From June 9 to 11, 2026, the international wellness community gathered in Jyväskylä, Finland, for the latest edition of the World Sauna Forum. Covering the event for EuroSpaPoolNews, Export Account Manager Katerina Vasak met with manufacturers, designers, and wellness experts to explore the latest developments influencing the pool, spa, and sauna sectors.

How the sauna reconnects people with well-being, human connections, and sustainable lifestyles

The forum opened with a central theme that resonated throughout the event: Happiness. Rather than focusing solely on products or technologies, the discussions explored how wellness environments can contribute to healthier, more balanced lifestyles. Here are some photos.

The opening Fireside Chat with author and Sauna Aid co-founder Mikkel Aaland highlighted the cultural significance of the Finnish sauna and its growing influence on wellness projects around the world. His presentation underlined the importance of preserving authentic sauna traditions while adapting them to contemporary lifestyles. The second day focused on the commercial and technical aspects of the industry.

A few unforgettable moments from Sauna Village and Himos Sauna Yard , captured by Katerina Vasak, Export Account Manager at EuroSpaPoolNews, during the World Sauna Forum 2026

The Sauna & Wellness Market, together with the matchmaking sessions and workshops, brought together manufacturers, distributors, architects, hotel operators, and pool professionals from across Europe and beyond.
At the World Sauna Forum, Harvia demonstrated that it was a leading generation of sauna culture. A visit to its production facilities offered participants an opportunity to see how one of the industry's leading manufacturers combines industrial-scale production with high-quality standards and environmental responsibility.

The final day took participants beyond the conference venue and into the heart of the Jyväskylä region through a press tour organised by Visit Jyväskylä Region and Sauna from Finland. The programme began at the Aalto2 Museum Centre, where Finnish architecture and design illustrate the country's long-standing commitment to functionality and simplicity.
Participants then visited the Sauna Village, discovering historic smoke saunas and traditional wooden buildings that preserve centuries of Finnish sauna heritage.

The tour concluded at Himos Sauna Yard, where visitors experienced a wide variety of sauna concepts, from authentic smoke saunas to contemporary panoramic models such as Kirami's FinnVision.

The World Sauna Forum 2026 once again demonstrated why Finland remains a global reference for sauna culture and wellness innovation.
For pool and spa professionals, the event provided valuable inspiration for developing projects that combine authenticity, quality craftsmanship, sustainable design, and premium customer experiences. 

Katerina Vasak brought us some photos of the event.