Finnish Youth

 Salolampi is the name of the Finnish Language Village.

At Salolampi, you’ll learn Finnish in a traditional summer camp setting. Language classes are tailored to learners of all ages and stages. Whether you’re looking for an early introduction or an intensive language program, we’ll meet your level of language and help you to advance during a 1, 2 or 4 week session.

First, a friendly staff member will greet you in Finnish and help you go through “customs” and select a Finnish name. From that moment on, Finnish will be incorporated into every daily activity — from summer camp favorites like canoeing, swimming, and soccer, to culturally authentic Finnish activities like kyykkä (Karelian skittles), pesäpallo (Finnish style baseball) and kankaankudonta (loom weaving).

At Salolampi, you can participate in sports such as kyykkä (Karelian skittles) and jalkapallo (soccer). In addition to swimming or canoeing, you’ll enjoy trying your hand at tuohenpunota (birchbark crafts) or kankaankudonta (loom weaving). Sing, act or dance at the ulkoilmalava (pavilion). Personalized, hands-on learning activities give you fun opportunities to learn and practice new vocabulary as native and expert speakers introduce you to modern Finland.

Salolampi villagers love following the popular Finnish practice of enjoying the village’s sauna, followed by a plunge into Turtle River Lake or — depending upon the season — a roll in the snow. If you come during one of our winter programs, you may even get to try out favorite Finnish activities like cross-country skiing. No matter which Salolampi program you select, you’ll be immersed in Finnish language and culture from the moment you arrive. Our goal is to provide an environment in which you find the courage and confidence to explore Finnish language and culture. We will use gestures, repetition, songs, and games to make sure you know what to do, where to go, and what’s going on from the moment you arrive. And, with constant help and support from our dedicated staff, you’ll be amazed by how quickly you learn — even if you are brand new to the Finnish language.

Your time at Salolampi’s beautiful wooded, lakefront site will give you the chance to live like the Finns, who typically spend a lot of time outdoors walking, swimming and boating. You’ll have opportunities to swim, canoe, play soccer, sing Finnish songs, learn about Finnish music, and try a variety of arts and crafts. We offer a variety of choices to please every taste, and we never get bored!

Salolampi has a relaxed atmosphere. You won’t need much more than shorts, T-shirts, a swimsuit, long pants, and warm sweatshirts. You’ll have the opportunity to dress up for a few events if you wish, such as Restaurant Night.

Fast Facts:

Village: Salolampi
Borders: Turtle River Lake
Population: 85 Villagers
Language: Finnish
Currency: Euros
Time Zone: CDT (Daylight Savings)

Want to know more about Salolampi?
·Visit our Village Page to see pictures and videos of last year’s villagers and camp activities.

Summer Villages Session Choices:
· One- and two-week sessions 
· Four-week sessions: high school credit for students entering grades 9 through 12