Language Cafe in Hämeenlinna and Valkeakoski
Looking for a relaxed way to practice Finnish and meet new people?
Language Cafe brings internationals and locals together for easygoing conversations and some coffee. No pressure, no classes — just people talking and getting to know each other.
What is Language Café?
Language Café is a relaxed meeting place organized by HAMK together with local partners. It brings internationals and locals together to chat, meet new people, and practice Finnish in an easygoing way.
Who is it for?
Everyone is welcome — students, student spouses and close circles, and people living in the region. This is not a class, but a social space to connect and feel part of the community.
Do I need to speak Finnish well?
No. All language levels are welcome. We usually split into small groups: one group for more advanced Finnish conversation, and another focusing on basic Finnish using simple games or materials. Things are kept simple, and listening only is also perfectly fine.
Where and when does it happen?
- Hämeenlinna: weekly, alternating between the City Library and the University Centre
- Valkeakoski: every other week, with changing locations between HAMK Valkeakoski Campus and Culture Centre Luova.
Please check the dates, times, and places before coming.
What should I expect?
Small conversation groups, a relaxed atmosphere, and coffee or tea. There is no registration and no participation fee.
Why should locals join?
It’s a great chance to meet international people locally and enjoy an international atmosphere. Finnish speakers can also practice English or other shared languages while helping others understand Finnish words and expressions.
Are there other Finnish practice opportunities at HAMK?
Yes. Different Finnish practice sessions for students and their families will be available during the spring. the information will be shared Within HAMK in Viva engage, get updates on upcoming events in your campus specific groups:
Language Cafe Hämeenlinna
When: Every Thursday, 16:30–17:30 between January 15th – March 26th
Where: Alternating between Hämeenlinna Main Library(Lukiokatu 2, 13100 ) and Hämeenlinna University Centre (Vankanlähde 9, 13100, )
Schedule:
• 15 Jan – Main Library
• 22 Jan – Hämeenlinna University Centre
• 29 Jan – Main Library
• 5 Feb – Hämeenlinna University Centre
• 12 Feb – Main Library
• 19 Feb – Hämeenlinna University Centre
• 5 Mar – Main Library
• 12 Mar – Hämeenlinna University Centre
• 19 Mar – Main Library
• 26 Mar – Hämeenlinna University Centre
Language Cafe Valkeakoski
When: Every other week, on Tuesdays, 17:00–18:00 20 January – 28 April
Where: Alternating between Culture Centre Luova (Kauppilankatu 2, 37600)
and HAMK Valkeakoski Campus(Tietotie 1, 37630)
Schedule:
• 20 Jan – Culture Centre Luova
• 3 Feb – HAMK Valkeakoski Campus
• 17 Feb – Culture Centre Luova
• 3 Mar – HAMK Valkeakoski Campus
• 17 Mar – Culture Centre Luova
• 31 Mar – HAMK Valkeakoski Campus
• 14 Apr – Culture Centre Luova
• 28 Apr – HAMK Valkeakoski Campus
Questions or comments?
Feel free to contact us at Career.services@hamk.fi, we’re happy to help and share more information!
