Get Happy In Helsinki

The World Happiness Report has anointed Finland as the happiest place on earth for six years running…..and it’s part due to the country’s penchant for the arts.

In Helsinki, the capital of Finland – the country has a relatively small population of 5,5 million people – it is said that art and culture make the place one of best on the planet to live and visit.

According to the UN-published report, Finns rate highly on key issues such as a high level of education, affordable healthcare, social stability, and positive work-life balance.

But it's not just these societal indicators that affect how Finns view their quality of life – culture and art are highly prized aspects as well.

"We see a vibrant cultural sphere that is accessible and affordable for all citizens, as a major contributor to everyday happiness. And we look at culture through a broader lens: from urban city culture, to sauna culture, to high-end cultural offerings such as the world-famous Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s a diverse mix," says Reetta Heiskanen, Deputy Culture Director at the City of Helsinki.

In Helsinki, cultural events are designed for everybody, regardless of their socioeconomic status, and the city's expanding cultural life makes it a more exciting and diverse place for residents and visitors.

"Good examples are the Helsinki Festival and Flow Festival that draw international music lovers and urban hipsters to the city every August and, as part of the Culture Kids program, every child from Helsinki born in the 2020s is given a cultural institution as a ‘host’, ensuring that all youngsters achieve a personal connection with the arts,” she added.

But what good are interesting cultural offerings if you don't have the time and energy to enjoy them?

The answer is Finland's emphasis on work-life balance. This year, Helsinki came second in the Forbes worldwide work-life balance index of major cities. Generous paid leave and flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid and remote working, were among the factors cited for the high ranking.

"It means that you can build a successful career and still have enough time and energy for a flourishing personal life and cultural experiences. A vibrant culture creates an attractive city that is easy to fall in love with," Heiskanen concludes.

Unleash Your Curiosity About Finnish Culture
This year offers unique cultural offerings in Helsinki throughout the year. There are multiple exhibition openings, such as the world-famous Tom of Finland and Albert Edelfelt, in Ateneum, Finnish National Museum of Art, which will open its doors after a year-long renovation, and Helsinki Biennial, a contemporary art event, taking place for the second time this summer from June 12th until September 17th.

When traveling to Helsinki, www.MyHelsinki.fi is the official website of the city marketing company Helsinki Partners, and the local guide to discovering some of the most inspiring sights, events, and novelties the city has to offer.