Registration is now open for the Helsinki Basketball Festival 2027, taking place in Helsinki, Finland, from 14 to 16 May 2027.
Building on previous editions of the festival, which have brought together large numbers of Finnish and international teams, Helsinki YMCA is once again inviting YMCA teams from across Europe and beyond to join a weekend of competitive basketball, international exchange and shared experiences.
The 2026 edition welcomed 168 teams and included international participation across several age categories, as well as the YMCA European Championship U15. The festival welcomed teams from YMCA Thessaloniki, YMCA Germany, and beyond, creating a vibrant atmosphere that highlighted both the competitive spirit of the game and the values that make basketball a force for good.
The festival also builds on a growing connection with the FIBA Foundation and its Basketball For Good approach. During the 2026 edition, this collaboration introduced activities promoting fair play, inclusion and safe sport, including a Basketball for Good quiz, a Safe Sport Promise wall and the concept of a FIBA Foundation Fair Play Award. These elements helped position the festival not only as a competition, but also as a space where basketball supports positive youth development.
The 2027 tournament will include girls’ and boys’ U8–U16 categories and Unified Basketball. U15 YMCA teams will also compete for the YMCA European Championship title, with separate competitions for girls and boys.
International YMCA teams receive a 10% discount on tournament passes, with different options covering playing rights, school accommodation and meals.
Beyond the games, tournament participants will have free admission to Linnanmäki amusement park, with the possibility to purchase ride wristbands at a special Helsinki Basketball Festival price. Visits will be organised around match schedules and park opening hours.
Erasmus+ youth exchange opportunity
YMCA teams can also express interest in an Erasmus+ youth exchange from 10 to 16 May 2027, organised alongside the tournament. The exchange offers participants the opportunity to join the festival, with possible financial support towards travel costs, subject to Erasmus+ funding approval.
- Dates: 14–16 May 2027
- Location: Helsinki, Finland
- Registration: Open now
- Tournament information and registration: https://www.helsinkibasketballfestival.fi/en
Questions about YMCA discounts, accommodation or travel: helsinkibasketballfestival@hnmky.fi
Erasmus+ youth exchange contact: hanna.koivunen@hnmky.fi
The Helsinki Basketball Festival offers YMCA teams the opportunity to close the season through competition, international exchange and shared experiences with young people from across Europe. Teams interested in taking part are encouraged to register early and explore the available tournament and Erasmus+ options for 2027.
