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Code vs. Culture: Navigating the Constraints of Public Sauna Regulations
This presentation is a sub-section of the research completed for the Finlandia Foundation grant awarded for "Practical Primer for Public (Finnish) Sauna Design." Sauna culture continues to grow in popularity across the United States, yet building codes, zoning rules, and other regulations in many regions make it difficult—or impossible—to operate a public Finnish sauna with authentic löyly. These regulations differ significantly from those in Finland, where public sauna is wi
Feb 19


On the Move: Inside the World of Mobile Saunas
Join us for a moving panel exploring what it truly takes to build, own, and operate a mobile sauna—and the many business models that bring sauna to people wherever they are. From saunas that travel directly to clients, to those parked at beaches or events, to mobile units operating in urban environments or roaming the countryside, this session dives into the logistics, creativity, and problem-solving behind löyly on wheels. Panelists will discuss permits and city partnerships
Feb 15


Mobile Sauna Insurance 101: Protecting Your Business on the Road
Running a mobile sauna business—or thinking about starting one? Wondering how to protect your investment, your clients, and yourself? Join us for Mobile Sauna Insurance 101. This practical, operator-focused panel covers the essentials of insuring a sauna-on-wheels, including what coverage mobile sauna businesses need, how to properly value and insure your sauna, trailer, and equipment, and common pitfalls to avoid. Drawing on real-world examples from mobile sauna operators ac
Feb 15


Rising Tides: Inside the World of Floating Saunas
Join us for a special conversation with five key voices from the floating sauna world across the U.S. and Europe—including perspectives connected to Oslo, often called the floating sauna capital, and Oulu, Europe’s Capital of Culture 2026. The panel brings together sauna operators alongside individuals deeply embedded in directing projects, stewarding movements, and shaping floating sauna culture more broadly. Together, they’ll explore the mechanics of building, operating, an
Feb 15


The State of the Sauna Union: An Overview of the Sauna Business Market in North America
North America is discovering sauna in new and exciting ways! Join Justin Juntunen of Cedar and Stone Sauna and Alan Jalasjää , podcast host of Kivia Sauna and sauna expert, take a deep dive into the growing sauna market across the continent. Together, they’ll uncover regional trends, innovative developments, and growth opportunities in the burgeoning sauna market. This discussion will delve into the evolving role of public saunas, bathhouses, and wellness providers, offering
Feb 18, 2025


Sauna Diplomacy Across the Atlantic
For decades, Finnish diplomats have used the sauna as a unique way to bring together contacts from government, media, think tanks, and business to experience this distinctive part of Finnish culture while discussing current affairs. What started as informal gatherings was later formalized with the founding of the Diplomatic Sauna Society in Washington, DC, in 2008. The society quickly gained popularity, expanding to countries around the world. In this discussion, Press Counse
Feb 17, 2025


A View from the International Sauna Association
Risto Elomaa , President of the International Sauna Association, brings a global perspective to the sauna tradition. In his talk, he explores the evolving role of sauna culture worldwide, from its deep historical roots in Finland to its growing popularity and adaptations in diverse regions. Risto highlights the ways different countries interpret and integrate sauna into their wellness practices while discussing the importance of preserving authentic sauna traditions. As an ad
Feb 16, 2025
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