The Smiling Oulu 26 campaign has begun! New nine-language websites and active Facebook and Instagram channels now invite everyone to share joy and community spirit through smiles – in Finland and Spain!
Smiling Oulu 26 – The Campaign Is On! Join Us in Spreading Joy!
The Smiling Oulu 26 photo project has kicked off and received a warm welcome in both Oulu and the mountain town of Riogordo in southern Spain, where the idea was born.
The project is part of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture program and is rooted in humanity, connection, and community – all through the power of a smile.
We began in Oulu by photographing joyful, smiling people at Villa Victor and inviting interesting individuals we met – like Marina, seen smiling in the photo. We are now continuing the photo sessions in Riogordo, southern Spain.
We need lots of smiling faces for our social media campaign and website, as the project will run throughout 2026 – our goal is to fill our channels with joyful people!
Many wonderful individuals have already joined – people who want to support the campaign in their own way and show that diversity is something to celebrate.
The project now has its own brand-new nine-language website, designed to share information about Smiling Oulu 26 – because language should never be a barrier to participation.
Our social media channels are also live, so you can follow the journey, see behind the scenes – and most importantly, get involved.
We’ve launched our marketing early to be fully ready to start all activities on January 1st, 2026. An amazing and event-filled year lies ahead!
We’ve confirmed many key dates for 2026 and are working full steam to make the project a great success both in Finland and in Riogordo.
Coming up: a photo contest, online course, gala celebration, and several exhibitions in both countries.
Our website provides all essential information about the project and features touching portraits of people who have already contributed with their smile.
We aim to promote community spirit and spark reflection: Why do prejudices exist? How can we open our minds and change our patterns of thinking?
After all – we humans are, in the end, very much alike.
We warmly invite you to join us!
Send us a photo of yourself or a friend smiling.
These photos will be part of a campaign that spreads warmth and acceptance between people.
Everyone is welcome to participate.
Age, background, or experience doesn’t matter – what counts is a genuine smile.
We have zero tolerance for hate speech and are committed to creating a safe, positive platform where everyone can be seen and heard.
Join us – your smile might be the one that makes someone else smile too.
