On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the Air Guitar World Championships kicked off with Airientation, hosted for the second time at the World Music School AIR in Oulu. With over 100 participants, both local and international, the day once again proved how air guitar brings together community, creativity, and cultural exchange.

The program opened with the Airlympics, a playful tournament featuring Finnish-style party sports like boot tossing and hobby-horse riding. This year’s hobby-horse champion was Airguityler from New Zealand, while the boot toss winner Nordic Thunder added a surprise twist by inviting SUDO-Chan from Japan to throw an old Nokia phone in a bonus round. SUDO-Chan went on to take second place in the World Championships.

One of the highlights of the day was a mass synchronized air guitar windmill attempt to “Rock Lobster,” as dozens of participants moved together in chaotic harmony. Inside the school, visitors explored early plans for the upcoming Air Guitar Museum and joined a peace flag workshop, reflecting the ongoing mission to Make Air Not War.

As night fell, the school hosted a community dinner prepared by Lloyd “Stonehenge” Weema, creating a cosy space for conversation, song, and shared meals. After dinner, guests gathered around the campfire, listened to a live performance by Luna Vesania, and relaxed in a tent sauna constructed by Kesän Sauna — a perfect way to unwind in true Finnish style.

The evening closed with an exclusive preview screening of the documentary “Make Air Not War,” capturing the global air guitar movement’s deeper meaning of peace, expression, and connection.

A special thank you to Kesän Sauna for providing the temporary sauna at our welcome event for all the air guitarists competing in the Air Guitar World Championships – Ilmakitaransoiton MM-kisat.
Thanks for helping us welcome individuals from around the world and giving them the opportunity to experience a beloved Finnish cultural tradition.
Kiitos!

Airientation 2025 reaffirmed a growing tradition rooted in international friendship, artistic freedom, and shared joy. The World Music School AIR is proud to carry this tradition forward in Oulu, building a home for invisible instruments and real community.

Pedro Aibéo
29.08.2025