-12. Read more on the family center's pages!

Library Events on Monday

  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor and desperately needs staff!
  • Metropolia's HyMy Village Family Café at Myllypuro Metropolia's premises (next to the metro station) on Tuesdays 9-11 am. Each session also features varying programs for families. Free admission.
  • Neuvolaparkki on Tuesdays 9:30 am–1:00 pm in the lower hall of Kampi family center. Free admission.
  • For babies and parents! Baby's Play event at Linja Playground on Tuesday starting at 10 am. The event features games and songs for babies ages 0-15 months. A free activity session led by an MLL employee and a playground instructor. This event is part of the Play Day activities.
  • Haltia Farm's sheep meadow can be visited to admire sheep and lambs on Tuesdays 10 am-2 pm through mid-May. Haltia Farm is open daily 7 am-10 pm. Cows in pasture, grilling opportunities (bring your own wood), a nice playground, and a café-restaurant on the farm. Near Haltia you'll also find Niskala Arboretum, where spring is slowly awakening. Free admission to Haltia Farm.
  • Art for Toddlers workshop (Open Studio for Toddlers Workshops) at Caisa cultural centre (Kaikukatu 4 B) on Tuesdays 1:30–3:30 pm. Workshops are suitable for children ages 1.5–3 with their own adult. No advance registration needed; free admission. You can participate for the entire workshop or just drop in for a bit.
  • MLL Myllypuro Dad Hangout at Myllynsiivi Playground on Tuesdays 6–7:30 pm. Free admission; no advance registration needed.
  • Family Hulinat provide a space for children under school age and their parents to move together independently and free of charge. On Tuesdays, Family Hulinat is held at:

    - Pallomylly indoor hall at Myllypuro sports park (Pikajuoksijankuja 9) on Tuesdays 9:30–11:30 am and 4–6 pm from January 9–April 23, 2024.

    - Käpylä Elementary School (Mäkelänkatu 89) on Tuesdays 5–6:30 pm from January 9–April 23, 2024

    - Sakarinmäki Elementary School (Knutersintie 924) on Tuesdays 5–6:30 pm from January 9–April 23, 2024.

    - Merilahti Elementary School in Vuosaari (Jaluspolku 3) on Tuesdays 5–6:30 pm from January 9–April 23, 2024.

Playgrounds Open on Tuesday

  • Playgrounds: Playground indoor areas are open to families on weekdays mainly 9 am-12 pm; afternoons are reserved for school-age children. For more detailed information, check the playgrounds' own websites. Playgrounds share their programs on Helsinki's city event calendar and on the playgrounds' own Facebook pages.
  • At Loru Playground on Tuesday:
    11–11:30 am Loru Session for children under 1 year old
    3–3:30 pm Loru's Warmth - a baby session for children under 1 year old
  • MLL's Family Center Unikko (Unikkotie 8, Pukinmäki) is an open meeting place for families and children ages 0-12. Read more on the family center's pages!

Library Events on Tuesday

  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor and desperately needs staff!
  • Naperokino at Annantalo on Wednesday 10 am-12 pm.
  • Fire Museum at Erottaja Fire Station is open Wednesdays 12–4 pm. Small admission fee.
  • Kindergarten Museum is open on Wednesday 12–7 pm. Small admission fee.
  • Family Hulinat provide a space for children under school age and their parents to move together independently and free of charge. On Wednesdays, Family Hulinat is held at:

    - Kurkimäki block house (Karpalokuja 7) on Wednesdays 9:30–11 am from January 10–April 24, 2024.

    - Kannelmäki Elementary School (Runonlaulajantie 40) on Wednesdays 5–6 pm from January 10–April 24, 2024.

Playgrounds Open on Wednesday

  • Playgrounds: Playground indoor areas are open to families on weekdays mainly 9 am-12 pm; afternoons are reserved for school-age children. For more detailed information, check the playgrounds' own websites. Playgrounds share their programs on Helsinki's city event calendar and on the playgrounds' own Facebook pages.
  • At Loru Playground on Wednesday:
    10:30 am–12:00 pm Loru Creates – crafts for all ages, Oodi 3rd floor activity room
    1:30–3:00 pm Loru Creates – crafts for all ages, Oodi 3rd floor activity room
    2–2:30 pm Story time with Helsinki Mission, Oodi 3rd floor
    2:45–3:15 pm Story time with Helsinki Mission, Oodi 3rd floor
  • MLL's Family Center Unikko (Unikkotie 8, Pukinmäki) is an open meeting place for families and children ages 0-12. Read more on the family center's pages!

