From Estonia to Ilosaarirock

Estonian Marili Tomingas likes the community spirit and nature setting at Ilosaarirock.

Ilosaarirock is Marili’s first Finnish festival experience. Photo: Camilla Hanhirova

Marili, originally from Estonia, came to Ilosaarirock from Tampere, Finland, where she is doing a summer course. The main attractions for her were her friend who lives in Joensuu, and some of her favorites performing in Ilosaari, including Robin, Pariisin kevät ja especially Bastille.

– I had to come when Bastille is performing so close to me.

– I got to know my friend Laura when she was an exchange student in my university, and I’m visiting her here in Joensuu. I like Joensuu more than Tampere. The city is not too big.

Marili is not very familiar with Finnish bands.

– Finns do a lot of heavy music, but I listen mostly pop.

So far her best experience in Ilosaarirock was Samuli Putro’s gig.

– I was surprised by how big the crowd was. Everyone was singing along. The positive energy and a feeling of community was amazing.

Ilosaarirock is Marili’s first Finnish festival. But she’s heard a lot from her friends about the Finnish summer festivals.

– At first I was afraid if I would find the stages, and how will I find my way around the festival area. But I was surprised by how cozy the area is. The beach beside Rento Stage is nice and the whole area is like a park.

This is her last week in Finland for now, but she’s already making plans for next year.

Text: Suvi Koskela and Camilla Hanhirova
Photos: Camilla Hanhirova
Translation: Jaakko Suvanto