The number of players at the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival increased significantly this year. A total of 4340 pelimannas performed (last year 4049), according to Pro Kaustinen ry's chairman Ira Korkala is particularly happy:
- Kaustinen played and danced for the 52nd time. Here you can always find a venue where you can play and dance.
The festival achieved its pre-set target, the same as the year before. The total number of visitors was now 46332 (last year 47083). Tickets sold accounted for 17321 of the total (17203 last year).
- We are very happy with the result. The programme and the atmosphere ensured that people stayed in the area much longer than before. The statistics show that many people came early in the morning and stayed in the area all day until late at night," says Ira Korkala.
Managing Director Silja Heikkilä is delighted with the feedback from families with children. The Children's Tent celebrated its 20th anniversary, and its familiar programme has already been handed down to a new generation.
- Kaustinen is a rare festival in Finland where children can safely run around until late at night," says Silja Heikkilä.
Next year, the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival will be held from 13 to 19 July 2020.The theme is play, and the regional theme is Kymenlaakso.
Internationalism was evident in Kaustinen this year. Traditionally, the festival is open to anyone who wants to dance and play. Photo. Arto Kuorikoski