Spirit of Carelia – Finland. An unforgettable week of nature, culture, friendship and international exchange on the lakes of Eastern Finland.
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LocationOronmylly, Parikkala
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Camp dates25 Jul – 2 Aug 2026
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Host family18 – 25 Jul 2026
🌲 Spirit of Carelia
The camp theme Spirit of Carelia combines Finnish nature, Karelian traditions, international friendship and Lions spirit.
The theme combines
- Finnish nature and lakes
- Karelian traditions and culture
- International friendship
- Outdoor activities and teamwork
- Lions spirit and community
During the camp you will experience
- Finnish sauna and lake culture
- Forest excursions and outdoor activities
- Traditional Karelian food
- International evenings and cultural exchange
- Sports, games, workshops and campfires
🧳 Preparing for the Trip
Please make sure that:
- Your passport or travel documents are valid
- You have travel insurance
- You bring any personal medications you may need
- You inform organizers about allergies, diets or medical conditions before arrival
🎒 Recommended Packing List
Please bring:
- Comfortable summer clothes
- Warm clothes for evenings
- Waterproof jacket and shoes
- Sportswear and outdoor clothing
- Swimming clothes
- Toiletries and personal items
- Indoor shoes / slippers
- Charger and travel adapters
- Small backpack for excursions
- Mosquito repellent (recommended)
☀️ Weather in Finland
The camp takes place during Finnish summer in Eastern Finland. Finland has very bright summer nights and long daylight hours.
Rain and wind are possible — pack a waterproof layer.
✈️ Arrival & Transportation
Camp organizers will assist participants during arrival and transportation.
Most participants arrive via
- Helsinki Airport
- Train connections to Parikkala
Local transportation is organized by
- Local Lions clubs
- Charter bus
- Train (Savonlinna excursion)
🏠 Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at Oronmylly, Parikkala. Participants stay together in shared rooms at the Riihiaitta guesthouse and the main building.
Facilities
- Shared rooms
- Showers & toilets
- Sauna
- Meeting & activity spaces
Please respect
- Quiet hours
- Shared spaces
- Camp rules
- Other participants
📅 Camp Program Highlights
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27 Jul
LC Parikkala
🥟 Karelian pie baking workshop · 🍲 Finnish food culture
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28 Jul
LC Parikkala–Siikalahti
🎣 Fishing competition · 🏃 Camp Olympics · 🌲 Outdoor activities
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29 Jul
LC Kesälahti
⚾ Finnish baseball experience in Kitee · 🏞 Sightseeing in Kesälahti
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30 Jul
LC Punkaharju
🚆 Train trip to Savonlinna · 🏰 Olavinlinna Castle · 🌲 Lusto Forest Museum · 🚢 Riihisaari
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1 Aug
International Camp Celebration
🌍 Country presentations · 🎉 Camp party with host families · 🤝 Lions fellowship
🌍 Share Your Culture
We encourage all participants to bring something from their home country. The international evening is one of the most important parts of the camp.
- Flags
- Music
- Snacks or sweets
- Traditional clothing
- Games or dances
- Photos and stories
⚠️ Safety & Camp Rules
Safety is very important at the camp.
- Camp safety plans are in place
- All participants must follow camp rules
- Finland is very safe, but participants must stay with their group
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Nature must be respected and kept clean
Serious rule violations may result in being sent home.
📱 Communication
Participants will receive
- Welcome information
- Arrival instructions
- Final camp information
Communication channels
- WhatsApp group
- Email updates
- Camp website
❤️ Welcome to Finland!
We are looking forward to meeting you and creating unforgettable memories together in Parikkala.
Welcome to Spirit of Carelia 2026!