Folk it Up! 💃 Launch event

🎻 Welcome to the first event of the Folk it Up! International Folk Dances for All project! 🎻

Folk it Up! is a European Solidarity Corps (ESC) Solidarity Project — co-funded by the European Union, free of charge, open to everyone and volunteer-led. 

This project offers a series of fun and inclusive Balfolk-inspired events, where both dance lovers and total beginners can move, play, and express themselves freely.

Running from September 2025 to March 2026, the project kicks off with a special launch event! Join us to discover how Folk it Up! came to life.

And if you can’t make it to the launch — no worries! You’re welcome at any point during the project to participate, teach a dance, share your music, co-create a session, or simply stop by for a chat and a cup of coffee. ☕

👉 Read more about the project and on this page.

🎉 9/9 Launch Event Program 🎉

🕕 18:00–2:30 — Here's what’s in store throughout the evening:

  • Icebreaker Session – Let’s get to know each other, warm up, and feel grounded in our bodies.

  • Safer Space Principles & Group Agreements – Co-create a respectful and welcoming environment for all.

  • A Glimpse into European Folk Dance Traditions – A short intro to the richness of the folk dance heritage.

  • Project Presentation – Learn more about Folk it Up! and how you can get involved.

  • Beginner-Friendly Folk Dance Workshops – Easy-to-follow dances, with low-impact and adaptive options to make sure everyone can join the fun.

  • Debrief & Reflection – Share thoughts, feelings, feedback, or other dance-related happenings!

    🏛 About the Venue

    The event will take place at A-lava, an outdoor covered stage located in the yard of Annantalo Arts Centre, right in the heart of Helsinki, next to Kamppi Shopping Centre (where you’ll also find free toilets).

    Getting there: Annantalo is easily accessible by metro, trams, and several bus lines that stop right nearby.

    The space:

    • Stage size: approx. 81 m² (9 m x 9 m)

    • Benches and movable seating available

    • Wheelchair-accessible ♿

    We’re covered in case of rain ☔ — but since the stage is outdoors, please dress warmly and comfortably.

Registration form

💰The event is free of charge, but registration is mandatory❗

In order to sign in for participating in this event, please fill in this form that helps us keep track of how many people there will be at the event and if we need to prepare anything specific for your needs.

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If you have any question or you would like to volunteer for the event or the project, email us at:📧 volunteer@alli.fi