Tavastia Turns 40

Helsinki’s landmark Tavastia Club celebrated its 40th birthday Oct. 14 with a sellout show from Swedish band Imperial State Electric.

The 700-capacity building on Urho Kekkosen Katu street has at one time been on the itinerary of almost every act that’s broken through in the last four decades.

The actual building has stood since 1931 and is frequently used for entertainment, although it didn’t get named Tavastia Klubi until 1970.

It’s owned by the Tavastian student union of the University of Helsinki, but since 1991 it’s been rented and run by Juhani Merimaa, who also promotes the country’s Ruisrock and Ankkarock Festivals.