Stories and Songs of the Old Spirits

Long ago, the world appeared mysterious and full of unseen forces to the Finnish people. Nature was alive with väki—the powerful spirits residing in forests, lakes, and skies. Every tree, rock, and body of water had its own väki, and living in harmony required respect and understanding. The Finns knew that a whispered greeting to the forest or an offering left at a sacred spring could mean the difference between safe passage and misfortune.

At the beginning, Kreetta – your local guide to the Finnish past will lead you on a short drum voyage accompanied with her intuitive singing. The ancient vibrations of the drum and intuitive singing guids the mind to shut out the outside world and tune into be present. After the drum joyrney, refreshments and light snacks will be provided and you can enjoy them during the Kreetta’s performance. Storytelling is woven together with songs, where respect for the old meets a modern twist. In the past, the world was seen as mysterious and magical by the Finnish people. Many things were beyond their understanding, so phenomena were explained through myths and stories. Many different forces were believed in, and the forests were filled with creatures and spirits. These were referred to by the collective term väki. Every pond and tree was thought to have its own spirit, and respectful behavior from humans toward the folks of nature was required for peaceful coexistence. Harmony was maintained through various ways, and coexistence with the supernatural was part of everyday life.

Learn how the old ones sought protection from the nature spirits. Discover why one should knock on a tree trunk—not merely out of habit, but to announce their presence to the väki within. Hear how travelers once whispered words to the Metsän väki, asking the forest spirits for shelter, guidance, and safe passage under the watchful eyes of the trees. Storytelling in English, and songs are performed in Finnish.