Spirit of Carelia – Finland. An unforgettable week of nature, culture, friendship and international exchange on the lakes of Eastern Finland.

  • LocationOronmylly, Parikkala
  • Camp dates25 Jul – 2 Aug 2026
  • 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.

18–25°CDaytime temperature
CoolerEvenings & mornings
BrightLong summer nights

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)
If you experience problems during travel, contact:
Camp Coordinator: Ilkka ilkkalions@gmail.com

🏠 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

  1. 27 Jul

    LC Parikkala

    🥟 Karelian pie baking workshop · 🍲 Finnish food culture

  2. 28 Jul

    LC Parikkala–Siikalahti

    🎣 Fishing competition · 🏃 Camp Olympics · 🌲 Outdoor activities

  3. 29 Jul

    LC Kesälahti

    ⚾ Finnish baseball experience in Kitee · 🏞 Sightseeing in Kesälahti

  4. 30 Jul

    LC Punkaharju

    🚆 Train trip to Savonlinna · 🏰 Olavinlinna Castle · 🌲 Lusto Forest Museum · 🚢 Riihisaari

  5. 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!