International House South Karelia newsletter
How to Survive Winter in South Karelia?
Warm and cheerful throughout the dark season
At our “Welcome to Lappeenranta” event, newcomers learned how to thrive during the dark season: dress in layers, wear proper shoes, use reflectors, and stay active and social. Find seasonal tips also at infofinland.fi: Finnish climate.
In this newsletter, we share highlights from early autumn and tips for a vibrant winter in South Karelia. Share this newsletter with someone who might find it useful!
Autumn Highlights
Over 200 participants have joined our International House autumn events to explore career paths, local services, and leisure activities.
The events have been organized in collaboration with various actors, and a wide range of services in the region have been on display, from language training to public transport and from library to organizational activities.
Thanks to all volunteers, partners, and attendees, you are the heart of IHSK!
See photos from the August Opening here: International House Etelä-Karjala avajaiset 29.8.2025
Follow us on social media for more highlights!
“South Karelia is becoming more international – and that’s a wonderful thing. We need international talent now and in the future”
– Sanna Natunen, Employment Director (excerpt from the International House opening speech)
Upcoming Events & Activities
Career Club @ Kulttuuritila Nuijamies
Oct 22 & Nov 19 | 17:00–19:00
Open to all: students and professionals alike!
Friday Babbles @ Yhteisötalo (Community house) Lappeenranta
Every other Friday at 14-16: meet locals, share stories, and learn over coffee.
Finnish Language Practice
Join Heikintalo group or Luetaan yhdessä sessions in Imatra & Lappeenranta
Find a Hobby!
Stay active this winter via the South Karelia hobby calendar and event calendar or explore tips on our website.
See all International House events in the South Karelia event calendar: International House South Karelia.
Check out GoSaimaa website or VisitLappeenranta and City of Lappeenranta on social media for local tips, events, and hidden gems!
Are you new to South Karelia? Discover our Welcome service!
Meet with our integration specialist (1–3 times) to get free of charge personalized guidance. This service may be for you if you have recently moved to South Karelia and need information about the services and opportunities in the area.
Contact us via email, phone, or visit our advisory points in Imatra or Lappeenranta. Contact details here: International House South Karelia - Lappeenranta.
Next Welcome Event: History & Culture of Lappeenranta region
Nov 5 | 16.30-18 | Limited spots! Free of charge | More information and registrations: History & Culture of Lappeenranta region
Service Point Relocation
We’re preparing to move our Lappeenranta service point from IsoKristiina shopping centre to the Government Building (Virastotalo) in December. Stay tuned for updates!
News from the Network
Easy to Join Exercise - Sports for All
Developed by the City of Lappeenranta for internationals, this program offers accessible sports and outdoor activities for adults, children, and seniors either free or at the lowest cost.
Find energy for winter with water aerobics, ballgames, gym sessions, or even women-only swimming hours. Many activities are beginner-friendly and require no registration.
Whether you're just starting or already experienced, explore all options via the local sports calendar or at the Easy to join Exercise webpage.
Connect with International Working Women of Finland (IWWOF) - Lappeenranta Chapter
Join a welcoming community of more that 11 000 women with international backgrounds from all over Finland (suomalaiset naiset, erityisesti paluumuuttajat, ovat lämpimästi tervetulleita)!
IWWOF offers support, networking, and casual meetups like book clubs and language cafés. No membership fee, just bring your curiosity and kindness.
🔗 Learn more | 📧 Contact: Anna Nikitina – anikitina0404@gmail.com
Stay in touch!
Website: International House South Karelia (lappeenranta.fi/en)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578105784504
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/internationalsouthkarelia/
Subscribe to the newsletter via https://www.epressi.com/liittyminen/lappeenrannan-kaupunki-tiedotetilaus to get future updates via e-mail.
The International House operating model is part of the South Karelia Employment Area's services. Information for individual customers, employers and entrepreneurs can be found here: South Karelia Employment Area (lappeenranta.fi/en)
Want to share your event, course, or service with internationals in South Karelia? Our next newsletter will be published in December. Please send your materials (in Finnish and English) by December 10th via link QuestBack.
We also encourage local actors to publish their services related to integration at the renewed fintegrate.fi webpage.