Children’s Area
Something for the Whole Family at the Children’s Area
The Helsinki Book Fair’s Children’s Area invites children and families to enjoy books, stories and fun activities together. A varied programme awaits, designed to inspire reading, listening, participation and hands-on exploration.
The Children’s Area’s two programme stages will host lively performances, music, quizzes and storytelling, while workshops and craft stations offer the chance to make and try things together. The programme brings joy and discovery for children of all ages, along with enjoyable activities for the whole family.
Character Parade!
Beloved characters take to the fair! Follow the procession as it sets off from the steps of Hall 6 and culminates at the Children’s Area.
Children’s Area Stages
Toukola Stage is intended for various activities, workshops and crafts.
Kumpula Stage features book presentations, music and quizzes.
Busholmen for Children’s Programming in Swedish
The Busholmen programme point offers children’s programming in Swedish. The programme point is located in the Swedish-language literature area, Bokbyn.
Advance Tickets Are Cheaper – Free Entry for Under 7 yo
Children under 7 are admitted to the Helsinki Book Fair free of charge. Family tickets are also available, admitting two adults and up to three children aged 7–17. Visitors can attend for a single day, or purchase a full pass valid for all four days. Full passes are available for both adults and children. Tickets are always cheaper when bought in advance from the online shop.
School Ticket, Thursday–Friday
Primary and secondary school pupils, upper secondary and vocational students, and teachers accompanying their class are admitted to the fair on Thursday and Friday at a price of €10 per person. School tickets can be purchased at the Messukeskus ticket desk on Thursday and Friday.
Services for Families with Children
Helsinki Messukeskus has a childcare room along the Upper Gallery corridor. The childcare room includes a toilet suitable for young children, a nappy-changing area and a microwave. Nappy-changing tables can also be found in almost every toilet facility at Messukeskus. Pushchairs can be borrowed for the duration of your visit, though availability is limited. Available pushchairs can be found at the entrances. As always, a pushchair park is located next to the Children’s Area.