Library Events on Wednesday

  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.

Pienten Suomi – Over 700 Reasons to Travel in Finland with Kids!

THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor and desperately needs staff!
  • Haltia Farm's sheep meadow can be visited to admire sheep and lambs on Thursdays 10 am-2 pm through mid-May. Haltia Farm is open daily 7 am-10 pm. Cows in pasture, grilling opportunities (bring your own wood), a nice playground, and a café-restaurant on the farm. Near Haltia you'll also find Niskala Arboretum, where spring is slowly awakening. Free admission to Haltia Farm.
  • Albertin Lounge is open on Thursdays 9:30 am–3 pm.
  • Let's Play Today! event at Linja Playground on Thursday starting at 10 am. Fossils have been discovered at Linja Playground! Come do archaeological digs led by a playground instructor. This event is part of the Play Day activities.
  • Art for Toddlers workshops (Open Studio for Toddlers Workshops) at Caisa cultural centre (Kaikukatu 4 B) on Thursdays 10 am-12 pm. Workshops are suitable for children ages 1.5–3 with their own adult. No advance registration needed; free admission. You can participate for the entire workshop or just drop in for a bit.
  • Vantaa: Tuntupolku – Experience Space for Babies and Toddlers at Pessi Children's Culture Center (Tikkurila) April 5–June 30, 2024. Open Wed-Fri 10 am–4 pm and during Pessi evening and weekend events. Free admission.
  • University of Helsinki Observatory on Tähtitornin Hill is open on Thursday 12–8 pm. Museum admission fee.

    Commercial collaboration:
  • Glims & Gloms: Antti Puuhaara fairy tale adventure at Hurjaruuthi's stage at Cable Factory on Thursday at 6 pm. Tickets €16. The performance is suitable for ages 4 and up.
  • Family Hulinat provide a space for children under school age and their parents to move together independently and free of charge. On Thursdays, Family Hulinat is held at:

    - Tali sports park soccer hall (Purotie 8) on Thursdays 9:30–11 am from January 11–April 25, 2024.

    - Kampi Sports Center (Malminkatu 3) on Thursdays 5–6:30 pm from January 11–April 25, 2024.

    - Malminkartano Elementary School (Puustellintie 6) on Thursdays 5–6:30 pm from January 11–April 25, 2024.

    - Porolahti Elementary School (Roihuvuorentie 2) on Thursdays 5:30–6:30 pm from January 11–April 25, 2024.

    - Pukinmäenkierto Elementary School mirror hall (Kenttäkuja 12) on Thursdays 5–6:30 pm from
    January 11–April 25, 2024.

Playgrounds Open on Thursday

  • Playgrounds: Playground indoor areas are open to families on weekdays mainly 9 am-12 pm; afternoons are reserved for school-age children. For more detailed information, check the playgrounds' own websites. Playgrounds share their programs on Helsinki's city event calendar and on the playgrounds' own Facebook pages.
  • At Loru Playground on Thursday:
    11:00–11:30 am Loru's Warmth – baby session for children under 1 year old
    2:30–3:15 pm Loru's Games – activity session for children over 1 year old
  • At Family Centers
    - Family Center Naapuri (Kivikonkaari 11, Kivikko) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.
    - Family Center Sahrami (Kangasalantie 11, Vallila) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.
  • MLL's Family Center Unikko (Unikkotie 8, Pukinmäki) is an open meeting place for families and children ages 0-12. Read more on the family center's pages!

Library Events on Thursday

  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.

FRIDAY, APRIL 19, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

Playgrounds Open on Friday

  • Playgrounds: Playground indoor areas are open to families on weekdays mainly 9 am-12 pm; afternoons are reserved for school-age children. For more detailed information, check the playgrounds' own websites. Playgrounds share their programs on Helsinki's city event calendar and on the playgrounds' own Facebook pages.
  • At Loru Playground on Friday:
    10:30–11:00 am Loru's Songs – a singing session for all ages, Oodi 3rd floor
    1–1:30 pm Loru's Songs – a singing session for all ages, Oodi 3rd floor
    3–3:30 pm Loru's Magic – a session with varying themes including play, movement or stories for children over 2 years old, Oodi 3rd floor.

