Kihaus Folk 2026 – first artist highlights

Auri – a cinematic, spellbinding concert (Church of Rääkkylä)

Auri (Johanna Kurkela, Tuomas Holopainen, Troy Donockley) moves between Celtic folk and cinematic pop. Their dreamlike soundscape finds a perfect home in the acoustics and atmosphere of Rääkkylä Church.

Frigg – the Nordic contemporary folk phenomenon

Formed in Kaustinen in 2000, Frigg has become one of the best-known Nordic folk bands. With relentless energy and a distinctive sound, the band has toured globally from major festivals to concert halls.

Lauri Schreck – reinventing the kantele for today

Lauri Schreck is a bold moderniser of Finland’s national instrument, blending traditional kantele tones with pop, rock and electronic influences. Virtuosity meets fresh, fearless expression.

Maria Kalaniemi & Timo Alakotila – accordion and piano in masterful dialogue

Accordionist Maria Kalaniemi and pianist-composer Timo Alakotila are pioneers of new Finnish folk. Their long-standing duo work is praised for its rich musical conversation and heartfelt finesse.

Veila – the world’s first “shared kantele” band

Based in Joensuu, Veila arranges pop hits for a custom-built shared kantele designed for four players. They combine the instrument with four-part vocals and strong stage presence – awarded and widely acclaimed.

Ilja Teppo – songs that make you laugh, then suddenly go quiet

Singer-songwriter Ilja Teppo moves effortlessly between humorous couplet tradition and tender storytelling. With close to 2,000 gigs behind him, he’s an artist who can hold any room. A new album is coming in 2026.

Kiertolaiset – where folk tradition collides with beats and human sound

Kiertolaiset fuse Finnish pop, tradition and electronic rhythm through the power of the human voice: beatboxing, vocal effects and raw emotion form their signature style – sometimes called junttipop.

Se on Rillumarei! – a fresh chapter for couplet tradition

A warm, funny and affectionate take on classic Finnish couplets, carried by today’s performers with new flavours while respecting the roots.

The Great Pelimanni Parade

A cherished Kihaus tradition: musicians gather under the guidance of Pentti Ojajärvi. The pelimanni spirit has been at the heart of Kihaus for decades.

The full anniversary programme and ticket sales will be published in early January in connection with the Folklandia cruise.

Welcome to Rääkkylä for the most relaxed folk festival of summer 2026!