Avajaiset Opening
Opening Convocation: Hidden in Plain Sight
FinnFest USA 2026 begins with music, poetry, ceremony and the Finnish American stories woven through the nation’s history.
This event is part of FinnFest USA 2026, September 17–20 in Minneapolis.
Some stories shape a nation and still remain hidden in plain sight. On Thursday evening, FinnFest brings those stories into the room—and officially opens four days of music, ideas, history, art, wellness and community in Minneapolis.
Emceed by Justin Juntunen, the 2026 Opening Convocation will feature welcomes, the national anthems of Finland and the United States, dignitary greetings, music, poetry and reflections on important Finnish American anniversaries. Together, these voices reveal the people and cultural connections that have often been overlooked, from colonial America to contemporary Finland.
The Convocation is more than a ceremony. It is the shared starting point for the weekend: a chance to gather with old friends, meet new ones and understand the larger story connecting the programs that follow.
After the Convocation, stay for the evening gathering and live music beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday opens the door; Friday and Saturday fill the Hilton with conversations, workshops, the free Tori and performance; Sunday moves to the American Swedish Institute for a family-friendly finale.
Be in the room when FinnFest begins.