Ghosts and pumpkins are once again arriving in Mathildedal during the autumn holiday week, from 9 to 18 October, bringing an exciting atmosphere to the village throughout the week.
Visitors can explore the Ghost Museum, follow a thrilling Ghost Trail, take part in a Zombie Walk, or even enjoy a round of Ghost Golf.
The village's restaurants and cafés will be serving delicious pumpkin-themed treats, and local boutiques will be open throughout the week, with extended opening hours on Saturdays. Come and experience the magical atmosphere of autumn in Mathildedal!
Ghosts & Pumpkins is part of the Salo Pumpkin Weeks programme and offers memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
The programme will be updated during September.
The event, organised for the first time last year, was extremely popular. Be sure to book your accommodation early to secure your stay, perhaps even for the whole week!
Explore accommodation options, cafés and restaurants, activities, and the village boutiques on the Visit Mathildedal website.
Mathildedal is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer stay in September. Autumn is one of the village’s most beautiful seasons, as the vibrant fall colours take over Teijo National Park and mist drifts along the seashore. Most restaurants and cafés are open throughout the week, and all are open on weekends. The village shops are open as well. A visit can easily be combined with hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the village’s historic surroundings.
September also brings two exciting events to the village. The traditional Matilda Rock Festival, now taking place for the 13th time, will be held on September 4–5 at Restaurant Terho and the seaside summer theatre stage. In case of rain, the festival will move to the Valimo event venue. As always, visitors can look forward to an abundance of Finnish rock music. Admission to Matilda Rock is free.
On September 19–20, a new poetry event will bring more than 40 poets and performers to the village. The inspiration for Poets’ Spring – Autumn Edition comes from Le Printemps des Poètes, the poetry festival held annually in France. The event celebrates poetry in its many forms. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy poetry performances, panel discussions, workshops for writers, music, dance, improvisation, and an open mic session.
Welcome to enjoy the beauty of autumn in Mathildedal!
Night of the Ancient Fires is known in Finland as Muinaistulien yö. It is a traditional celebration held on the last Saturday of August, when bonfires, torches, and other lights are lit along coastlines, in the archipelago, and by lakes and waterways. The tradition originates from the old custom of lighting fires along the coast to help seafarers navigate safely in the dark. Today, the Night of Ancient Fires is primarily a celebration marking the end of the summer season
Night of the Ancient Fires -weekend in Mathildedal brings experiences, music, movement, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere of togetherness to Mathildedal.
Create your own perfect mini holiday! All of the village’s restaurants, unique shops, and accommodation providers will be open throughout the weekend.
You can start your weekend as early as Friday with an exciting excursion into the world of local flavours. The tour introduces participants to regional delicacies and stunning rural landscapes while riding electric mountain bikes.
On Saturday, the Yoga & Sauna Evening by Lake Matilda offers the chance to experience the relaxing health benefits of yoga, meditation, gong sound vibrations, a traditional Finnish sauna, pure lake water, and swimming. On Saturday evening, dance enthusiasts can head to the rooftop bar for a lively night out. The evening at Harri's Rooftop Lounge begins with an introductory bachata dance class, followed by dancing to a DJ's beats late into the night.
At Mathilda Marina, DJs will keep the party going in the glow of the traditional Venetian bonfires. The evening programme also features partner acrobatics, salsa, and samba carnival performances.
At Restaurant Terho, Sarparanta will take the stage, while Bistro Bruket welcomes the Ivan Radeka Duo to create the evening’s atmosphere.
Sunday morning begins refreshingly by the sea with dockside yoga at Mathilda Marina (weather permitting).
Other village activities, including Adventure Minigolf, tennis and padel courts, the Bike Park, and the golf course, will also be open throughout the weekend.
Explore the full programme in the event calendar. Welcome to Mathildedal to celebrate the end of the summer season!
