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Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026

Culture, art and a wide range of events as well as world-class experiences from near and far are taking over our northern region. See the events!

Summer events

More events

Coming up

Best Festivals in Europe!

Oulu2026 region offers a unique perspective on northern festivals. These events range from veteran machinery days to Irish music, from poetry weeks to electronic music festival on top of a hill
See the upcoming festivals

Climate Clock Opening

13th June
Oulu region
Six permanent artworks are revealed in June. The opening will be celebrated in each artwork location in Oulu, Yli-Ii, Kiiminki, Haukipudas, Ylikiiminki and Oulunsalo.
See the openings schedule

The northern summer everyone
is talking about

On the northern coast of Finland, the vibrant seaside city of Oulu invites you to experience a summer where world-class art, unforgettable festivals and beautiful northern nature come together. 
See the events

PLAY – Fotografiska Tallinn X Oulu2026

14 Jan – 31 Dec
Oulu
Fotografiska Tallinn brings a photography exhibition to Finland for the very first time! The high-quality exhibition is inspired by the Oulu2026 main theme, cultural climate change.
Read more & buy tickets

News

Aerial view of Oulu and Pikisaari island in the autumn

Tips for Arctic Midsummer
Image from the flying sand cliff on the Ärjä Island Picture: Ia Samoil

Ärjä Art Festival invites you to the middle of Lake Oulujärvi to enjoy contemporary art and ecological themes

From our programme partners
Photo: Visit Raahe

Raahe Prepares a Multi-Day Oulu2026 Closing Week – Stam1na to Headline the New Stormy Sounds Metal Event

From our programme partners
Cultural Centre Valve. Photo: Konsta Vähäkuopus

The Cultural Centre Valve’s exhibition programme welcomes visitors all summer long

From our programme partners
More news
Aerial view of Oulu city centre in winter.

Welcome to Oulu!

Planning to visit us? Find out how to travel to Oulu, where to book accommodation, and which exciting events are in store for 2026.

Plan your visit

Oulu2026 Merch available!

Find the coolest clothing and accessories for every season from our online store

Visit our store
man standing on a green field

Like Finland in miniature

Together with 39 municipalities, Oulu is European Capital of Culture 2026. Our wonderful region provides a versatile range of events of different sizes and styles, for their creators and visitors. There are cities and villages, parks and paths, and lovely nature nearby almost everywhere.

Explore Oulu2026 Region & events
Rautatieasema junilla ja matkustajilla lumisena päivänä.
Kaleva Media logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo
Piparkakkutalo ja joulupukki joulukoristeena
Käsivarsinauhalla kävelijä yöllä metsässä
Mustavalkoinen kuva autotallista ja autosta
Osuuskauppa Arinan vihreä logo

See also

Welcome to OuluPlan your stay
Frequently Asked QuestionsOulu2026 facts in a nutshell
Oulu2026 TeamContact our staff