Indigenous peoples music festival kicks off in Inari, Finland

The Indigenous Peoples Music Festival, Ijahis idja, kicks off on Friday in Inari, Finland. The first night is expected to bring rain, but temperatures will remain above 15 degrees Celsius. Festival assistant producer Aleksi Ahlakorpi believes attendees will enjoy the experience despite the weather.

“There are concerts not only outdoors. During the rain, you can enjoy performances indoors, for example, at Sajok or Siida,” Ahlakorpi advised. Organizers are prepared for inclement weather, offering raincoats for purchase at the ticket booth for those without proper rain gear. “A little rain doesn’t matter when you can see Kevin Boine or Mari Boine perform. You won’t even be able to tell if it’s sweat or raindrops on your forehead,” Ahlakorpi joked.

Performers at the festival include Ravggon, Ánnámáret, Tundra Electro, and Niillas Holmberg. The event has also established a tradition of hosting artists from other Indigenous communities, with music from Ed Littlefield of Alaska featured this weekend.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the festival has evolved from a small village event into a renowned international gathering, attracting participants from southern Finland and across the Nordic countries. To mark this milestone, the festival features some changes. Concerts will occur in the Sámi Cultural Center Sajok’s auditorium as well, and the entrance has been relocated closer to the main road for easier accessibility.

Festival wristbands grant free access to the exhibitions at the Sámi Museum and Nature Center Siida throughout the weekend. “Although the music will stop after midnight on Saturday, you can continue exploring Siida on Sunday,” Ahlakorpi added.

The first day of the festival features events for children and youth, including workshops and performances showcasing rap music and joik. Saturday allows new talents to present their skills on the Talent Stage, which has been part of the festival for a couple of years, providing exposure for emerging artists.

For those unable to attend in person, the Ijahis idja festival will also be available via livestream.