Next-generation event venue Solar reaches topping-out stage – opening its doors in autumn 2027
The extension project at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre and an investment in the future, the next-generation event venue Solar, has reached its topping-out stage. Once completed, Solar will be one of the most modern event venues in the Nordic countries, taking events to a new level and strengthening Helsinki’s position as a destination for international events. Rising on Messuaukio square, Solar will be completed in August 2027. The event venue is being built by YIT.
Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre is carrying out one of the largest investments in Finland’s event industry. Solar is a next-generation event venue that, from autumn 2027 onwards, will host international corporate events and congresses, seminars, general meetings, product launches, celebrations and gala events, as well as other impactful gatherings.
“Solar will take events to a new level. It is not merely a new building, but part of a broader vision. Our goal is to strengthen Helsinki’s position as a destination for international events and to create an environment where events can deliver even more impactful experiences for participants,” says Veronica Lindholm, CEO of the Finnish Fair Corporation.
Thanks to its adaptability, Solar will also offer event organisers entirely new venue configurations and event settings. The new event venue will enable the facilities across the entire Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre property to be utilised in new ways.
“We want our customers to experience a real wow factor the moment they step into Solar. Around EUR 20 million will be invested in Solar, making it one of the largest development projects at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre,” Lindholm continues.
Digital technology becoming an even stronger part of events
Technology plays an increasingly important role in modern event production. There is growing demand for venues where digital solutions support both the brand experience and the overall event experience.
At Solar, digital solutions are not separate services but an integral part of the venue’s infrastructure. The event venue will feature 350 square metres of digital display surfaces across 14 screens, while the lighting system will include 70 moving lights.
The architecture is also one of the venue’s defining characteristics. Designed by Davidsson Tarkela Siren Architects, the venue is distinguished by its extensive glass façades and open, airy design. Rising to a height of more than ten metres, the building creates an exceptional sense of space. Natural daylight is a key feature of the opportunities the venue offers for events.
More information:
Pia Sievinen, communications & brand manager, Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, tel. +358 40 559 9155, pia.sievinen@messukeskus.com
Images of Messukeskus Solar are available for download here.
Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre is one of the largest event venues in the Nordics. It produces high-quality events and provides facilities and services for a wide range of events. The Finnish Fair Group includes, in addition to Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, the trade fair organiser Expomark Oy and the AV technology company SVV Oy. In 2025, the Group’s revenue was 60.5 million euros. The economic impact of Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre on the surrounding area was 304 million euros, and its employment impact was 4,140 person-years in 2025. I Messukeskus. The real social media. I messukeskus.com I @messukeskus
