Finland crowns the warmest embrace of nature

TreeHugging World Championships 2025: Levi becomes the heart of a unique, nature-loving competition

On August 23, 2025, the HaliPuu forest in Levi, Finnish Lapland, will host the 6th annual TreeHugging World Championships. Participants from around the globe will compete in three disciplines – with heart, humour, and a deep connection to nature.

More than just a contest

Organised since 2020 by the HaliPuu family and supported by local nature tourism companies Greentrek and Finnomenal, the event symbolises mindfulness, appreciation, and the bond between humans and trees. This year’s edition also marks the start of the National Finnish Tree Hugging Week.

The competition categories

• Speedhugging – hug as many trees as possible in 60 seconds (at least 5 sec per tree)
• Dedication – the most heartfelt hug of a single tree (max. 60 sec)
• Freestyle – the most creative embrace, in any style (max. 60 sec)

The overall winner will be crowned TreeHugging World Champion 2025.

How to join – in person or online

The live event kicks off on August 23 at 12:00 CET and will be streamed on halipuu.com/treehuggingworldchampionships.
Tickets for on-site spectators are limited.

From August 9 to 30, nature lovers worldwide can take part online:
Hug your favourite tree, snap a photo, share it with #TreeHugging2025 and @HaliPuu on Instagram or Facebook, and tell why the tree is special.

The online winner will be invited to the 2026 championship with a one-week stay for two in Levi.

More on the TreeHugging World Championship in Finland

Header: © James Thornton GreenTrek