The Aleksis Kivi Square and Spider Plot located next to the Turku City Theatre by the Aurajoki river have acted as the venue for many events held in the Turku city centre.

This venue, located in Turku city centre, includes the terrace square of the Turku City Theatre as well as the car park next to it, also known as the “spider plot”. “Spider Plot” gets its nickname from Outi Sarjakoski’s ”Network”, a work of art resembling a giant spiderweb that has been woven across the hole excavated in the Samppalinna rock.

Many public events have been held in the Aleksis Kivi Square, including the music festival Down By The Laituri. Beach volleyball tournaments have also been held at the venue. During Turku’s Night of the Arts Festival, the stage built on the square featured performances such as a concert by the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra. In 2018, the launch party of Satumainen Aurajoki, a work of light art, was held in the Aleksis Kivi Square.

Capacity: 1,000–2,000, depending on structures

Area: 2,200 m2

Rent: EUR 0–700/event (depending on the nature of the event)

The venue is suitable for: Open events, Closed events, Commercial promotions, Large events, Concerts, Concerts with a high noise level, Arts events, Markets, Sports events

Transport links and parking: The venue is located near Turku city centre.

Practical considerations:

  • The venue is currently being renovated, and the venue’s details are subject to change.
  • The LED screen of the Turku City Theatre may be available for use if circumstances allow.
  • The venue may be used for a maximum of one large festival per summer (the city will commission a noise propagation model).
  • Sun–Thu until 10 p.m., Fri–Sat until 1 a.m. in a tent.
  • Event organisers must take into account the Turku City Theatre, roads, traffic control and the restaurant ships.

Availability of water and electricity: Water and electricity available from the supply bollards. The Turku City Theatre can provide more information about the availability of water and electricity in Aleksis Kivi Square.

Location on a map

Additional information: City of Turku Event Services