First of May picnic in any weather

Story: Anni Pajari, Photo: Mari Mansikkamäki

In the middle of Jyväskylä, the Harju ridge is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and an outdoor area dear to many Jyväskylä residents. The place has been a sports and recreation center for the citizens since the late 19th century.

JYY’s Member Services Secretary Eetu Heiska moved to Jyväskylä to study in 2008. He has been practicing sports in Harju, but the most important memories have to do with various student activities. Among other things, sled hill with other subject organization actors during the winter and organizing activity tasks for students. Also, the most important celebration of the student’s year is traditionally located in Harju.

“First of May picnics spent here either in sunshine or cold rain are kind of collective memories for students. The atmosphere is always cheerful and relaxed, with good friends and carefully prepared snacks.”

The Harju evening song, played from top of the Harju already for decades, is important to Eetu.

“The type of shared experience of the evening song is attractive.”

The text has been published in Kylä-Magazine 2/2021.

More News

We are looking for a Content Creator

, / 20.4.2026

Are you a Soihtu resident who knows their way around TikTok short videos and social media trends? Would you like to build your communications experience and get paid for it, too? We are once again looking for social media –savvy tenants who...

Tenants’ Info Letter of April

, / 7.4.2026

Tenants of Soihtu receive a newsletter about the current housing topics every month. The newsletter is sent to the email address found in our system and provided by the tenant. In this month’s Tenant’s Info Letter, more info...

How Students Apply for Housing from Soihtu – Student Housing Guide for Beginners

, / 26.3.2026

Planning to study in Jyväskylä? We want to warmly welcome you and give you an overview of the choices students typically make when applying for housing. The statistics show which locations are the most popular and what types of apartments are in...