Garnfest Porvoo
Welcome to Porvoo’s Empire district for a day full of yarn excitement! The hall of the old Deaf School will open its doors to the knitting community, where you can explore a delightful array of products from Finnish yarn dyers, spinners, brands, and knitting accessory makers.
You are welcome to sit in the gym hall lobby, Säie Wool’s lounge, or even on a picnic blanket and knit with us. If the courtyard runs out of space, the beautiful Lyseo, also known as Rose Park, next door has plenty of room. Bring your picnic blanket, snacks, and a joyful spirit!
Learn about Garnfest Porvoo vendors:
Also:
Vanhan Porvoon Jäätelötehdas - ice cream bike
The event location is just two blocks from the Porvoo market square, which you can easily reach by bus from Helsinki or even Kotka!
EVENT HOURS AND ACCESSIBILITY
The event area will open to the public at 11 AM and will be open until 5 PM. There is no entrance fee, and you can come and go as you please.
Unfortunately, the event is not fully accessible, as the main vendors will be in the gym hall of a building from the 1800s, which requires going up a few steps. However, Säie Wool’s facilities are located at street level. Please note that there is a small ramp just inside Säie Wool’s entrance.
ARRIVAL
We recommend arriving by public transportation. The event location is just two blocks from the Porvoo market square, where buses arrive.
If you prefer to come by car, please note that parking spaces around the old Deaf School are free street parking, which will likely fill up quickly. Follow the traffic signs and remember to use a parking disc if needed. Porvoo has very efficient parking enforcement, and we don’t want any unpleasant surprises for our visitors!
Here is a link to Porvoo’s parking map to help you find a spot: parking map
WHAT ELSE TO DO IN PORVOO?
Porvoo is a charming summer city, and it’s worth taking the time to explore the local treasures! Here are some recommendations from Säie Wool’s Eija:
FOOD AND DRINK
Kiva Café - Streetfood - Bar is just over a block away from the old Deaf School, located by the beautiful Porvoo riverbank. Enjoy delicious street food, a refreshing drink, and rest your tired feet on Kiva Café’s terrace.
Itäinen Rantapromenadi 3
www.kivaterassi.fi
Café Cabriole is an unparalleled cake café in Porvoo’s city center, right across from the market square. Known for its sweet and savory treats, Café Cabriole is especially famous for its cakes. Did you know that Antti Hautalehto, a character from Cristian Rönnbacka's novels, often visits Café Cabriole to pick up a cake for his workplace at the Porvoo police station?
Piispankatu 30
www.cabriole.fi
Tuorilan kotileipomo - Kirkkotori is located in the heart of old Porvoo, right opposite Porvoo Cathedral. From this small corner shop in a red wooden house, you’ll find the city's most delicious cinnamon buns and the delightful Tuorilan kotileipomo coffee crafted by Porvoo Paahtimo. Grab a potato loaf to take home and sit on the terrace to enjoy the cathedral’s atmosphere.
Kirkkotori 2
www.tuorilankotileipomo.fi
SHOPPING
Finform on Jokikatu is a gem for those who love beautiful homes, good food, and Scandinavian design. I have long admired the impeccable taste and eye of Finform’s owner, Jutta, as her beautiful shop is full of delightful treasures.
Jokikatu 35
www.finform.fi
Skafferi is the most charming little shop on the busiest street of old Porvoo. The Swedish word ‘skafferi’ means pantry, and the shop is full of lovely small treats; spices, candies, snacks, and refreshing drinks to take home or give as a gift.
Jokikatu 41
www.skafferi.fi
Riimikko is the epitome of toy stores! Located on Välikatu in old Porvoo, this magical little toy shop is full of enchantment. The most beautiful children’s costumes, the most huggable plush toys, and the best games can be found in this store.
Välikatu 8
www.riimikko.fi
SECOND HAND & VINTAGE
Bohemia is a second-hand, interior, and lifestyle shop on the edge of old Porvoo. Bohemia offers something "new" every day, with bohemian-style interior items, art, and jewelry.
Mannerheiminkatu 1
www.bohemia.fi
Doris and Duke is a vintage enthusiast’s dream - a small general store. It is filled with recycled vintage clothes, shoes, bags, and jewelry. Additionally, you’ll find gift items and nostalgia products.
Jokikatu 18
www.dorisdukeshop.fi
Tavara Kammari in Porvoo’s Tarmola district is worth the two-kilometer trip if you’re looking for unique finds. Tavara Kammari is a traditional buy-and-sell store, full of beautiful furniture and curiosities. Bring a car, as you might find something bigger to take home!
Teollisuustie 12B
www.tavarakammari.fi
MORE PORVOO TIPS
If you need more Porvoo tips, visit the Visit Porvoo website. There you’ll find great lists and links to everything you could want in Porvoo!