Festival Grannies at Harmaa Rinne After Ski

The Festival Grannies bring a touch of local spirit to an event that draws crowds of visitors to Ruka!

Something new and unique will take place in Kuusamo at the end of March, when the Festival Grannies make their debut at the Harmaa Rinne After Ski event.

Published Feb 26, 2026.

Festival Grannies is a warm‑hearted concept, represented this time by one granny and one grandpa. They are senior residents of Kuusamo who embody the area’s genuine and welcoming character. The granny and grandpa will roam the event area to meet party‑goers. They are approachable, cheerful, and helpful – the very heart of Kuusamo hospitality.

“I’ve been to plenty of festivals myself! I especially remember trips to Kemi and Kemijärvi. When I was younger, there weren’t really opportunities to go anywhere,” says Festival Grandpa Heino Ervasti.

You can ask the Festival Grannies anything about Kuusamo: what it’s like to live here, what everyday life looks like, or how the world appears through the eyes of an older generation. They bring to events a breeze of local wisdom, gentle humour, and genuine presence.

The mission of the Festival Grannies is simple but important – to be there for people. They help those who get lost, offer tips, and provide friendly conversation. And if your toes are cold, ask the granny (or grandpa) for help. Warmth is guaranteed!

The Festival Grannies remind us that events are not just about the programme – they are about encounters and community.

Festival Grannies’ Top 5 Tips for Surviving Harmaa Rinne After Ski:

Dress warmly – long johns might be a very good idea!
After Ski is even more fun if you’ve first enjoyed the slopes – so reserve some time for skiing.
Take care of your friends!
Make sure your phone is charged – you’ll want photos to remember your After Ski day.
Come hungry – there’s plenty of delicious food available in the area!

The Festival Grannies are also part of the Oulu2026 programme.

“The idea originated during the Event Seminar held in Ruka in autumn 2024. The thought stayed with us, and we developed it further. We realised it had novelty value that could also appeal to the European Capital of Culture programme – and indeed, it was accepted. The Festival Grannies are an excellent way to highlight local identity at events,” says Niina Kukka, Event Manager at Ruka‑Kuusamo Tourism.

Harmaa Rinne After Ski will take place on 27–28 March 2026 at the Ruka Ski Stadium. It has grown into Finland’s largest after ski event. The two‑day celebration brings thousands of party‑goers to the fell to enjoy live music, the spring‑winter atmosphere, and a unique after ski culture. Top names of the Finnish music scene perform on stage every year, combining a relaxed party spirit with the experiential ambiance of Ruka.

More information:
Niina Kukka, Event Manager, Ruka‑Kuusamo Tourist Association, tel. +358 40 772 8213, niina.kukka@rukakuusamo.fi.

Harmaa Rinne After Ski