It feels a bit stupid to categorize people by this way, but in the world it still looks like human rights are not balanced. In beginning of 80's, our ex president Tarja Halonen was working as chairwoman for SETA - Sexual equality Program. In 2010 media was writing she's a lesbian because of her past. Yes, media was interested on this. This might open you a bit about the quality of Finnish media...

 

But who cares? Gladly Helsinki is open minded and looking to the West in this case. Some parts of Finland are still keeping that East mentality alive, unfortunately. 

 

But it was Helsinki in the beginning of 2010. Now lots have changed. You can find amazing gay nightclubs from Helsinki such as Hercules, DTM and G Lounge & Skybar. Also smaller bars like Fairytale or Hugo's room - the trendy hipster bar. In Cavalier Café you can enjoy good coffee and baked goods as well as drinks - with bears! Mann's Street is the place for stand up comedy and karaoke. Keltainen Ruusu - sex shop - has dark rooms to discover.

 

 And during summer there are bear cruises organized - get your leather straps on and Ahoy! 

 

And how about Helsinki Pride? It's growing every year.

 

Probably there are plenty of other options as well but my knowledge ends here. You just have to dive in the scene and live it. I've never heard a gueer getting beated up in Helsinki, but in other parts of Finland it still happens. Viva la Helsinki!

 

And don't forget the Drag Bear Race! Also get to know the MSC Toms Club if you're into bear stuff. Homotekno for underground techno parties. 

​

See the map for LGBTQ places in Helsinki!

​

​

Share your tips!