MILjazz 2026: Kajaani

Free entry!

MILjazz 2026: The Finnish Defence Forces’ MILjazz Tour Arrives to Delight the Kainuu Audience!

Rantapuisto and Brahenkatu will transform into a vibrant event area, combining a heavy-duty military equipment display with a relaxed summer concert.

The afternoon begins at 2:00 PM on Brahenkatu, where the public has a rare opportunity to explore the Finnish Defence Forces’ impressive artillery equipment. The display is open until 7:00 PM. The Soldiers’ Home (Sotilaskoti) will handle the refreshments, serving the public from two mobile units in Rantapuisto throughout the event – welcome to enjoy those classic donuts!

Concert Schedule

• 18.00–21.30: MILjazz Concert

The evening’s concert opens spectacularly with the Dragoon Band, and this time they are shifting into high gear! Under the command of Chief Conductor Major (Mus.) Tero Haikala, the band will roll out a set of TOTO’s timeless hits. The soloists for the evening are Viljami Holopainen and Ilari Kaipainen, both alumni of the Finnish Defence Forces Conscript Band. The pulse and energy will remain high from the first note to the last.

Next to the stage is the Air Force Big Band, conducted by Ville Paakkunainen. The summer tour repertoire dives into the hot rhythms of the Caribbean, focusing on the music of legendary jazz pianist Michel Camilo. Expect energetic Latin American beats, spiced up by soloist Joonatan Rautio, one of Finland’s most respected jazz saxophonists.

The electric climax of the evening will be delivered by the high-energy Finnish Defence Forces Conscript Band’s Showband, bringing well-known hits and irresistible performance enthusiasm to Rantapuisto.

Arrival and Location

• Concert: Rantapuisto, Kajaani
• Equipment Display: Brahenkatu (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
• Arrival: The event area is located right near the city center, and Rantapuisto is most easily reached on foot. For those driving, parking is available in city center parking lots and on-street spaces.

Admission is free. Come join us to enjoy great music and get a glimpse into the daily life of national defence!