Hamina Tattoo military music festival brings vibrant performances to historic Hamina

The Hamina Tattoo military music festival is currently enlivening the summer city of Hamina with its musical performances in local parks and the historic fortress area. This area features a collection of well-preserved wooden houses from the 18th century, whose yards have transformed into free concert venues for the event.

This year, thirteen historic private homes are participating by hosting concerts on their grounds. Kirsti Pakkala, resident of the Favre House, welcomes the public and bands for the fifth year in a row, stating, “We simply open our gates; the festival organizers handle everything else.”

Before the festivities began, the house owners devoted time to preparing their beautiful gardens. On Tuesday afternoon, the Lapland Military Band’s wind septet performed in the yard of the Favre House. The septet is a traditional Finnish ensemble of seven wind musicians with roots in the 19th century, having entertained audiences across Finland.

Concertgoers filled the garden, enjoying a cheerful atmosphere while music wafted from the nearby fortress, where military bands were also performing. Staff Sergeant Sari Pietikäinen explained that musicians from the Lapland Military Band would appear throughout the festival in various lineups, with a focus on marches but also performing evening-type music and entertainment.

The festival runs from Monday to Sunday, August 3, 2024, drawing visiting military bands from countries including the United States, Belgium, and Sweden. This vibrant event showcases a unique cultural atmosphere, enhancing the historical backdrop of Hamina.