Everyone can participate in the festival!

Pelimanni performers; players, dancers and singers are the heart of Kaustinen Folk Music Festival.

A Warm Welcome to the Heart of Folk Music! Join us in celebrating the joy of summer at the 59th Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, held from July 13th to 19th, 2026. Discover an unforgettable lineup of music, culture, and togetherness in the happiest days of the summer!

The festival follows the principles of a safer space. More information is available at: Kaustinen.net/info.

Warmly welcome to apply for the 59th Kaustinen Folk Music Festival!

Pelimanni performers; players, dancers and singers are the heart of Kaustinen Folk Music Festival. It is time to apply to be a performer on the happiest days of summer.

If you are performing folk music, folk dance or more modern production based on them and want to get involved in creating a unique atmosphere of a family-friendly festival and present your music to a dedicated festival audience, do not hesitate to apply!

You may apply as a performer, if you are

• a solo performer
• a band or a group (2-50 person, and if you have a bigger group, please contact the festival office)
• a choir / singing group
• a folkdance group (accompanied with live music, no recorded music)

Apply by filling out the form below:
An application form for Pelimanni performers (opens in a new window)

The application is open until Sunday 18.1.2026 at 6 pm.

Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to application-related questions during the weekend.
Please submit your application well in advance..
Thank you very much!

NOTE! This application form is meant for performers (pelimanni), who want to perform and enjoy the festival atmosphere at Kaustinen without financial compensation. Approved Pelimanni performers pay a registration fee for their participation, which confirms their place at the festival.

The Pelimanni performer application for the 2026 festival has now closed.

Warm thanks to everyone who submitted an application!

Unfortunately, we are no longer able to accept applications for summer 2026.
The application for the 2027 festival will open in December this year – please keep an eye on this page and follow our social media channels for updates.

In the meantime, you are warmly welcome to come and enjoy an amazing programme of folk music and folk dance during the happiest days of the summer at the 59th Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, 13–19 July 2026!

The festival is committed to the Safer Place policy. For more information, visit Kaustinen.net/info.

Pelimanni performer application schedule 2026

• The Pelimanni performer application closed on Sunday, 18 January 2026 at 6 pm.
• Mikäli hakemuksestanne puuttuu If your application is missing an audio or performance sample, please send the link as soon as possible, but no later than Wednesday, 21 January,, niin toimitattehan linkin pikimmiten, kuitenkin viimeistään ke 21.1. to pelimannit@kaustinen.net.
  • Please note: Upload the sample to YouTube first and then send the link by email.
  • Audio samples help speed up the application process and support possible programme scheduling.
• The invoice for the registration fee will be sent separately by email to the group’s contact person during January, and no later than 10 February . Please contact valtteri.valo@kaustinen.net if you have not yet received the invoice. Thank you!
• The due date for the registration fee is 15 February 2026.
• The application will automatically lapse if the fee is not paid by the due date (15 February).
• Performer selections will be communicated to contact persons in April–May. The contact person is responsible for sharing the information with the rest of the group.
  • Names and other details of group members will be collected during the spring. Instructions will be sent to contact persons by email.
• Performance times and venues will be communicated to contact persons May-June.

Booking for Pelimanni accommodation will open during the spring. We will share more information via the Pelimanni newsletter and on our website.

Conditions and benefits for those accepted as official Pelimanni performers

• Performer wristband which entitles entrance to the festival area and all events on all festival days.
• Free music and dance workshops, seminars and a guaranteed relaxed atmosphere with thousands of friends.
• Shared / dormitory kind accommodation for a low price
• Performer meal for discount price at the Festival restaurant.
• Free instrument storage.

More details about the conditions and benefits will be announced during the spring in the Pelimanni performers letters (Pelimannikirje).

Guestions will be answered from the festival office!

pelimannit@kaustinen.net
tel. +358 40 3582 198

A large group of players; musicians, dancers and singers are heading towards the happiest days of summer and we want to offer some of you a premiere experience.

Please bear these in mind when you are with several groups:

- tight timetables and short transition periods
- possible overlaps, especially with large configurations
- there are many performers on the same days
- would it be possible for you to prioritise your proposals if the above points were to be met?

The form is filled in with the performer's / group's details.

The performer / group of performers information on members (name, year of birth, instrument) collected separately in accordance with the instructions to be sent during the spring.

 You need this information to complete the form:

• a total number of performers
• A names of all groups (applying or having applied to the festival) in which members of this group perform. Unfortunately, groups of performers registered after the closing date for applications cannot be taken into account in order to avoid overlapping performance slots.
• the dates on which the performer/group can perform at the festival
• Link to sound sample, music video or performance recording. Please, upload the video on YouTube and add the link to this form.

