Social Events

Welcome reception
Thursday

At the end of the first conference day (Thursday, 11 June), we will host a welcome reception at Helsinki City Hall.

Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 11–13, 00170 Helsinki

Cocktail hour
Friday

At the end of the second day (Friday, 12 June), we will host a cocktail hour on the Aalto University campus.

Address: Otakaari 1 M (U wing), 02150 Espoo

Photo Aalto University / Mikko Raskinen

Conference dinner and cruise – Saturday

The conference dinner (Saturday, 13 June) will be held at Restaurant Lonna, located on the picturesque island of Lonna, just off the coast of Helsinki. Guests will enjoy a scenic cruise from the conference venue in Otaniemi, Espoo to the island (details below), followed by a welcome drink and a dinner featuring Nordic cuisine in a beautifully restored historical setting. The evening will continue with live music and dancing. At the end of the evening, private ferries will return guests to Kauppatori (Market Square) in central Helsinki.

Photo lonna.fi

Restaurant Lonna

Lonna Island, part of Helsinki’s archipelago, offers a peaceful and atmospheric escape only minutes from the city center. The island has a rich maritime history and is known for its commitment to sustainability and local ingredients.

Our private event will take place in the Miinamakasiinit (Mine Storehouses), a unique venue enclosed by a striking stone wall. It includes two historic buildings: one will host the seated dinner, while the other will be dedicated to live music and dancing. Between them lies a spacious 400 m² terrace, partially covered and offering stunning sea views in two directions—ideal for mingling and enjoying the summer light.

Photo lonna.fi

Cruise and Ferry Rides to Lonna

Lonna is located just a 10-minute ferry ride from Kauppatori, the central market square of Helsinki. Public ferries operate between Kauppatori and Lonna every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the time of day. These offer an independent travel option for those who prefer it. More information is available here.

For conference participants, we are pleased to offer a private cruise from Keilaniemi harbour to Lonna Island. Keilaniemi is within walking distance from the Aalto campus (approximately 1.5 km). Tram and metro options are also available.

The cruise will last approximately 1hour, offering a relaxed and scenic journey through the Helsinki archipelago. Drinks will be served onboard, providing the perfect setting to unwind, network, and take in the sea views.

To return from Lonna to the city, two privately chartered ferries will depart to Kauppatori: the first, one hour before the venue closes and the second, at closing time. This allows guests to choose the return time that best suits their schedule.

Photo by Julia Kivelä on frs-finland.fi