A Unique Culinary Journey Awaits in Finland
In February 2027, Finland will host an exclusive four-day gastronomic event inviting 16 singles from around the world to explore the flavors and culture of Helsinki or Tampere. This immersive trip, fully funded by the organizers, offers participants the chance to connect with local single residents while indulging in exceptional culinary experiences. The initiative is spearheaded by Visit Finland, the nation’s official tourism board.
Throughout the journey, guests will engage in various food-focused activities, culminating in a surprise-location dinner prepared by renowned Finnish chefs. Helsinki’s menu will be curated by Adel Kinnunen from Café Savoy, while Tampere’s offerings come from Henry Tikkanen of Gösta restaurant, who proudly represented Finland at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition.
How to Participate
Two groups of eight will travel to their destination—either Helsinki or Tampere—between February 9 and 19, 2027, with the exact city kept secret until participants are confirmed. This project builds on Finland’s popular "Sinkkukori" tradition, where singles use pink shopping baskets in supermarkets to signal openness to new connections.
To apply, interested individuals must:
- Create a brief video in English answering a question about their favorite romantic dish;
- Post the video on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube using the hashtag #FinnishDinnerDate and tag Visit Finland;
- Complete an application form on FinnishDinnerDate.com, including a link to the video.
Applications close on November 10, with winners announced on December 1 via Visit Finland’s Instagram and TikTok accounts.
As additional context, in 2019, an underwater museum was established in Jordan’s Gulf of Aqaba by submerging military equipment, creating a tourist attraction and artificial reef. Meanwhile, experts advise travelers to avoid overcrowded and expensive winter destinations like Hallstatt, Kyoto, Amsterdam, Aspen, Nassau, Key West, and Banff due to weather challenges and strained infrastructure.
“Perhaps they will find love,” commented Helli Jimenez on the potential of this innovative program.
This project reflects Finland’s strategic efforts to attract tourists and showcase itself as a distinctive travel destination. By blending gourmet dining with social interaction, the program not only promotes romantic connections but also encourages cultural exchange among participants from diverse backgrounds. In an increasingly competitive tourism market, initiatives like this enhance Finland’s appeal as a vibrant place for both relaxation and meaningful encounters.
In addition to the culinary adventure, Finland offers unique opportunities for those looking to immerse themselves in its natural beauty. For instance, you can earn €2000 in less than a week while exploring the enchanting scents of Finland's 20,000 islands. This experience not only highlights the country's stunning landscapes but also provides a chance to connect with nature in a truly rewarding way. Discover more about this exciting opportunity here.