‘A unique shopping experience’

FITCHBURG — The Finnish Center at Saima Park will once again host its annual outdoor marketplace and car cruise, this year to be held from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15, at the park, located at 67 Scott Road.

Shop for unique Nordic wares, books, music, Finnish breads and other baked goods, artwork, and handicrafts.

“In addition to many local artists and artisans, vendors will be coming from as far away as Pennsylvania to offer unique items such as Viking knives,” said Lorna Sulin, a member of the board of directors. “Find special Finnish and Scandinavian novelties and gifts such as glassware, jewelry, t-shirts, foods, and Christmas items.”

Artists will have their own originals, prints, photographs, and greeting cards for sale. Others will sell their handicrafts, including embroidery, felted items, hand-knitted socks, hats, mittens, scarves, baby afghans, and crocheted pieces, adorable gnomes, artisan soaps, local honey, beeswax candles and hand cream, to just name a few.

The Raivaijaa Foundation will have a large selection of books and music, as well as mugs and t-shirts for sale.

The Raivaijaa Foundation will have a large selection of books and music, as well as mugs and t-shirts for sale. Books will include fiction, nonfiction, and cookbooks.

Listen to the music of Christine Anderson and the Oivan Ilo folk group from noon until 12:45 p.m. and the Fitchburg State University Community Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Hildur Schilling from 1 until 2 p.m.

Local legend and accordionist Gibby Lashua will drive to Saima in his antique car to entertain us as well.

Enjoy a bowl of traditional Finnish salmon soup, loaded chicken noodle soup, or vegetarian chili; or have a hot dog. Hot and cold beverages, delicious Finnish coffee bread, and brownies will round out the menu.

“Be sure to visit the basket raffle and take a chance on winning a prize,” Sulin said. “Also, visitors are welcome to see our tiny – but impressive – library/museum and sauna museum. Both continue to evolve, with new acquisitions and changing exhibits.”

Marian June Flinkstrom has been busy reorganizing the library/museum with other volunteers and will be there to welcome visitors and chat about the collection. Some books that have been culled from the collection will be available for a donation.

“If you have a special vehicle, we hope you will show it off at our beautiful park,” Sulin added. “Antique and classic cars, pick-ups, motorcycles, and traveling saunas are all welcome.”

Admission and parking are free of charge.

A membership table will be available for those who would like to join the organization or renew their membership, which will be in effect through Sept. 30, 2025. Annual membership is $30 per adult 18 years and older. Membership is open to all.

“Fall is a great time to be outside, so come to our ‘Tori’ to enjoy a unique shopping experience, complete with music, food, and classic cars,” Sulin said.

Vendors interested in renting a table may contact Linda Byrne at 978-343-7933.

For more information about the Finnish Center, visit saima-park.org or visit them on Facebook at Friends of Saima Park.