Ilosaari Island briefly in English
Ilosaari (ilo=joy, saari=island) is a recreation area located in the city centre of Joensuu. As a meeting place Ilosaari has long traditions; various activities and events have been organized since the 19th century. The Island is owned by the city of Joensuu.
One essential feature for Ilosaari is the lagoon that was built in the 1950s, as was the the great building of Karjalantalo (Karjala=Karelia, talo=house). Nowadays, Karjalantalo is occupied by the restaurant Kerubi and Degree Programme in Music of North Karelia university of Applied Sciences.
One of the several public beaches of Joensuu is located in Ilosaari, with the changing rooms. Sadly, there are no lifeguards in the beach so a swimmer should remember cautiousness. Lavatories located outdoors are in use during the summertime.
Arriving to the Ilosaari couldn't be much easier; one can choose a car, bike, or feet. Parking lot is located right next to the Karjalantalo, and there is room for forty cars.
Rapids (East and West) surrounding Ilosaari are great places for fishing. When water is warm enough, the backwater located in the South end of the island can be used for catching pikes and perches.
In the springtime it is possible to see canoeists in the rapids of Ilosaari, thanks to the great location and relative calm of the rapids. Moreover, the lagoon is a famous rest area for canoeists; the landing could not get any easier.
Various events taking place in Ilosaari bring color to Joensuu, despite the season. Events such as ice swimming competition, Ilovaarirock (elders listening to the rock), Vekararock (kids listening to the rock), Lehtiä Ilosaaressa (studens listening to the rock) and Hurtta-spectacle are examples about the activities taken place in Ilosaari, just to name but a few. Moreover, one of the most famous Finnish rock festivals, Ilosaarirock, was originally organized in Ilosaari.
Restaurant Kerubi located in Karjalantalo is one great place to enjoy good food and live music. Kerubi Hall is one of the greatest gig places in Finland and Kerubi Kitchen serves tasty lunch in weekdays and delicious à la carte dishes in the evenings and weekends. During weekends, the downstairs functions as a famous nightclub.
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