World Sauna Forum 2026 will begin in Jyväskylä with an inspiring Opening Keynote Day, now available as a separate ticket for a wider audience.
Finland has been named the world’s happiest country for nine consecutive years. And yet, Finns have not changed their way of life to achieve this — they have simply continued doing what they have always done. That, perhaps, is the point.
On the opening day of the 8th World Sauna Forum, The Sauna Knows: New Conversations on Happiness, an exceptional group of scientists, storytellers and cultural voices come together to explore what happiness truly means — beyond rankings, trends and optimisation. What does research tell us? What can ancient traditions teach us? And what happens when we sit with the question in the quiet heat of a sauna?
Taking place on Tuesday, June 9 at Jyväskylä Paviljonki, the day moves seamlessly between disciplines, perspectives and experiences. From the cardiovascular research of Jari Laukkanen to the cultural insights of Mikkel Aaland, from Justyna Turek’s global Saunthropology perspective to Jasper Pääkkönen’s lived Finnish experience, the programme brings together voices that connect science, culture and everyday life.
Throughout the day, participants will experience a dynamic programme of keynote talks, discussions, films and immersive moments. The full speaker lineup is available on the World Sauna Forum website.
Opening Keynote Day offers a unique opportunity to take part in a global conversation on wellbeing and the meaning of happiness — in the country where sauna is part of everyday life.
The ticket includes access to the full programme, SaunaChannel film screenings, interactive content experiences, and refreshments throughout the day.
Please note: If you have purchased the full 3-day World Sauna Forum ticket, this Opening Keynote Day is already included and no separate ticket is required.
This separate ticket is designed especially for those who are not attending the full event but wish to join the main seminar day.
Opening Keynote Day tickets are now available – Welcome to experience where happiness begins.
