Photo by Liina Laurikainen-Päri
Organized by the Estonian Rural Network, the study trip provided valuable insights into Finland's approach to promoting rural life and local food production.
Finland has been hosting Open Farm Day since 2016, typically held on the first weekend of September. The 2024 event marked a significant milestone, with 318 participating farms and over 100,000 visitors — an impressive increase from 30,000 in 2022.
For the first time, organizers extended the event to two days, rather than limiting it to the traditional single-day format.
Marianne Adson from Western-Harju Partnership shared her enthusiasm: "The opportunity to participate in a study trip to Finland from September 6–8, 2024, and experience the Lähiruokapäivä event, similar to Estonia's Open Farm Day, was inspiring and sparked new ideas for developing our LEADER region."
The Estonian delegation visited nine diverse Finnish farms and food producers, each offering unique experiences and insights. Participants were involved in various aspects of Finnish rural life, from the Highland cattle at Lakeuden Highland to the traditional farmhouse museum at Yli-Lauroselan Talomuseum.
One of the highlights was the visit to Helena Tiililä's vineyard at Pajupervi. Ragne Kärner-Neevits from Kaspri farm was particularly impressed: "I was fascinated by the strong cooperation between neighbors, especially with the rule of selling food within a 50 km radius, and by the diverse grape varieties at Helena Tiiililä's vineyard."
The study trip also revealed the innovative spirit of Finnish rural entrepreneurs. At Ainoa Winery, participants learned how two immigrants had successfully established a winery in Finland, using ingredients from northern forests to produce award-winning wines. This exemplified how Finnish entrepreneurs think outside the box, turning their forests into "vineyards."
The Finnish approach to hospitality and presentation stood out to the Estonian visitors.
One participant noted, "It can certainly be said that Finns are hospitable and carefree; however, they are also attentive to detail. Practicality isn't always necessary—as long as it looks good."
This attention to aesthetics was evident in various farms' carefully arranged and decorated areas.
Kärner-Neevits also highlighted the warm reception at Hakola Berry Farm, praising the "exceptionally warm reception and culinary experience" offered there. This organic farm, with its diverse offerings of berries, vegetables, honey, and more, exemplified the eclectic nature of Finnish small-scale agriculture.
The study trip underscored the importance of such events in promoting rural areas. As Adson pointed out:
Supporting farms that participate in Open Farm Days is crucial, as direct communication with visitors allows rural entrepreneurs to proudly share their success stories and promote the opportunities available in rural areas, both in Estonia and Finland.
While the Finnish Open Farm Day may not have attracted the same large crowds as in Estonia, it demonstrated a strong sense of community and cooperation among rural producers. The 50 km radius rule for food sales, mentioned by Kärner-Neevits, illustrates the importance of local production and consumption.
As the Estonian delegation returned home, they carried memories, fresh ideas, and inspirations for their Open Farm Day event. The Finnish experience showed that with creativity, community spirit, and attention to detail, rural areas can demonstrate their unique charm and productivity, attracting visitors and promoting local businesses.
Finland's Open Farm Day 2024 success highlights the increasing interest in rural tourism and local food production. As both Finland and Estonia continue to advance these initiatives, they foster a more comprehensive promotion of rural life and sustainable agriculture throughout the Nordic-Baltic region.
Article author:
Konstantin Mihhejev
Innovation Specialist
[email protected]
