The popular Esplanade Park, or "Espa" for short, is often referred to as the green heart of Helsinki thanks to its central location. It serves as a passage from the centre to the market square (Kauppatori) as well as to the sea and is accessible both on foot and by bicycle.
On both sides, the park is densely surrounded by numerous shops, restaurants and cafes. But although the streets are so busy, the green space, which was opened in 1812, invites you to take a relaxed stroll. Here, locals and tourists gather to attend live concerts on the open-air Espa stage or to enjoy a picnic. Characteristic of the park are the straight avenues and flowerbeds. The design of the park was inspired, among others, by Svante Olsson, Helsinki's first city gardener.
The historic Espa Stage
During the warm summer months, the charming open-air stage provides a platform for young up-and-coming artists or well-known national and international musicians. Among the better-known festivals is "Jazz Espa", which is also known as the longest-running jazz festival in Finland. Etno Espa, on the other hand, delights with traditional Finnish music.
On the side of the stage there is a small pool with interesting water nymph sculptures as well as a child playing with a fish. The mermaid was modelled after the design of Tove Jansson, the world-famous creator of the Moomins. Adorned with moon lilies and other exotic lilies, a pretty oasis has been created here.
During the dark winter season, the stage is illuminated by the unique light art of Lux Helsinki. However, the stage is also popular on numerous other occasions, such as the Night of the Arts or Helsinki Day. During the performances, you can enjoy a snack or two on the terrace of the Kappeli restaurant opposite.
This beautiful Art Nouveau café was once a popular meeting place for national writers and politicians. And today it still delights its guests with a wonderful view of the promenade. At the western end of the park at Erottaja Square is the Swedish Theatre with its magnificent red and gold auditorium.
The Runeberg Statue
The imposing Johan Ludvig Runeberg statue was built in honour of Finland's national poet. A Finnish maiden stands on the base of the eight-metre-high monument, holding a plaque with the lyrics of the Finnish national anthem 'Maamme', written by Runeberg. Surrounded by a beautiful flowerbed that is replanted three times a year, benches invite you to linger.
Decorative wooden kiosks, created in 1928 by the city's architect Gunnar Taucher, offer ice cream and other treats. In winter, the Christmas market enjoys great popularity.
