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Dear Friends,
We hope you're enjoying the warmth and energy of summer—a season that invites us to connect, reflect, and celebrate the things that bring us home.
At Finlandia Foundation National, we're thrilled to announce that applications are now open for our 2026 Performer of the Year and Lecturer of the Year programs. These flagship opportunities allow us to spotlight outstanding talent in the Finnish-American community and share their gifts nationwide.
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We're also counting down the days to FinnFest later this month: a cherished annual gathering that brings us together in the spirit of culture, creativity, and community. We are also ramping up to continue the celebration in Hancock, MI after FinnFest and we invite you to join! Check out our schedule to take part here. We hope to see you there.
Thank you for being part of our story.
Warmly,
Thomas Flanagan
Executive Director
| | Performer of the Year and Lecturer of the Year Applications are now open! | | Applications are now open for Finlandia Foundation National’s Performer of the Year (POY) and Lecturer of the Year (LOY)—our flagship programs that spotlight outstanding talent in the Finnish-American community. Each year, we sponsor individuals to travel across the country, sharing their music, stories, scholarship, comedy, history, or even sauna culture at FFN chapter events and beyond. Whether you're a musician, writer, historian, or cultural ambassador with a passion for Finnish heritage, this is your chance to inspire audiences nationwide. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to showcase your work and help further Finnish-American culture—apply today or share with someone who should! | |
Finlandia Foundation at FinnFest
Join us at FinnFest! FinnFest is where Finns, Finnish Americans, and Finnophiles from all over come together to celebrate shared heritage, community, and culture—and Finlandia Foundation National is proud to be a big part of it. This year, we’re bringing the heat: from supporting top-tier performers and lecturers, to hosting lively talks, exhibits, music, and sauna storytelling, we’re engaging youth, honoring our elders, and sharing the magic of Finnish America in every way we can.
Catch us at Finnish Heritage Night at the Duluth Huskies game, join us at the Tori, sing with the Finnish International Choir, sit in on lectures, enjoy the Marimekko fashion show, or share your story in our Oral History Project. As proud partners of FinnFest 2025, we’re excited to welcome you into the full experience of Finnish American life.
We can’t wait to meet you, connect, and celebrate together. Come find us at the Tori!
| | | Extend the Celebration: Post-FinnFest Events in the Heart of Finnish America | | |
Why let the magic of FinnFest end in Duluth? Just a scenic four-hour drive away, Hancock, Michigan—recently named the Finno-Ugric Cultural Capital of the World—is ready to welcome you for a week of rich cultural programming, performances, exhibits, and hands-on workshops hosted by Finlandia Foundation National.
Join us August 4–6 at the Finnish American Heritage Center and Finnish American Folk School for unforgettable post-FinnFest events. From the Kivajat children’s folk dancers to live concerts by the Finnish International Choir, to new exhibits and artisan-led workshops, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to dive even deeper into Finnish American culture and community.
Learn more here.
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Finlandia Foundation Celebrates Juhannus in Hancock
Finlandia Foundation National was proud to take part in Hancock, Michigan’s citywide Juhannus Summer Solstice Celebration, honoring Finnish traditions on the longest day of the year.
This event was put on by the City of Hancock and Visit Keweenaw, and FFN's Finnish American Heritage Center team contributed to the festivities with hands-on folk crafts and a popular flower crown–making station, and more! From lakeside saunas to music, dancing, and the classic wife-carrying contest, the weekend celebrated the rich Finnish heritage that continues to shape life in the Copper Country.
Kiitos to all who joined us!
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More Ways to Get Involved — or Share with Someone Who Should!
Beyond our Performer and Lecturer of the Year programs, we’re also accepting applications for the prestigious Lindfors Legal Studies Scholarship and for speakers interested in being part of National Sauna Week 2026. Know someone who would be a great fit? Help us spread the word! Click the images below for more information! 👇
| | Deadline Approaching for Archive Digitization Position | | |
Last Call: Apply Now for Archival Digitization Specialist!
Finlandia Foundation National has received several applications — but the opportunity to join our team is still open! We’re seeking a detail-oriented archival professional passionate about digitization and emerging technologies to help preserve and share our Finnish-American heritage.
Work closely with the Archivist and national staff to catalog, assess, and digitize our collections. Don’t miss this chance. Apply by August 15th.
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Is planned giving in your future?
Join the Finlandia Legacy Society today!
| | Our legacy is our people. What’s yours? Learn more about our Finlandia Legacy Society by emailing: office@finlandiafoundation.org | | | | |