Performers and groups approved as an official performer will receive:

• Performer wristband which entitles entrance to the festival area and all events on all festival days.
• Free music and dance workshops, seminars and a guaranteed relaxed atmosphere with thousands of friends.
• Shared / dormitory kind accommodation for a low price
• Performer meal for discount price at the Festival restaurant.
• Free instrument storage.

More details about the conditions and benefits will be announced during the spring in the Pelimanni performers letters (Pelimannikirje).

Guestions will be answered from the festival office!

pelimannit@kaustinen.net
tel. +358 40 3582 198

Approved Pelimanni performers pay a registration fee to confirm their participation, which secures their place at the festival.

The registration fee is a small, size-based contribution that supports the sustainable organisation of the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival and helps ensure its vitality for years to come. This fee enables the festival to remain a meeting place, a learning environment, and a shared celebration where Pelimanni performers; musicians, dancers, singers and audiences can gather, learn, and pass on traditions together. If a group is not selected as an official performer, the fee will be refunded. Theme groups, international groups, and Master Folk Musicians are exempt from the fee.

After submitting the application, the group’s contact person will receive an invoice via email with a due date of February 15, 2026..
If the group is not selected as an official festival performer, the fee will be refunded.

NOTE: The application will be rejected if the invoice is not paid by the due date.

The registration fee is based on the group size:

1–4 people: €20 / group

5–12 people: €40 / group

13–25 people: €80 / group

Over 25 people: €120 / group

There is no registration fee for international (from outside Finland) groups or groups according to a regional theme.

Criteria for the Regional Theme Groups
A group applying as a regional theme group must either be based in the area of the regional theme, or at least half of its repertoire must originate from that region. The group should also be willing to represent the region as part of the festival programme.

A Kaustinen-based group must operate in the Kaustinen region, at least half of its repertoire must originate from the region’s traditional area, and the group must wish to represent the Kaustinen regional tradition.

The 2026 festival theme “Hands - On Traditions” highlights the traditions of making by hand: craftsmanship, instrument building, costume creation, and creative modification — everything through which tradition is passed from one maker to another in a tangible way.

The vitality of folk music and dance depends not only on performers and performances, but also on the skills and knowledge that enable them: the building of instruments, the making of costumes, the use of natural materials, and creative hands-on work. The theme brings visibility to these tradition bearers who often work behind the scenes.

The theme also aims to encourage people to take part in practical, hands-on activities: to make, try, explore materials, participate, and share their knowledge. In this way, the festival becomes both a stage for tradition and a living continuum — a space where everyone has the chance to take tradition into their own hands, literally.

“Traditions in Our Hands” celebrates artisans, makers, and skilled creators. It brings tradition into view — something to touch, experience, share, and preserve for the future.

The regional theme for 2026 is Northern Ostrobothnia.

Theme of the Folk Music and Folk Dance Promotion Centre 2026 " Strength from the Roots show also in the programme.

The 2026 theme invites us to return to our roots — to explore where we come from and what our own traditions can offer us. Each of us has a story that begins with our roots: the soil of our home region, the tales of our family, and the tunes and dances of our community.

Performers are encouraged to take the themes under consideration if possible, of desinsngprogramming for next summer’s celebrations.

Here is a picture and the full table and price.
Orders through your group contact person, so please contact your group contact person.

For Finnish Folk Dance groups

Apply for the ”Better divided” section of the programme 31.1.2025 and make it possible for your group to perform in the pulse of the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival. Folk dance groups that do not have their own band and are ready to jump into a collaboration with musicians can apply.

The software used to apply must be an existing piece (6-10 min), with the possibility to change and adapt the songs to suit the composition of the "Better Together" band.

Application time has ended.

More information can be found on the page Kaustinen.net/shared-better

The festival shuttle bus takes you smoothly from your accommodation to the festival area and back – no parking stress.
Show your performer wristband and travel for free on the Kaustinen–Veteli and Nikula–Pelimannitori routes.

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Trips to and from Kokkola cost €8 each way.

NEW This year a minibus runs from Halsua via Tastula, Vintturi and Köyhäjoki to Pelimannitori.

From Halsua the fare is €8, but travel is free from Tastula, Vintturi and Köyhäjoki with your performer wristband.

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Schedules and routes are available here: Kaustinen.net/festival-bus/

Pelimanni performer – Welcome to the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival!

When you arrive at the festival, please come via the Music High School (Musiikkilukio) to collect your performer wristband and sort out any accommodation matters.

Please take note of the following before your arrival:

Check-in:

• At the performer reception, you will receive your personal performer wristband and the festival programme.
• Note! No new names will be added to the group list at the reception. Any changes (e.g. substitutes) must be reported in advance by the group’s contact person. If you're unsure whether your name is on the list, please contact your group contact as soon as possible.

