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How does a festival headlined by the wind, cranes and sphagnum moss sound? Held in Valkmusa National Park in Pyhtää, Finland, Hiljaa Fest invites you to slow down and listen to what is happening on the mire. The festival opens on 10 October 2026, after which this free event continues as a self-guided experience open to everyone until 31 October.
But before you read my five reasons to experience Valkmusa National Park and Hiljaa Fest, watch the video I filmed in Valkmusa in September 2026. Afterwards, you might not need any more convincing.
1. Experience a festival where nature performs on its own terms
Hiljaa Fest is described as the world’s first festival dedicated to listening to nature. Its four stages are natural locations within Valkmusa, and the line-up includes wild rosemary, gnarled pines, sundews, black grouse and cranes.
Of course, these stars do not all appear on demand, and that is precisely what makes a visit so interesting: you never know what you will discover next.
On the day Hiljaa Fest was announced, for example, I spotted a real, live lizard, which you can see in the video. I also saw a sundew—a carnivorous plant—thanks to the festival’s creative director and wilderness guide, Simo Peri, who knew where to point it out.
2. Notice more in the quiet
Valkmusa’s soundscape is not completely silent. When you stop on the boardwalk, you can listen to the wind, birdsong and the subtle sounds of the mire.
The idea behind Hiljaa Fest is simple yet appealing: make time for nature and let your attention settle on details that are easily overlooked when you are in a hurry.
And if you occasionally hear distant traffic, do not let it distract you. Close your eyes and imagine it is an approaching thunderstorm.
3. An autumn mire is a wonderful place to explore and photograph
Valkmusa reveals just how varied a mire landscape can be. The national park contains dozens of different mire types, and its boardwalks take you close to the open wetland.
Autumn brings seasonal colours, the possibility of morning mist, and the distinctive shapes of gnarled pines and mosses. For photographers, there are subjects everywhere, from sweeping landscapes to tiny details beside the boardwalk.
On a sunny day with a few clouds, the views are simply incredible. It almost feels as though you are in Lapland.
4. Explore at your own pace
The festival’s opening event on 10 October is an invitation-only occasion with limited attendance, and participants are selected by a draw. After the opening, however, Hiljaa Fest becomes a self-guided festival open to everyone.
You can choose your own day to visit and spend time in the places that interest you most. The terrain is very easy to walk, with no steep climbs. You can also take a break on the benches along the route, and the outdoor toilet at Valkmusa is very clean.
5. Enjoy a different kind of festival—for free
Taking part in Hiljaa Fest costs nothing. It also gives you a reason to discover Valkmusa National Park and experience the rare mire habitats found in Pyhtää.
Bring clothing suitable for the weather, shoes appropriate for walking on boardwalks, and something to eat for a leisurely outing.
Hiljaa Fest takes place in Valkmusa National Park in Pyhtää, Finland, from 10 to 31 October 2026.
When planning your visit, please note that the routes follow boardwalks and trails. The event is currently unsuitable for visitors who require mobility aids. Check the latest information on the Hiljaa Fest event page.
Discover more inspiring nature experiences in Finland!
Read this article in Finnish at indivue.fi
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