Child Fair 2027

Language

Helsinki is bilingual in Finnish and Swedish, and English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and at Messukeskus. Stage programme content at Lapsimessut is mainly in Finnish, so ask exhibitors for English product details at the stand.

Payments and cash

Finland is close to cashless: cards and mobile payments work everywhere at the venue and in shops, and some cafes no longer accept cash. Keep a card ready for tickets, food and stand purchases.

Tipping and service

Tipping is not expected. Service is included in prices, and rounding up is enough in a cafe or taxi. Queuing is orderly and staffed service desks use numbered tickets.

Children in public spaces

Children are welcome in Helsinki cafes, restaurants and public transport, and breastfeeding in public is accepted. Prams are common on trams and trains, though the busiest services at rush hour are harder with a large stroller.

Photography and privacy

At a children's fair, ask before photographing other families' children or filming in play areas. Many exhibitors photograph their own stands only, and Finnish parents are generally private about images of their children.

Food and allergies

Finnish food labelling is strict on allergens and many menus mark gluten-free and lactose-free options. Tap water is drinkable, lunch service at the venue peaks around 12:00-13:30, and children's portions are common.

Alcohol rules

Alcohol is sold in state-run Alko shops and, for lower-strength drinks, in supermarkets with time limits. A children's fair day rarely involves alcohol, but note that licensed service ends earlier than in many European cities.

Sauna culture

If you use a hotel or public sauna, expect gendered or mixed sessions depending on the venue, and bring a towel. Swimwear is standard in public saunas; ask at reception about family sauna hours.

Weather in late April

Expect 0-8 C, gusty wind, rain showers and occasionally leftover snow. The halls are warm and climate-controlled, but the walk from Pasila station and the car parks is exposed, so dress in layers with a windproof outer shell.

Holidays and transport

Vappu on 1 May and the Easter period can shift opening hours and run public transport on Sunday timetables. Check HSL service information for your dates and buy multi-day ABC-zone tickets in the HSL app.

Tax-free shopping

Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on purchases taken home, with minimum spend thresholds and paperwork handled by the retailer. Ask stand staff about tax-free receipts before paying for larger items such as prams or furniture.

Accessibility and assistance

Helsinki's trams, trains and the Messukeskus halls are largely step-free, and service desks can advise on accessible routes and lifts. Confirm assistance in advance with your airline and HSL if you travel with a wheelchair or a large pram.