Opening hours:

• If you know you’ll arrive outside performer reception opening hours (Sun 12–18, Mon–Sat 9–21), please contact the reception by phone or email. In that case, your wristband can be reserved for pickup at the info desk with valid ID.
• If you arrive unexpectedly outside opening hours and no wristband has been reserved for you, the info staff can verify your access rights based on separate instructions and a valid ID.

Others than performers:

• Companions, family members, and helpers are warmly welcome to the festival – please note that unless a special agreement has been made in advance, they will need to cover their own entry.
• Special guardian passes must be arranged in advance through groups contact person. Please also note any discounted tickets announced separately!

Below is a map of the Music High School to help you find your way.

During the festival, two information points, a performer reception desk, and an accommodation office are available to assist folk musicians and all festival visitors.

The Music High School Info Desk is open 24/7
from Monday, July 7 at 12:00 until Sunday, July 13 at 12:00.

The Festival Yard Info Point is open
Tuesday, July 8 – Saturday, July 12 from 10:00 to 20:00.

Performer Reception at the Music High School is open July 6–12, 2025:

Sunday: 12:00–18:00
(We kindly ask performers from Kaustinen and nearby areas to pick up their wristbands on Sunday if possible.)
Monday: 9:00–10:00 and 12-21
Tuesday–Saturday  9:00–21:00

Accommodation Office The Accommodation Office at the Music High School is open July 7–13, 2025:

Monday: 9:00–21:00
Tuesday–Saturday: 9:00–21:00
Sunday: 9:00–15:00

If you arrive outside of the listed opening hours, please let both the performer reception and accommodation office know in advance. Thank you!

Calling line serves at the music school:

Mon 7.7.- Sat 12.7. from 8am to 2pm
Sun 13.7. at 8-12

As a general rule, the musical instrument section is intended for musical instruments. When the music corner is closed, the music school's info desk is available to help you with any questions you may have about the music corner.

Performer Reception esiintyjavastaanotto@kaustinen.net , tel. +35840 130 4514

Accommodation Office pelimannimajoitus@kaustinen.net , tel. +35840 573 9275

Info info@kaustinen.net , tel. +35840 170 1966

First Aid tel. 040 707 9869

We are delighted to have you with us to create a unique festival – a warm thank-you in advance for your music and presence!

• The festival is mainly an  outdoor event, and most of the stages are located outside – many are covered, but not all. Please dress according to the weather and take care to protect your instruments if needed.
  So be prepared for changing weather when dressing and protecting your instruments.
• Each stage runs on a strict scheduleto keep the day’s program running smoothly and ensure that every performer gets their moment on stage. Please arrive at your stage well in advance of your set time.
• In case of rain , performances will not be moved to indoor or alternate locations – unfortunately, no replacement stages are available.We kindly ask for your understanding regarding the unpredictability of the weather. Sunny skies have been ordered – we're just waiting for confirmation!
• If your performance is cancelled, you may inquire about extra performance opportunities. These are arranged depending on available resources but unfortunately cannot be guaranteed in advance.
  Please send any inquiries by email to pelimannit@kaustinen.netthank you.

Let’s make this festival week warm-hearted and unforgettable – together!

The festival kicks off with pelaman coffees at Mondo from 15-17.Come and see who's already arrived, meet some familiar faces and get to know new pelimans - and have a good coffee!

This will be followed by a Perintenen kaustis parade led by Mauno Järvelä on the slope of Pelimannitalo.

We would like to welcome you to play with us from 16.30-17 on the slope of the Pelimann House!

Below is a list of the pieces to be played, and the sheet music can be found in the so-called Kaustinen colour booklets.
If you don't already have them, you can order yours from the Folk Music Institute. Click here to go to the Folk Music Institute's online shop.

PARTICIPATION IN THE PARAPET

Come at XX A musical instrument tuned to the slope of the Pelimann House. Please bring everything you need; sheet music, stand, chair. You can leave your instrument cases XX???
After the playoffs, the Kaustis players will continue to the KPO arena. This is the signal for you to move to the benches to watch the opening ceremony. Thank you for playing with us!

Even the most dedicated pelimanni performer needs food throughout the day to stay energized for performances and festival fun – and to enjoy a smooth journey to the next gig. During the festival (July 7–13), you can get a pelimanni discount on food and coffee by showing your performer wristband at the following places:

Festival Restaurant at the Primary School

Breakfast Tue-Sun 8-10.00
Hot meals Mon-Sat 11.00-20

Marjaananville's Cafe under the glass canopy at the Upper School

Mon 19:00–00:00
Tue–Sat 10:00–00:00

The Festival Arena food alley offers a variety of tasty options – open until late into the night. Be sure to check it out!

Festival restaurant
Lunch list 7.-12.7.2025

Monday 7.7.

