Replacing the similar themed series Pelin henki (1993) (aired 1993-1994 and 1996-1997), "Pelikaani" premiered on YLE TV2 channel on Tuesday, January 3, 1995. Hosted by Kari Tyni and/or Saara Karhu, "Pelikaani" aired two times a week: the main ~25-minute episode aired on Tuesdays focusing on talk show segments, personal profiles and musical guests, while the ~10-minute companion episode aired on Fridays, focusing on Finnish sports betting tips and odds.

The last episode featuring a musical guest was aired on May 30, and from June 6 to August 1, 1995 on Tuesdays, the series was known with the summer title "Pelikaani esittää", including personal profiles of athletes. "Pelikaani" aired only Tuesdays after the companion series "Pelivihjeet" (aired 1992-1993 and 1995-1997) took the Friday time slot on August 18, 1995. The last "Pelikaani" (at the time) was a compilation episode, aired on December 12, 1995 when, in turn, Pelin henki (1993) replaced "Pelikaani" for the 1996 season. "Pelikaani" still briefly returned for the 1997 season: four episodes were shown from January 8 to 29, and a special episodes (Finnish title: Pelikaani - Jääkiekon MM-special) focusing on the 1997 Ice Hockey World Championships were aired between March 12 and April 16, 1997.