My most anticipated event of the year had finally arrived: the Helsinki Book Fair 2025, held from 23–26 October at Messukeskus. Just like last year, I came on the third day, Saturday, which somehow has become my ‘tradition’. I purchased my 40-euro one-day ticket a few days prior and arrived with a rush of excitement I always feel before stepping into the hall.

Exploring the Booths

The moment I walked in, I felt the familiar wave of overwhelm in the good kind. Rows of publishers, books from every era, and readers moving slowly like they were in a sacred space. I wandered instinctively from booth to booth, touching spines, flipping through pages of books that was on my to be read (TBR) list. At one corner, I found a collection of magazines and books. One of them was Finnish Donald Duck collection from the 1950s, showing that this fair isn’t just about new releases but living literary archives. Some stalls offered discounts, others kept standard prices, but what mattered most was the abundance. If you’re hunting for something specific, there is a high probability that this is the place you are looking for.

This event was always thoughtfully includes children. There were reading corners, activity spaces, and even the local library’s introduced one of their program: lukukoira program, a reading support initiative where children can practice reading aloud to a calm, trained dog. It was heartwarming to see learning presented with such gentleness since early age.

Art and Stationery Finds

Beyond books, the creative booths were a delightful surprise once again. Illustration, stationery, prints, places like Putinki and Kehvola drew me in immediately. I don’t know if it’s just my impression, but this year felt even richer in visual art and creators. I ended up buying two illustrated prints from Kehvola without hesitation.

Food and Wine Fair Break

After walking for hours, I was grateful to remember that the ticket also includes access to the Food & Wine Fair right next to the venue. Just a few steps away, the atmosphere shifted into warmth and flavor: Spanish, Italian, Greek, Korean, Thai, and more. It was a great moment to pause, enjoy rich flavors, recharge, and return with renewed energy.

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Compared to last year, the layout felt slightly more spacious, less crowded between shelves. If anything, this made the experience better: enough room to explore without pressure. Next year, I think I’ll try to come on the first day instead, just to experience the fair before the weekend rush. But even on a Saturday, it still felt like coming home to something I never truly outgrow.