Creamy chunky roast (L,G)
Breaded fish tartar sauce (L)
Summer potato
Root load (veg.)

Tuesday 8.7.

Meatballs with cream sauce (L,G)
Muusi(L)
Macaroni box (L)
Edamame bean ratatouille with tomato sauce (veg.)

Wednesday 9.7.

Creamy salmon box (L,G)
Pork roast with red wine sauce
Summer potato
Pasta with okra (veg.)

Thursday 10.7.

Chicken cutlet with curry sauce (L,G)
Rice
Ham couscous (L,G)
Vegetables Tikkamasala (veg)

Friday 11.7.

Karelian roast
Boiled potatoes
Steamed seitan fillet with tomato sauce (L,G)
Soy Bolognese pasta (veg.)

Saturday 12.7.

Ham pasta (L.G.)
Honey pepper chicken (L.)
Oatmeal(veg.)
Vegetable roast (veg.)

Lunch includes a salad bar, drinks, breads and spreads, coffee/tea and a biscuit.

Dietary information:

L=Lactose-free
G=Gluten-free
M=Maidoton
Veg=Vegan

For more information on allergens, please contact our staff.

We reserve the right to make changes.

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival features 26 unique stages in the festival park – each with its own character. The happiest days of summer extend from the festival grounds to the warm-hearted meeting places around the village, and pelimanni performers even bring joy to the elderly at the local care home.

Explore the stages at Kaustinen.net/lavas (opens in a new window)

A detailed map is available at: Kaustinen.net/map-2025

Same in English

On the Kaustinen festival grounds, there are radios used by authorities as well as frequency-coordinated wireless microphones and in-ear monitors reserved for official festival use.

For this reason the use of your own wireless microphones, instrument transmitters and earphones is strictly forbidden..

You are allowed to use your own sound system in Kalliokrouvi and Wiljami.

Please remember to set up and take down your equipment within your scheduled performance time. Let’s make sure every performer gets to start their set on time.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Pelimanni Accommodation – For performers accepted as official pelimanni

• Accommodation is always booked separately and is not automatically included for performers.

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival arranges shared pelimanni accommodation in classrooms, gyms, or sports halls. Groups are assigned accommodation based on performance days, group size, and transport needs. Festival buses serve more distant locations.

Price: €25–35 / person / night  

• Sports Hall €35, other locations €25
• Accommodation covers the night between performance days.
• Price includes a mattress, blanket, and pillow (more details in the form).

You can book personally or via your group’s contact person. 

Booking Accommodation

• The electronic Pelimanni Accommodation form is open (opens in a new window).
• Book by June 15 at 23:59 for yourself or your group.

• - Kaustinen.net/pelimannimajoitus
• email: pelimannimajoitus@kaustinen.net  

Check out other accommodation options on our website!

Please remember to do the following while reminiscing Teosto's presentation announcement, it takes no time at all for the authors of the songs to receive the compensation they deserve. Thank you!
This link will take you to the application form.

We also want to hear how the festival went from the players' point of view. The festival is evolving year on year, so it's vital to get first-hand information from you, the performers. The feedback survey will be sent to the contact persons after the festival to pass on and will be published on this page. Thank you already at this stage for your feedback!

A warm thank you to all the performers; dancers, musicians and singers for the happiest days of summer 2024!

We greatly appreciate your feedback and would like to hear how you thought the festival went. Please send us your feedpack by email to info@kaustinen.net by 31 August 2024.

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The Master Folk Musician, the Master Folk Singer and the Master Folk Dancer (Mestaripelimanni) is a title awarded by the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival to a person who, with his or her traditional skills, abundant repertoire or other significant merits, has promoted folk music or folk dance and promote their pursuit. The Masters have been named since 1970.

Applications for Master Folk Musicians, Dancers and Singers can be sent throughout the year. The applications can be sent to matti.hakamaki@kaustinen.fi or give a call to +358 40 574 1917.

Alta löytyy aikaisempina vuosina nimetyille mestaripelimanneille tarkoitettu ilmoittautumislomake kesän juhlia varten. Pyydämme teitä ystävällisesti täyttämään ilmoittautumislomakkeen 31.1.2026 mennessä.

- (Avautuu uuteen ikkunaan.)

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The festival program is complemented by concerts completed by folk music and folk dance professionals. All festival guests and enthusiasts will be able to participate in a workshops of many professionals throughout the festival week.

Performers applying for an artist gets paid for their performance. The free-form application can be submitted either by e-mail directly to the Program Director firstname.lastname@kaustinen.net or to artists@kaustinen.net. Offers should be sent during August to December.

NOTE! We get so many artist offers that unfortunately not all posts can be answered. However, all applications will be reviewed, and each potential band or group will be contacted in person. Inriquiries can be made either by email or by phone directly from the Program Director.