Finnish student life offers vibrant and varied experiences, whether you are a fan of high-energy parties or prefer quieter, non-alcoholic events. Here is your ultimate guide to enjoying student life in Tampere (with alcohol or without alcohol) with options tailored to different interests.
Sitsit: A Student Experiment in Sober Fun
Celebration is a central theme deeply rooted in student culture. While student traditions evolve and have become more inclusive compared to the wildest days, discussions about students’ relationship with alcohol and drinking still emerge in the media. These concerns, along with the various perspectives shared, are valid and likely resonate especially with new and prospective students.
Questions like “Can I attend this event sober?” are unfortunately common when it comes to planning on going to events. A contrasting perspective often assumes you can’t attend some events like sitsit without drinking. I wanted to challenge this notion by going alcohol-free.
Chant-singing is fun
Sitsit are table parties that humorously parody academic etiquette, centered around a songbook with various adaptations. Often, these events include a dress code based on a theme to promote bonding among participants. I attended a horror movie-themed sitsit and was impressed by the creativity and effort others put into their costumes. So rather than the type of liquid one has in their glass, the dress code and singing are already themes that create communality at sitsit.
Drinking songs are fun and culturally effective for fostering a sense of community. I found that enthusiasm and participation mattered the most when it comes to having fun. Despite staying sober, I laughed until my stomach hurt, joined my team in a playful skit to entertain the crowd, and sang sitsit songs with gusto—even if not always in tune!
Does sobriety spark discussion?
I did not receive any special attention for my drink choices. In fact, there were others in my group who also stayed sober. Of course, my experience is just one of many and sometimes sober partygoers have unfortunately been pressured to drink. To be fair, I often ask others about their drink choices too, but more to learn if something tastes good and is worth trying myself. Discussions may arise but usually in a friendly bonding-like spirit. In uncomfortable situations one can always turn to a harassment contact person.
The organizers did an excellent job providing alcohol-free drink options, which I truly appreciated. It is lovely to see how the organizers have put an equal amount of effort into the drinks offered in sitsit. In my opinion, the more effort it is put into the sober options, the more likely it is to be chosen.
The attitude you have at sitsit plays the biggest role
Like all student events, you can attend sitsit in your own way. Staying sober does not make the experience any less fun if the attitude is right and you can laugh both at yourself and with others. The most important thing at sitsit is enjoying the sense of community, which I believe is not dependent on the content of your glass.
Fortunately, awareness of safe space principles and equality goals is emphasized at events. I warmly recommend this experiment to fellow students. Sobriety should not limit anyone’s participation in events: sitsit, as a playful and fun student event, is for everyone!
For the Clubbing Enthusiast: SYMPOSIUM Parties
For everyone like me who loves dancing, karaoke, and creative themes, Symposium is the student party you do not want to miss. Organized monthly by student organizations ESN FINT and INTO, this lively party brings Finnish and international students together for unforgettable nights filled with fun and connection.
More Than Just Dancing
Sure, you can hit the dance floor, but that is not all Symposium has to offer. Love karaoke? Belt out your favorite songs in front of an enthusiastic crowd. Feeling competitive? Head to the beer pong table and show off your skills. The vibe is inclusive, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Do you love to dress up? Worry not, the highlight of every symposium is its unique theme every month from festive vibes to spooky thrills. The themes bring out the creativity of attendees with costumes, decorations, and games, but there is no pressure to dress up. Don your student overalls and you are good to go!
Affordable Drinks, Amazing Non-Alcoholic Options
What is a student party without affordable drinks? Symposium delivers with wallet-friendly prices, making it easy to enjoy the night without breaking the bank. Not into alcohol? No problem, we are in the same boat! The event offers a range of delightful non-alcoholic options, ensuring everyone feels included and catered to. It is all about enjoying the night your way.
Free Souvenirs and Perks
Do not miss out on the free overall badges handed out before midnight—a unique and collectible memento of your night. Add to that the free cloakroom available before 22:00, and you have got a night that is not only fun but hassle-free.
If you are looking to let loose, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories, Symposium is your go-to student event.
