In 2026, Oulu will be the European Capital of Culture, which will put it at the centre of international attention. With hundreds of events and cultural programmes, meetings and congresses can be combined with experiences where northern nature, creativity and networking meet.
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A year of experiences in Oulu - what's in store for the European Capital of Culture 2026?
In 2026, Oulu and the entire Oulu2026 area will be pulsating with culture, art and experiences all year round, offering an unforgettable experience for both congress and conference guests and leisure visitors. Festivals, exhibitions and artworks will highlight the creativity and courage of the North - bringing together international stars, local artists and Arctic nature. The year kicks off with a sparkling start with the Ouluhall event on 31 December 2025. The year is changing: oulu2026 -where KUUMAA, pehmoaino, Goldielocks, Suvi Teräsniska and Ege Zulu will take to the stage.
Inspired by art and science
The Oulu2026 programme combines art, science and technology in a way that fosters creativity also in working life. For example Climate Clock artworks bring environmental issues to the fore in different parts of the region, and Oulu's network of museums and science centres provides interesting venues for both seminars and leisure. Visits to art exhibitions, media art productions or events organised with the University of Oulu and the University of Applied Sciences, for example, can enrich the programme of congress guests.
The stars of 2026:
Fotografiska Tallinn x Oulu2026
Shopping district in Pekuri 14.1.-12.2026. Photo exhibition PLAY brings Fotografiska to Finland for the first time.Korvamato - Media art from Kiasma
At Oulu City Hall from January 2026. Video art with sound and music at the centre - including works by Mika Taanila, Pipilotti Risti and Raakel Kuukka. The exhibition is free of charge and accessible.Climate Clock - art trail opens in June 2026
Seven permanent works in the Oulu area combine art, science and nature. The project emphasises environmental awareness and connection with nature.- Risk
The boundless, living Sámi culture is featured in a variety of ways in the Oulu2026 programme. There will be opera, concerts, visual arts and seminars. The annual highlight is the Sámi National Day on 6 February.
A feast of northern flavours through the Arctic Food Lab
Food is an essential part of a successful event. In Oulu's Capital of Culture year, northern flavours shine through in particular Arctic Food Labin via. It brings together the region's top kitchens, cafés and producers, offering flavours that come from the Arctic.
Visitors are attracted by the main events, such as Summer evening table setting, where food, culture and togetherness come together, and A taste adventure, which will lead you to taste local specialities. It's easy for the hosts to offer guests experiences that will leave a lasting impression on both the palate and the heart.
The best festivals and events of the Capital of Culture year
The European Capital of Culture year will bring an unprecedented number of events and experiences to Oulu and the entire Oulu2026 region. The programme has something for everyone - exciting festivals, international stars, original northern culture and innovative art experiences. Here are some of the most anticipated highlights of the year:
Highlights 2026:
- The year is changing: the Oulu2026 - a flying start
Ouluhall 31.12.2025 - with KUUMAA, pehmoaino, Goldielocks, Suvi Teräsniska and Ege Zulu. - Opening Festival 16.-18.1.2026
The whole centre of Oulu will be transformed into a festival area: main stages, pop-up performances, European venues and a programme for the whole family. - Europe's best festivals
The package brings together the best-known and newest festivals in Northern Finland in the Oulu2026 Capital of Culture year. Including the World Air Guitar Championships, the Art Ii Biennale and the electronic music festival Solstice. - Lumo Art & Tech Festival in November 2026
A celebration of art and technology built around the Festival of Light. Seminars, conferences and top international names in the centre of Oulu and on the Linnanmaa campus.
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