MILjazz 2026: Seinäjoki

Free entry!

MILjazz 2026: The Finnish Defence Forces’ Energetic Tour Takes Over Seinäjoki Central Square!

This open and free outdoor event offers a perfect combination of top-tier music, interesting military equipment, and a genuine festival atmosphere right in the heart of the city.

The event kicks off at Vekselinaukio square as early as 2:00 PM, where the public can explore the modern equipment of the Finnish Defence Forces. Also present are the Seinäjoki National Defence Women’s Association (Maanpuolustusnaiset ry) and the National Defence Training Association (MPK) to present their activities. The Seinäjoki Soldiers’ Home canteen will serve visitors starting from 2:00 PM – be sure to arrive early, as those popular donuts are only available for the quickest!

Concert Schedule

• 18.00–18.50: The Navy Band’s Entertainment Orchestra with soloist Konsta Hietanen
• 19.10–19.55: The Air Force Big Band with soloist Joonatan Rautio
• 20.15–21.30: The Finnish Defence Forces Conscript Band’s Showband

Music Program

The musical portion of the evening will be opened with style by the The Navy Band’s Entertainment Orchestra.

Following them, the stage will be taken by 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 evening will reach its rightful climax with the Finnish Defence Forces Conscript Band’s Showband, bringing electric energy and well-known hits to the Central Square.

At the Blood Service information stand, you can learn more about blood donation and participate in a raffle to win an emergency radio.

Arrival and Location

• Venue: Seinäjoki Central Square (Keskustori, Kalevankatu 7)
• Public Transport: The railway station and the long-distance bus station are located less than 300 meters from the venue.
• By Car: Seinäjoki is easily accessible via highways 18 and 19 and main road 67. There are plenty of paid parking spaces in the city center (e.g., Valtionkatu and Koulukatu). Please note that parking fees (€2/h) are in effect on Saturdays until 3:00 PM.

Welcome to enjoy a summer of military music in Seinäjoki!