Eastern Finland holds a treasure – the hidden gem – the enchanting Lake Saimaa with its pure nature. Saimaa engages all senses with its fresh wilderness, captivating silence, clean water, endless forests and the welcoming Eastern Finnish culture. For us, gastronomy is an everyday luxury as our forests and lakes serve us the purest food in the world. The largest lake in Finland is loved by many and several million guests visit the Saimaa region annually. Its cleansing waters and many bridges connect shores, towns, villages and people. People living in this area are known for their perseverance and hospitality. There is always room for guests at the table and food is a matter of honour for eastern Finnish hosts. Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy covers the three regions of Eastern Finland: South Savo, South Karelia and North Karelia. Our cuisine is based on seasonal harvests. We still have the skills of living in perfect harmony with nature. The long, white nights of the north create the perfect conditions for growing pure, aromatic ingredients. The forests of Saimaa are a treasure trove of wild vegetables, berries and mushrooms, full of rich flavours. In the Saimaa region, we have found creativity as a resource in beautiful and favourable, as well as in harsh conditions. In the European Region of Gastronomy year 2024, we aspire to combine food with art and culture in ways never seen before. That’s why our culture is unique – and worth discovering.