The Vaasa Choir Festival is one of Finland’s most vibrant and welcoming music event. It brings together choirs and vocal ensembles from across the country and around Sweden. Held annually in the coastal city of Vaasa, the festival marks the joyful culmination of the singing season and transforms the entire city into a stage filled with music.
A Rich History of Choral Tradition
First established over three decades ago, the Vaasa Choir Festival has grown into a major international celebration of choral music. Now it was held for the 32nd time. The festival has built a strong reputation for its open and inclusive spirit. Unlike many music festivals, it is not a competition, but a communal event focused on sharing music, meeting other performers, and creating memorable experiences together.
Over the years, the festival has expanded beyond traditional concert halls to include performances in churches, schools, shopping centres, restaurants and public spaces— making choral music accessible to everyone.
The 2026 Festival
The Vaasa Choir Festival 2026 took place from 14–16 May. It filled the city with dozens of concerts and events. Visitors could enjoy a diverse programme ranging from classical choral works to contemporary pop and a cappella performances. With both large-scale concerts and intimate shows across multiple venues.
This year’s highlights included performances by renowned Finnish ensembles such as Club for Five, the Helsinki Chamber Choir (together with the Vaasa City Orchestra), and the Jyväskylä Female Choir. In total, the festival features more than 74 choirs, offering a rich variety of styles and musical traditions.
Alongside ticketed main concerts, the programme also included a wide range of free events. Making it easy for everyone to experience the power of live choral music. Throughout the festival, Vaasa comes alive with spontaneous performances, collaborative projects, and unique musical encounters.
Experience the Power of Song
The Vaasa Choir Festival is more than just a series of concerts—it is a celebration of community, creativity and the universal language of music. Whether you are a passionate choir enthusiast or a curious visitor, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the joy of singing in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
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