Lahti is a lively cultural city well known for its Sibelius Hall, Symphony Orchestra, City Theatre and varied cultural events. The Sibelius Hall is a congress and concert centre that has gained international recognition. When completed, it was Finland's biggest wooden building in a hundred years.
The creations in wood continue with the park of wooden architecture, under construction in the surroundings of the Sibelius Hall. This park is the only one of its kind in the world.
The Lahti Symphony Orchestra, renowned for Sibelius recordings, has put the city on the world map through its international awards and visits.
At Mukkula, in alternate years, the Writers' Reunion brings writers together under the oaks and the Poetry Marathon fills the parks with poetry-lovers. The Organ Festival too, is a widely appreciated international happening.
For culture enthusiasts
The Lahti City Theatre is the fourth largest theatre in Finland. Besides other drama productions, Lahti is accustomed to seeing a high standard of musicals, with visits by the country's top-ranking directors and actors. The Sibelius Hall concert programme offers a bonanza for lovers of both classical and light music - not forgetting children and youth.
Lahti is also widely known as a cradle of art education. The exhibitions at the city's Art Museum and numerous galleries are high in quality and gather a lot of visitors.
