Koli Horizons 2026 – Tourism Professional Day

Date: 5 February 2026
Location: Nature Centre Ukko, Koli National Park

The Koli Horizons Tourism Professional Day brings together regional tourism organisations, destination representatives, and tour operators from Finland and abroad to explore new products, partnerships, and travel experiences.

The day begins with inspiring keynote presentations from leading tourism and travel experts, offering insights into air connectivity, market trends, data-driven development, and digital customer experience. Regional representatives will then present their destinations in short sales pitches, showcasing the best of Eastern Finland — from Koli and Karelia to Vuokatti and Kuopio.

After lunch, participants can either use the time for self-arranged meetings and activities booked independently. Followed by an evening networking event — a relaxed dinner featuring local food, drinks, and good company.

Designed for tourism professionals seeking to strengthen their international connections, discover new business opportunities, and gain market insights, Tourism Professional Day is an essential gathering for the Finnish travel industry.

Participation in the event is free of charge (meals and accommodation not included). As places are limited, early registration is strongly recommended. Meals are self-paid and should be booked and paid for at the time of registration. Please note that meal payments are non-refundable in case of cancellation or inability to attend. Dress code is relaxed.

Program – Tourism Professional Day

08:30 – Morning Coffee
Start the day with coffee and informal networking at the Nature Centre Ukko, surrounded by Koli’s serene winter landscape.

09:00 – Welcome Session
Opening words and introduction to the day’s program in the Ukko Auditorium.

Keynote Speakers:

• Petri Vuori, Finavia
  Growing Air Connectivity – Lessons from Route Development
  Insights into how Finland is expanding its flight connections and developing air routes to support tourism growth.

• Wille Markkanen, Salmi Platform
  Tourism Data Insights – Understanding Trends and Demand

10:00 – Coffee Break

10:30 – Keynote Speakers Continue

• Kristiina Hietasaari, Visit Finland
  Finland’s Tourism Outlook and Future Opportunities

• Sam-Erik Ruttman, Director of Global Hospitality Development, Studio Puisto Architects
  Sari Puumala, Wulff Consulting
  The Power of Seamless: How to Build a Digital Customer Experience That Converts
  
  

11:30 – Regional Sales Pitches
Short DMO Presentations from Northern Lakeland

• Sanna Niiranen, tahko.com/Pohjois-Savo
• Leena Penttinen, Vuokatti
• Terhi Millar, Visit Karelia
• Maikki Miettinen, Business Joensuu
• Hanne Nevalainen, Nurmes (PIKES)
• Leena Tervakorpi, Mythical Finland DMC

12:30 – Lunch Break
Enjoy a relaxed lunch and connect with colleagues and partners.

13:30 – 15:00 | Time for Individual Meetings
Participants may arrange their own meetings.

15:00 – 17:30 | Pre-arranged Meetings
Scheduled one-to-one meetings or self-booked local activities.

19:00 – Evening Networking Dinner
End the day with a relaxed networking event featuring local food, drinks, and great company — bringing together tourism professionals from Koli, Lieksa, and Juuka.