The Imatrankoski rapids are roaring and there are advertisements and spectators for the Saimaa Cycle Tour event on the bridge. — Archive photo from the Saimaa Cycle Tour 2022, Niko Laurila.

Imatra City Council decided on major event partnerships for 2026

Major event partnerships were signed with seven events this year.

The city government's latest policy in its meeting on 12.1.2026 about major event partnerships in 2026. A total of ten applications were received, and agreements will be signed with seven events.

Major event partnership agreements are concluded with events that bring a significant number of visitors from outside the province or that have significant national or international media visibility.

– Imatra's major events build the city's vitality on several levels. They attract tourists, increase awareness and create opportunities for new experiences for locals as well. Investing in events is always an investment in both the city's appeal and staying power. It's more fun to come and be here when there's something happening here! Tourism and Events Manager Panu Kärri highlight.

Major event partnerships are concluded with the following events:

Swedish Rally (€20,000)
Black and White Theatre Festival (€40,000 + €6,000 rent exemption)
Saimaa Challenge (€3,000 + €2,250 rent exemption)
Saimaa Film Festival (€3,000)
Saunan Vuoksi Festival (€10,000 + €1,000 rent exemption)
European Youth Biathlon Championships (€45,000 + €10,000 rent exemption)
FIS Spa Skiing, Baltic Biathlon Cup (€10,000 + rental exemption €4,500)
Corner Wanderers (€5,000)

The total value of the major event partnership agreements is €136,000 and the maximum amount of rental exemptions granted in connection with the agreements is €23,750.

In addition to the partnerships now decided, the city has valid agreements with Imatranajon (€280,000), Saimaa Cycle Tour (€40,000), Vuoksi Swim (€5,000), Saimaa Events (€15,000) and Mbartsi (€11,500). In addition to direct financial support, the partnerships also include rent exemptions for city facilities or other elements of monetary value.