Tournament week

The Helsinki Cup tournament week offers a full lineup of junior football, joy, unforgettable experiences, and new friendships – all across the Helsinki metropolitan area.The week culminates in the thrilling A-finals on Saturday at the Olympic Stadium, but the excitement builds day by day starting from Monday.

Monday, July 7 – The long-awaited celebration tournament begins

The first tournament day brings hundreds of matches to fields across Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa. There’s joy, excitement, and a strong sense of community – for many teams, this is the most anticipated moment of the year.

The Love The Ball Center event square opens its gates in Käpylä, and starting from Monday, the stage will host various activities, competitions, raffles, and programs that boost the tournament spirit. It’s also a perfect place to relax, enjoy tasty treats, and visit our partner booths.

Tuesday, July 8 – Helsinki Cup’s official opening ceremony takes over the city center

On Tuesday, the celebration gets grand, as Helsinki Cup’s opening ceremony brings together teams, spectators, and the city itself. The streets are filled with happy tournament participants, waving flags, and vibrant music.

The day ends at the Olympic Stadium square, with speeches, traditional team oaths shown on video, and performances that raise the tournament spirit sky-high. This is the moment when the international football family comes together – and the whole city lives and breathes Helsinki Cup.

Wednesday, July 9 – Doritos Festival explodes with energy in Käpylä

On Wednesday, the Helsinki Cup experience reaches the next level as the Doritos Festival takes over Love The Ball Center in Käpylä!

A full day of rhythm, energy, and movement unites players, families, and fans.
Liike on Lääke, JVG, and Joe L will get the whole tournament crowd moving at the Doritos Festival!

Thursday, July 10 – Matches continue, but there’s time to explore Helsinki

The tournament continues in full swing with hundreds of matches across the city, as teams from around the world battle it out in the playoffs.

Many teams also take time to explore Helsinki’s sights: Linnanmäki amusement park, Suomenlinna sea fortress, Helsinki Swimming Stadium, Hietaniemi beach, and the Oodi central library are popular destinations during match breaks. Helsinki offers experiences that turn into lasting memories.

Friday, July 11 – Playoff excitement peaks

The atmosphere intensifies as the final playoff matches are played. The stakes are high and the crowd’s cheers grow louder – this is the moment when those encouragement cards truly find their deserving recipients!

The A-finals for girls’ general and recreational series, and B9 Elite, take place at the Olympic Stadium on Friday.

It’s the busiest day at the event square, too. The stage features music, surprise guests, and fun Helsinki Cup-themed competitions like football quizzes and small skill challenges. Friendships are formed, and group photos are taken everywhere.

Saturday, July 12 – Finals Day at the Olympic Stadium

The tournament concludes with the final A-matches at the Olympic Stadium – the home of Finland’s national teams. Parents, friends, coaches, and communities gather on the sidelines to cheer on the players for their final courageous effort.

Finals Day is not just about football – it’s a celebration of emotion, joy, and the triumph of participation. Every player who has taken part in the Helsinki Cup is part of this international football celebration, no matter their final placement.