Ilosaarirock Festival

Ilosaarirock, known locally as the best weekend of the summer, takes place over three days in Joensuu, Eastern Finland, from the 18th to the 20th of July, 2025. The festival is held at a scenic lakeside location, and is within walking distance from the Joensuu city centre. As Finland’s second oldest rock festival as well as one of its largest, Ilosaarirock is much loved and treasured by both its guests and organizers, bringing together a crowd of around 70 000 people annually for one happy, lively and openminded weekend.

Ilosaarirock is known for its diverse and open-minded program, relaxed atmosphere, uncomplicated and friendly customer service, and its sense of responsibility. In addition, the festival’s pioneering work to reduce its environmental load has been internationally recognized and awarded.

The unincorporated, non-profit association Joensuun Popmuusikot ry (Joensuu Pop Musician’s Association) has been organizing Ilosaarirock annually since its founding in 1971. The profits from Ilosaarirock are used to support the popular culture and conservation of nature in North Karelia by distributing grants three times a year.