population: 47,468 million

extension: 2,730.30 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Kokkola, Finland and interested in visiting museums, I would recommend the following places:

1. The K.H. Renlund Museum: This museum is located in Kokkola and has a diverse collection of artwork from different eras. You can see paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces.

2. The Tankar Island Lighthouse Museum: If you're willing to travel a bit, you can visit the Tankar Island Lighthouse Museum, which is about 40 km northwest of Kokkola. It's an interesting museum that showcases the history and technology behind lighthouses.

3. The Pietarsaari Museum: Another option is to visit the Pietarsaari Museum, which is about 25 km south of Kokkola. It has a variety of exhibits that focus on the local history and culture of the region.

If you're looking for similar places to visit near Kokkola, you might also want to check out the Finnish Aviation Museum in Vantaa (about 500 km south), or the Turku Art Museum in Turku (about 300 km southwest).

Food

Kokkola, like many other parts of Finland, has a rich culinary tradition. Here are some dishes that are popular and recommended by locals:

1. Kalakukko: This is a traditional Finnish dish that originated in the Savonia region but is also enjoyed in Kokkola. It's a fish pie made with rye flour, potatoes and usually perch or pike.

2. Lihapullat: Meatballs are a staple in Finnish cuisine and are often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

3. Hernekeitto: A hearty soup made from dried peas, pork or beef, carrots and onions. It's typically served on Thursdays across Finland.

4. Mustikkapiirakka: This is a blueberry pie made with a shortcrust pastry base and a sweet blueberry filling.

5. Karjalanpaisti: A traditional Karelian stew made with beef, pork or lamb, root vegetables, and spices.

6. Rosolli: This is a traditional Finnish salad made with boiled beets, pickles, carrots and potatoes, often served with herring or meat.

7. Korvapuusti: Cinnamon buns are a favorite sweet treat for Finns, often enjoyed with coffee.

These are just a few examples of the delicious traditional dishes you can find in Kokkola and throughout Finland.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people in Kokkola, Finland enjoy:

1. Visit Neristan: This is the old town of Kokkola with wooden buildings and a charming atmosphere. It's a popular spot for taking a stroll, having a coffee or lunch, and admiring the beautiful architecture.

2. Attend a Festive Event: Kokkola hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Kokkola Winter Accordion Festival, the Kokkola Cup youth soccer tournament, and Kokkolan Venetsialaiset (Harbor festival). These events draw large crowds and offer a chance to experience Finnish culture and traditions.

3. Explore the Kokkola Archipelago: The archipelago around Kokkola has many small islands that are perfect for a day trip or overnight camping. There are also guided boat tours available for visitors who want to explore the area while learning about its history and nature.

4. Winter Sports: During the winter months, locals enjoy outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, ice-skating, and sledding. There are plenty of trails and rinks available for enthusiasts of all levels.

5. Kokkola Market Square: The market square is a bustling hub of activity where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and other local products. It's an ideal place to grab a snack, shop for souvenirs, or simply people-watch.

I hope these suggestions give you some ideas for fun activities to try out in Kokkola!