  • At Family Centers
    - Family Center Naapuri (Kivikonkaari 11, Kivikko) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.
    - Family Center Sahrami (Kangasalantie 11, Vallila) weekly program can be found on the center's Facebook page.
  • MLL's Family Center Unikko (Unikkotie 8, Pukinmäki) is an open meeting place for families and children ages 0-12. Read more on the family center's pages!

Library Events on Friday

  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024

Finland's Play Day

Events and
Activity Tips

  • Helmet Library children's events can be found on Helmet's event page.
  • Mikämikä – Science Moment for children at Arabianranta Library on Saturday 11–11:30 am.
  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.
  • Skidimarket has opened again at Hakaniemen Market Hall on the 2nd floor and desperately needs staff!
  • - Flea Market! MLL Myllypuro Children's Clothing Flea Market at Asukastila Orpaan Tuva on Saturday 10 am-1 pm.
  • Haltia Farm's sheep meadow can be visited to admire sheep and lambs on Saturday 10 am-2 pm through mid-May. Haltia Farm is open daily 7 am-10 pm. Cows in pasture, grilling opportunities (bring your own wood), a nice playground, and a café-restaurant on the farm. Near Haltia you'll also find Niskala Arboretum, where spring is slowly awakening. Free admission to Haltia Farm.
  • Espoo: Let's Try Felting! workshop at Children's Culture Center Aurora on Saturday 10 am-2 pm. Free admission.
  • Käpylä's Soiva talo event on April 20 at Karjala House 11 am–2 pm. Free admission.
  • Vantaa: Art Carnival at Orvokki Culture Center on Saturday 11 am-2 pm. Free admission.
  • Commercial collaboration:
    Glims & Gloms: Antti Puuhaara fairy tale adventure at Hurjaruuthi's stage at Cable Factory on Saturday at 1 pm. Tickets €16. The performance is suitable for ages 4 and up.
  • Helsign 2024 families' sign language cultural event at Kanneltalo on Saturday 1–4 pm. Free admission.
  • Play Day event at Oodi Central Library on Saturday 2–4 pm. Free admission. This event is part of the Play Day activities.

SUNDAY, APRIL 21, 2024

Events and
Activity Tips

  • You can find all of Pienten Helsinki's playground tips here.
  • Family Hubbub at Tapuli Sports Center's gymnastics room on Sundays 9–11 am. Tickets €5 per family (payment in cash, card, or MobilePayat the venue).
  • Cartwheel Challenge at Tapuli Sports Center's gymnastics room on Sundays 11 am-12 pm. Free admission.
  • Haltia Farm's sheep meadow can be visited to admire sheep and lambs on Sunday 10 am-2 pm through mid-May. Haltia Farm is open daily 7 am-10 pm. Cows in pasture, grilling opportunities (bring your own wood), a nice playground, and a café-restaurant on the farm. Near Haltia you'll also find Niskala Arboretum, where spring is slowly awakening. Free admission to Haltia Farm.
  • - Flea Market! MLL Lauttasaari Children's Clothing Flea Market at Myllykallion School on Sunday 10 am-12:30 pm.
  • Vantaa: Jokileijonawalk on Sunday 12–3 pm. The Jokileijonawalk is held along the Keravanjoki River in Tikkurila. The route starts from the Theatre Square, Tikkurilantie 44, and leads to Påkaksen Local History Museum. Along the route there are nature-themed questions and lots of activities. Free admission.
  • Fire Museum at Erottaja Fire Station is open Sundays 12–4 pm. Small admission fee.
  • Skidipeli Game at Itäkeskus Library April 13-28, 2024. Free admission.
    Game is available:
    Monday to Thursday 2–8 pm
    Friday 2–6 pm
    Saturday 10 am-4 pm
    Sunday 12–6 pm
    On weekdays 9 am-2 pm the game is for school classes.
  • What should we do today? Check out tips for boring days from Pienten Helsinki!
  • Secret Helsinki article reveals small and big secrets about Helsinki!

Also Remember:

Pienten Suomi – Over 700 Reasons to Travel in Finland with Kids!

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