Non-Alcoholic Gems: Wellbeing Events and Beyond
Sometimes students may wonder if it is acceptable to attend a student party, such as sitsit or Symposium, without drinking alcohol. As we have seen, it is totally fine and fun. While studying at Tampere University, students are also offered a wide range of non-alcoholic events, such as well-being and sports activities.
Usually, every student association has a board member responsible for cultural, well-being, and sports events. They tailor a variety of sports, cultural, and well-being activities for the association, including events like sports try-outs, museum visits, or even meetings for a knitting club. Not every single student association event requires attending a bar or a nightclub.
Sporty at Heart?
While you might want to explore events outside of your own student association, there are also a wide range of common events for all students that do not involve alcohol. Why not try out the sporty appro called SporttiAppro, or attend various well-being activities during the The Wellbeing Week, organized annually by student unions TREY and Tamko.
Moreover, Tampere University offers a wide range of sports clubs, such as Turvoke, Akateeminen Mahti, and Tolu ry. In addition, some student associations also have their own clubs for various sports. These sports clubs are an excellent way to connect with like-minded people while engaging in well-being activities, ranging from horse riding to aesthetic group gymnastics. You are always welcome to step in without a long-term commitment to try out any activity of your choice.
Relaxing the Finnish Way: Sauna Culture in Tampere
Sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, and Tampere, the sauna capital of the world, offers some of the best spots to experience it. Whether you are a fan of public saunas or prefer the privacy of your building’s sauna, you will find it is an unparalleled way to relax and refresh.
Whether you visit the lakeside Kaupinojan sauna for an invigorating heat session followed by a dip in the icy water or unwind at the peaceful Rauhaniemen kansankylpylä or secluded quieter experience at Suomensaari, you are in for a relaxing experience.
For those less inclined towards public saunas, many student accommodations in Tampere have private saunas, providing the same soothing experience with added convenience. This quite essential Finnish experience is a must!
Kamula: A Hub for Creativity and Community
If you are seeking a welcoming space to meet like-minded people, Kamula is your go-to. Operated by Ahjola, Kamula hosts free or low-cost activities that foster community and creativity. Their weekly schedules, shared on Instagram and Telegram, include book clubs, casual hangouts, and exercise sessions.
This holiday season, Kamula’s calendar is brimming with festive cheer. Join them for Christmas baking sessions, sing along to your favorite carols, or get creative in their jewelry-making workshop.
Staying Informed and Getting Involved
Sometimes it might feel like your Instagram feed is overflowing with events centered around alcohol but that is just a glimpse of the full range of events. Personally, I have enjoyed many sporty and cultural activities during my studies at Tampere University, and probably my favorite ones are all our outdoor experiences, such as ice skating or outdoor sauna events.
It can be difficult to navigate through all the different organizers. Events are provided by your own student association, the Student Union of Tampere University, TREY, and various clubs. Telegram channels and the intranet are excellent resources for staying updated on upcoming events.
Here are some tips for navigating the lively event selection at Tampere University:
–Kide app displays the majority of the events in the Tampere area
–TREY’s Community Event Calendar
–Telegram channel of TREY bulletin
–Sports Clubs at Tampere University
-The information channel of your own student association
Tampere’s student culture proves that fun, connection, and unforgettable experiences are accessible to everyone—with alcohol or without alcohol. So step out, explore, and make the most of your time in this vibrant city!
About the writers:
Hey there, I am Jessika, a first year M.A. student of Communications Studies. I love to experience and have fun in all aspects. Alongside my studies I practice Taekwon-Do, photography and sing in a choir. You might spot me participating in student events!
I am Heli, a first year Master’s student in International Relations. In my free time, I enjoy exploring nature, playing music, and spending time with friends. I am also passionate about international matters and eager to help especially foreign students feel more at home in Tampere and integrate into Finnish life.
Hi! I am Mystica, a first-year master’s student from India majoring in Biomedical Informatics. Whether it is hanging out with friends, singing in the choir or experimenting in the kitchen, I love making the most of my time. My first few months in Tampere have been an absolute blast, and I am so excited for what is yet to come!
